Trojans Battle Semester Finals and Bowl Game Preparation

The USC Trojans are back out on the practice field this weekend, following a few days off in the middle of the week, Steve Sarkisian's program knows who they are facing both in the classroom and on the field. Fall semester finals are in full swing and the challenges of a tough academic curriculum finish up on Wednesday.

Sarkisian mentioned that practice was a nice "getaway" from all the stress, and the energy at Cromwell Field (moved because of heavy rain) remained fast and explosive. Some of the players missed sessions studying for big exams, but the pulse of the practice was positive --especially from those not typically in the starting lineup. These next few weeks of practice serve as an excellent opportunity to build for the future.

For example, linebacker Lamar Dawson is working his way back on the practice field. Josh Shaw continues to be tested in practice, and has improved his feel for the game because of that work. Max Browne, who could start next year if Cody Kessler declares for the NFL Draft, has been getting added reps against USC's base defense.

The tempo remains upbeat, and that would be expected as more guys that were traditional scout team guys get some looks on both sides of the football. In the meantime, the Trojans now begin some basic instillation of the physical brand of football the Nebraska Cornhuskers will look to impart in the Holiday Bowl.

Learn more about how the Trojans are embracing fall semester exams along with the hard-hitting Cornhuskers coming up on December 27 at Qualcolmm Stadium.