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Late last night head coach Clay Helton announced the captains for the USC Trojans 2017 campaign. The list includes:
QB Sam Darnold
S Chris Hawkins
OLB Uchenna Nwosu
ILB Cameron Smith
Proud to have such a dynamic group of men leading our football family on and off the field this season! #FightOn pic.twitter.com/AZEfS0Flul
— Clay Helton (@USCCoachHelton) August 22, 2017
Sam Darnold seems to be the most obvious choice, after throwing for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns last season. He comes into this season as the Heisman favorite and has been the leader of the Trojan offense for some time now.
Cameron Smith was the most productive player on defense, leading the team in tackles last year with 83 (45 solo). He also added one sack and seven total tackles for loss. Smith, like Darnold, is expected to have an All-American type campaign.
Uchenna Nwosu is a rising senior who has caught the attention of coach Clay Helton. Nwosu is known for his work ethic and looks to be a big part of this USC defense. Look for the linebacking core to be the strength of this Trojan defense. Last season he had 53 total tackles (28 solo) including 7.5 for loss, three sacks and one forced fumble.
Last, but certainly not least, Chris Hawkins. The senior safety looks to take over for Leon McQuay III and build off his successful 2016 season. Word around camp is Hawkins has been instrumental to the growth of younger players in the secondary. It’s always good to have a veteran like him on the field. Last season he had 44 tackles (38 solo) four for loss, one sack and two passes deflected.
I look forward to seeing if these four men can lead their Trojan team to the championship game in this upcoming season.