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USC Football Practice Notes: Adoree’ Jackson To Be Used “Strategically”

By Alicia de Artola

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USC football head coach Steve Sarkisian praised his three-way phenom Adoree’ Jackson once again after Thursday’s practice at the Coliseum, noting that the Trojan coaches will need to be “very strategic” when it comes to employing his unique skill-set.

“What we learned about Adoree’ a year ago is that he has a really high football IQ. He can pick things up really quickly,” Sarkisian said of the sophomore cornerback-receiver-returner who continues to impress on both sides of the ball. “I don’t know many people that can take on what he’s taking on.”

Jackson was back on offense Thursday and his performance prompted the head coach to concede that more offensive reps could be coming his way, despite a desire to maintain his involvement on defense.

That has been the coin flip debate throughout the spring. Should or shouldn’t Jackson take up an increased role on offense once the season rolls around?

So far, it appears Jackson has made his case for those offensive reps.

As Sarkisian noted, he converted multiple third downs for the offense Thursday. They even gave him a chance to take a hand-off, prompted by Jackson’s own requests to be even more involved.

“It’s very enticing, believe me,” Sarkisian said.

Cameron Smith Rides Again

Early enrollee Cameron Smith was touted as a pure middle linebacker when he chose the Trojans as his college destination. He continued to build on his excellent spring on Thursday, displaying plenty of evidence for that praise.

The freshman linebacker logged his second pick six of camp during goal line drills. His ability to be in the right place at the right time has allowed him to make the most of his head start thus far.

“He’s a physical guy inside, not the most vocal guy right now but how could you be,” Sarkisian said. “I’ve been impressed. He’s made those flashing plays that you notice.”

Resurgence

Lamar Dawson seems intent on living up to the number on his back this spring, continually earning plaudits for his play from coaches and observers.

Thursday, it was his work in the challenge portion of practice which caught the eye of Sarkisian as he sealed the win for the defense on the final play.

Dawson has made a habit of coming up big in the biggest moments in practice, which was highlighted by Sarkisian after practice.

More News and Notes:

  • The team worked on “backed up situations” with the offense in the shadow of their own endzone. The offense started strong but the defense came back to force a safety from Cody Temple and the pick six from Smith.
  • Olajuwon Tucker has changed his body to make the most of this spring, progressing as both an inside and outside linebacker, according to Sarkisian
  • Sarkisian called Max Tuerk arguably the best center in the country.
  • With Khaliel Rodgers out because of a shoulder injury, Toa Lobendahn saw second team reps at center while Nico Falah took his place among the ones at left tackle, via Michael Lev.
  • Darreus Rogers took a shot at hitting the cycle in terms of highlight plays, completing a diving catch, a one-handed reception and a jump ball touchdown in the endzone, via Michael Lev.
  • Leonard Williams attended practice once again Thursday, prompting Sarkisian to applaud his dedication to the program even after leaving. Sarkisian surmised that the players lift their game when he’s around.

You can watch Steve Sarkisian’s entire post-practice presser below, via USC Athletics:

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