USC is hoping to boost tight end targets in passing game
Despite tight ends’ low production in 2019 and the Trojans losing two key players, Helton is encouraged by the group
Adam Grosbard (OCRegister.com) — Last season, tight ends weren’t exactly a major contributor in the passing game for USC.
The Trojans received a total of 15 catches and 145 yards, or just 3.3% of USC’s total receiving yards, from the position in 2019.
“I see them being more prevalent in the pass game,” he said Thursday morning.
USC lost two tight ends over the offseason, dampening optimism that they would play a role in passing situations this year. Daniel Imatorbhebhe transferred to Illinois and 2020 commit Jack Yary never enrolled at the school, opting instead to head north to Washington.
Through the first week of camp, though, Helton has noticed offensive coordinator Graham Harrell utilizing the group in passing situations.
While Erik Krommenhoek and Josh Falo provide veteran presences at tight end, Helton has been pleased with the progress of redshirt freshman Jude Wolfe.
“It was really neat to see Jude get involved and gain some confidence and really made two or three nice plays in the scrimmage [Wednesday] and one for a big score,” Helton said. “It’s been nice to see the playmaking ability of those kids.”
PARENT PETITION
Some USC football parents started a petition asking for permission for Pac-12 parents to attend games in person this season. The conference released a statement Wednesday, saying parents would be allowed to attend so long as state and local health officials permit attendance.
“I hope that we continue to see declining infection rates, and when the city and the state feel like it is time and we are in a safe place, I know they will make the right decision for the community,” he said.
FIRST DAY OF TACKLING
USC had its first day of full-pads practice Wednesday. Helton said he was pleased with the team’s tackling performance and the offense’s ball security during the first day of full contact.
He was also happy with the open-field tackling the linebackers and secondary displayed.
“I was extremely pleased with the scrimmage as far as the DB’s physicality and the ability to get the ball on the ground,” Helton said. “The linebackers, the thing I saw that carried over from [defensive coordinator Todd Orlando’s] drills was just the ability to separate from blocks and make open space tackles.”
INJURY REPORT
Wide receiver Bru McCoy returned to scrimmage situations Wednesday after being limited in the first few practices by a hamstring injury.
“Now he’s been cut loose and really has had some good days back to back, to be honest with you,” Helton said. “Really looking forward to continuing to see his progression.”
Helton added that there have been no new, significant injuries in the first week of camp, adding, “Just bumps and bruises. Nothing that is detrimental to anybody, as far as I see, for missing the first game.”
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