USC Football Ends Spring Practice with the Trojan Huddle

On April, 9 2006, the USC Trojans competed in their spring scrimmage game, the Trojan Huddle. The game was played in the Coliseum in front of over 15,000 fans. The team led by quarterback Michael McDonald won the game 22-19 over the team led by quarterback Mark Sanchez.

The offensive star of the Trojan Huddle was wide receiver Patrick Turner who caught two touchdown passes. Turner, a sophomore next year, looks to play a much larger role in the Trojan offense during the 2006 season. Wide receiver Brad Walker and tight end Fred Davis each caught one touchdown pass.

With all of the tailbacks out with injuries, the Trojans turned the running game over to the fullbacks. Both Brandon Hancock and Ryan Powdrell found the endzone once. Powdrell owned the top run of the day when he broke free for a 51-yard rush.

Coach Pete Carroll was extremely happy with the play of the Trojan defense who forced five total turnovers in the game. With a forced fumble, fumble recovery, and an interception, linebacker Clay Matthews was the star player for the Trojans on defense. Special teams also saw a big play when safety Ryan Ting took back a punt seventy-five yards for a touchdown.

Although the quarterback position is still somewhat undecided, both McDonald and Sanchez turned in good outings. McDonald completed 19 of his 27 passes for 191 yards, 3 touchdowns, and an interception. Sanchez completed 13 of his 21 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown. John David Booty was forced to miss the Trojan Huddle as he recovers from back surgery.