Sept. 18, 2002
Columbia, SC –
* USC had an energetic practice on Wednesday, according to assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Skip Holtz. The Gamecocks also were able to practice with wet field and wet ball conditions as heavy rains soaked the area the past 24 hours.
* Update on injuries: OG Cedric Williams (shoulder) did not practice but is expected to play Saturday against Temple; OT Travelle Wharton (neck) practiced; OT Watts Sanderson (back) practiced; QB Dondrial Pinkins (ankle) practiced; QB Corey Jenkins (turf toe) practiced.
* Skip said the play and energy level of the young receivers has been impressive during practice this week. “It’s been fun to watch Andre Hemphill, Troy Williamson, and Kris Clark practice,” said Skip. “I believe all three will play Saturday. They add a lot of excitement and have some talent.” Skip said that the play of receivers Michael Ages and Ryan Brewer has been exemplary. He expects Andrea Gause and Mikal Goodman to also see action. Matthew Thomas has not practiced much this week after getting his foot stepped on during Monday evening’s practice. “It’s a game of productivity and we want people who will play within the system,” said Skip. “There were times in the Georgia game that Matthew wasn’t performing up to his capabilities.”
* Skip said he also expects freshman running back Kenny Irons to see more action this week. “Kenny has talent and some explosiveness; he just needs some experience,” said Skip. When asked if senior running back Andrew Pinnock may have a reduced role this week, Skip said: “We have to stop the turnover binge. It’s the main reason we are 1-2. We’re going to play the people who aren’t going to turn the ball over. Andrew will play, don’t get me wrong, but we are also going to look at some other people, as well. The turnovers can’t be tolerated.”
* Skip said the offense is also looking to develop some young depth. “A lot of our seniors are having to play 60-65 plays a game,” said Skip. “We need to find some depth and we will.”
* Skip said that he is somewhat concerned about Dondrial Pinkins’ ankle. “Dondrial was playing well last week and then tweaked his ankle,” said Skip. “It’s a high ankle sprain and it’s something that we don’t want to have linger the rest of the year. He may be limited some in how much he can play this week. But, if he’s healthy, he certainly deserves to play.”
* USC and Temple square off this Saturday night at Williams-Brice Stadium with kickoff set for 7 p.m. There is no live television.
