Chad Savage, the Trojans' inside wide receivers and tight ends coach, isn't one to keep his strategies under wraps. Since his arrival last season, he's been all about urgency and clarity, setting clear expectations for his players and himself. With the Trojans needing to sort out the pecking order at these key positions, time is of the essence, and Savage is all about making the most of it.
This week, Savage emphasized that there's no time like the present. The offseason reps and upcoming spring practices are crucial for players aiming to climb the depth chart by fall.
He laid out his approach succinctly: "Details, details, details," he said. "Practice is everything to me.
It doesn't matter if it's a walkthrough or a game-day practice. How you practice translates directly to how you play on Saturdays."
The buzz around freshman tight end Mark Bowman is building, thanks to his standout high school performances. Savage, a coach who values substance over flash, is optimistic about Bowman’s potential.
"His work ethic is impressive," Savage noted. "He's not just meeting expectations; he's exceeding them by putting in extra time and effort.
That dedication is going to pay off."
Savage also highlighted the areas Bowman needs to develop. "He's pretty complete, but we need to focus on the blocking game in the Big Ten. As a natural pass catcher and route runner, he's got the explosive talent we saw in his high school tape."
Beyond Bowman, the Trojans have other intriguing prospects. Walter Matthews, standing at 6-foot-6 and weighing 285 pounds, is another player Savage is keen to develop.
"Walter has all the tools. It's my job to help him become a complete tight end.
He's making great strides in the weight room, and I'm excited to see his progress this spring."
USC's approach to bowl seasons has been unique, using the extra practice and preparation as a springboard for the next season. This strategy has benefited players like Carson Tabaracci and Taniela Tupou, who took advantage of extra reps in the absence of Lake McRee and Walker Lyons during the Alamo Bowl.
"They made tremendous strides," Savage said. "That extra practice time in December was invaluable, and it's given them a new level of confidence heading into spring."
Savage also praised the addition of transfer Tucker Ashcraft from Wisconsin. At 6-foot-5 and 257 pounds, Ashcraft is already making an impact.
"He's a great addition, both as a player and a leader. Having played in the Big Ten, he knows what it takes and has made tremendous strides in just a month."
With a wealth of talent at his disposal, Savage is poised to shape the Trojans' tight ends for the upcoming season. The spring practices will be crucial in determining who steps up in this pivotal position group.