Trojan players say they're ready to face athletes other than each other. (Sara Ramsey/Neon Tommy)

“We’re tired of going against each other, now we’re ready to go against someone else,” defensive end Nick Perry said. “They’re a very physical team..a great team. We respect them. And we’re just gonna come out and play with our hearts.”

Head coach Lane Kiffin admitted it will take more than heart to beat the Golden Gophers. He cited the Minnesota’s physical defense and stopping mobile quarterback Marqueis Grey as some of the challenges the Trojans have been focusing on. 

Starting quarterback Matt Barkley said he’s looking forward to seeing how the Trojan defense performs come Saturday. 

“I think they feel a lot more comfortable with the schemes now, where they can just play football and not think about what they’re doing,” he said. “I’m excited to see them going against a different team.

INJURY REPORT: WR De’Von Fluornoy and C Abe Markowitz are out, while CB Brian Baucham and TE Christian Thomas remain limited. RB Amir Carlisle left practice today, but is expected to return tomorrow. Regarding LB Chris Galippo, who returned to practice Sunday after missing nearly two weeks because of a shoulder injury, Kiffin said, “I’m still nervous about it. We’ll throw him out there and hopefully he’ll do well.”