James Toland got significant time at running at the Coliseum. (Charlie Magovern/Neon Tommy)

The Running Backs

Three running backs did not participate in practice: 2013 MVP Buck Allen, Justin Davis and Ty Isaac. Tre Madden took majority of the reps with the first team offense and saw some success running the ball after a lingering hamstring injury that occurred during the 2013 season. 

The two biggest surprises were redshirt freshman running back James Toland and junior fullback Jahleel Pinner. Toland didn’t see much time last season, but got the primary reps with the second team and shared reps with Madden and the first team offense. Toland had multiple carries for big gains, breaking several tackles in the process. When asked about his opportunity to step in for the other running backs, Toland said, “well, we’re in the same meeting rooms everyday and I get to practice with these guys every day. When one of us goes down we’re expected to step up and keep each other accountable. We want to be the hardest-working position on the field so I just wanted to step up and it was an opportunity for me to show what I can do.”

Pinner, a fullback, also had the opportunity to take some carries today at the running back position. Although it is not his typical position, Pinner made the most of his opportunity and had some success. After practice he talked about how in the offseason he changed his eating habits, tried to slim down, and let the coaches know he wanted the chance to run the ball. When asked about the biggest adjustment from fullback to running back he said that playing running back requires a much faster pace, and he needs to get used to the change of pace. 

READ MORE: USC Spring Football Practice Recap: Offense Steps Up

Struggles at Center

Finding a replacement for former center Marcus Martin has been a theme throughout the spring and will continue to be one. Max Tuerk has been the favorite so far, but senior lineman Giovanni Di Poalo got opportunities too. In the live scrimmage period, there were several bad snaps by both guys, mostly too low. This caused some struggles for the quarterbacks. The players are working hard on adjusting to center, and with plenty of time left before the spring game, they will improve.  

Passing Game Finds Rhythm 

In both the scrimmage and 7-on-7 periods, the passing game flourished. Cody Kessler showed off his ability to throw the long ball, something he has been working hard on this offseason. Kessler found Nelson Agholor twice down the field for touchdowns, including a 75-yard bomb. Browne, on the other hand, showed some positives in the short game with some laser passes to the slant route. 

Reach Staff Writer Jordan Schuchmann here or follow him.