Newcomers show ability to impress
By Phil Collin

For the first time, USC coach Pete Carroll got to see the program's newcomers thrust into the spotlight with the veterans. And he didn't seem too disappointed.

It was the first high-level audition for some players of the nation's top recruiting class and there seemed to be an acceptance, instead of an aloofness, from the established Trojans.

"You could feel the energy of the whole group,'' Carroll said. "The older guys are excited to be back, they've got a feel for the young guys already so they're kind of pulling for them. ... There's going to be a lot of opportunity for these young guys to step in and help us and everybody can sense it.''

Senior flanker Steve Smith, part of the 2003 class that has produced eight current starters, saw some eye-opening plays from receivers Travon Patterson, Vidal Hazelton and David Ausberry.

They're already pushing the establishment of Smith, Dwayne Jarrett, Chris McFoy and Patrick Turner.

"We've got a bunch of young guys with speed we haven't seen for a few years here,'' Smith said. "They just bring different elements to the team that will be real helpful. We just want to mix in our knowledge with them and it should be great.''

One freshman receiver won't be able to contribute; Jamere Holland will require surgery Thursday to repair a fractured collarbone. He will redshirt this season.

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