USC’s victory at Colorado and preparation for Saturday’s game against Utah come amid news of interim head coach Donte Williams’ father passing on Sept. 27.
Williams’ father, Antone, had been ill for a long time and was a strong factor in Donte’s desire to coach back at home.
“I am fortunate [USC athletics chief of staff] Brandon [Sosna], [athletic director] Mike [Bohn] and [former head coach] Clay [Helton] gave me the opportunity to come back home and be with him the last years of his life.” The coach is leaning on his USC family for support to help him get through this season of life.
“Without the people here it would be hard for me to [manage],” Williams said. “With the support, I was still able to push through, and you saw the result on Saturday.”
Williams said he still saw room for improvement after the 37-14 conference victory against Colorado, particularly in the team’s discipline. Twelve penalties cost the Trojans 125 yards and momentum.
“Everyone you see on the field [players, coaches and staff] ran [during practice] for each penalty … including myself,” Williams said. “One penalty can cost everybody.”
Tuesday’s practice emphasized discipline and execution while retaining the competitive energy from the victory by including referees. Williams also highlighted the positives he looks to build on ahead of Saturday’s matchup with Utah. “Controlling the line of scrimmage and getting off of the field when it counts,” Williams said. He also mentioned the energy on the field and sideline as strengths that he wants to continue throughout the season.
Low energy has cost the Trojans two consecutive games at the Coliseum, where the Week 6 matchup will be played. The Trojans hope to regain their identity at home.
“We have to know where home is … and set the tone early, " redshirt sophomore wide receiver Tahj Washington said. “We have to come out fast and strike.”
Williams noted that redshirt sophomore cornerback Max Williams and freshman quarterback Jaxson Dart are making significant progress in rehab. Dart was a light participant in practice for the first time since having surgery on a torn meniscus suffered in Week 3 against Washington State. “It was great to see him out here throwing,” Williams said. Dart will be evaluated on a week-to-week basis before full clearance is given. “He has to be able to run, throw and [most importantly] he has to be able to take a hit.”
Kedon Slovis remains the starter.
With the fifth conference game of the season coming against Utah, the Trojans look to put together their best performance yet and earn their first home victory since the opener.