Two things are perfectly clear after USC’s first fall practice in the Coliseum on Monday:

• The defense, led by an experienced secondary and a young, active line is in mid-season form.
• Competition at quarterback remains very close between junior Max Browne and redshirt freshman Sam Darnold.
  The 6-5, 220-pound Browne has the most seasoning.

However, Darnold, at a similar but the 6-4, 225 pounds, is faster.

Both possess strong, accurate arms.

USC Coach Clay Helton said he will make a decision on the starter two weeks before their opener on Sept. 3 against defending national champion Alabama.

On the defense, the Trojans appear to be solid under defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. They return six defensive starters, led by cornerback-receiver-returner Adoree’ Jackson and inside linebacker Cameron Smith.

The key, though, will be determined by how fast Smith recovers from off season knee surgery.

Smith was a freshman All-American and Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year last season.

“I feel great,” said Smith after practice. “The coaches are trying to work me back into the lineup slowly.

“I am stronger every day, better every day. I am happy to be back.”

Smith is pleased to learn under veteran NFL coach Pendergast.

“We are focusing on the little things,” said Smith. “We are making sure we know our assignments and we are held accountable, making sure everyone is doing the right things.”

Smith said the defense is stronger than it was in the spring.

“We are flying around,” Smith said. It’s exciting to watch, exciting to play. Our coaches are excited, too, about how much we have improved.”

Smith said playing Alabama on national television “is an opportunity of a lifetime,” said Smith. “We are happy to play on college football’s biggest stage the first game of the year.”

Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley50@aol.com