The Trojans went through an abbreviated practice before they board their flight for the islands.
- While the practice was lighter than usual, Lane Kiffin would not allow for a drop in intensity. During offensive team drills, he sent the entire offense off the field and made them re-enter with a more focused attitude.
- "They weren't right," Kiffin said about his offense's practice demeanor. "They were very comfortable. They weren't crisp and that's how you get beat."
- Kiffin has invoked the Appalachian St./Michigan example multiple times in reference to Hawaii's chances to spring a seismic upset.
- Senior RB C.J. Gable concurs, "We've got to get our mind right right now. We're too busy thinking about leaving, but we've got to get this done first."
- Gable will be an interesting player to watch against Hawaii. For all the crazy tailback depth in the last few years, the Trojans will likely only use Marc Tyler, Allen Bradford and Gable behind Stanley Havili.
- Khaled Holmes is ready to go according to Kiffin. After all the injuries, the Trojans should have their best five offensive linemen lead them out against Hawaii.
- Mitch Mustain threw for the first time this week. He also got under center as the primary back-up, so he looks ready if needed against the Warriors.
- With not a whole lot going on, I took a survey of plane activities. Gable plans to check out his playbook when his eyes are open. Allen Bradford will let Jay-Z and Lil' Wayne rock him to bed. And, Butch Lewis is not a big fan of flying. He'd prefer to close his eyes in LA and open them in Oahu.
- We're leaving on a jet plane, but I'll be tweeting updates on the way and posting on the blog and Facebook from the islands.
- Here are Kiffin's thoughts before the journey:
Hey guys.
Could you please place a wind screen on your pics and ask Coach Kiffin to hold the mike close to his mouth. He's a soft spoken guy to begin with, and with the distance of your microphones beig more than 2 feet away, your omnidirectional mics are picking up every other bit of ambient sound and we can't hear what Coach is saying.
Ya know what I'm sayin'?
So when does the team leave campus and get to LAX then Hawaii? Also when do they plan on ariving back home friday morning?
I hope you will be providing photos of the team and their activities and preparation for the games throughout the season, and in particular while they are in Hawaii.
The photos and descriptions we received last year on this website, made one feel like they were at the games and in the hotels and locker rooms with the team. Because of the sanctions the fans are now more further removed from the team than ever before. It would be nice if this website could make us feel a bit closer to the team, surrounding the games themselves.
Thank you,
Paula
Frank.....I know why you are asking, we love more info! Like last year! I'll add to your questions, Frank.....when and where will they practice in Hawaii? And Paula, you are right on target...we are further removed now and don't have our beloved RIPSIT to keep us informed. Maybe we were spoiled? And Frank....they landed in HI about 12:45 Pacific Time after leaving LAX at aprox 6:30 Pacific Time. Left campus around 5.