There’s a chance that USC’s standout freshman is on track for a comeback.
Wide receiver Trent Mosley missed the Trojans’ Big Ten opener due to an unspecified injury, but he was listed as doubtful in the availability report released on Wednesday.
This update is positive news as No. 12 USC prepares to face No. 20 Oregon this Saturday at the Coliseum.
Mosley, who appeared to have a right knee injury—spotted with ice on it during a previous broadcast—has been sidelined for a bit.
In his absence, fellow freshman receiver Kayden Dixon-Wyatt took the opportunity to shine, leading the team with five catches for 77 yards last week.
Unfortunately, wide receiver Corey Simms, who also performed well with four catches for 72 yards and a touchdown, is out against the Ducks after injuring his left knee during a play in the fourth quarter.
USC will also miss center Kilian O’Connor for the season, along with safety Kendarius Reddick and reserve linebacker Taylor “Taybo” Johnson.
Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart, who has been close to returning from a foot injury, is listed as questionable for the game. Coach Lincoln Riley noted earlier this week that Stewart had not experienced any setbacks in his recovery.
“He’s continuing to rest and get healthier,” Riley commented. “We feel confident we’ll have him back at some point. But it’s a bit of a balancing act—managing his rest without being overly cautious. We’re definitely making progress.”
This availability report is the first of four leading up to kickoff, with the final one scheduled two hours before the game.
Linebacker Elijah Newby is listed as probable, while safety Alex Graham, running back Deshonne Redeaux, and linebacker Jadyn Walker are all considered questionable.
On the other side, Oregon will miss wide receiver Jeremiah McClellan after it was revealed by coach Dan Lanning that he broke a foot in warmups prior to the Ducks’ impressive 84-0 victory over Portland State. McClellan had been a key player, leading his team in receiving yards with six catches for 151 yards and a touchdown in their opening win against Boise State.
Should Mosley be unable to play on Saturday, the Trojans likely won’t feel sympathy for the Ducks. He has made a name for himself as one of the top receivers nationwide, tallying 13 catches for 255 yards and four touchdowns, in addition to an 86-yard punt return for another score.
