The Trojans continued their fall practice camp on Friday afternoon and the most notable development for the day was the return on wide receiver Robert Woods. Woods, who had been absent from practice for a week with an injured ankle, reportedly looked good in his return to the field.
Outside of an early drop during special teams drills, Woods (pictured right by John McGillen) looked comfortable from start to finish, especially over the middle. His day was highlighted by a beautiful connection with QB Matt Barkley, in which the sophomore wideout was able to shield himself away from CB Nickell Robey for a 15-yard completion on a well-timed out route.
Woods on his first day back: "I felt a little out of shape in the two-minute drill, but I feel pretty good going full speed. Some routes I am still favoring the ankle, other than that I am out here full speed. When I am out on the field there is no thought of it [the ankle], then again you feel it at times, but you have to let it go. It's football."
This is encouraging news for both coach Kiffin and the team. Woods will need to take over the duties as the No. 1 receiver and option for Matt Barkley and his good health is required for this to happen. With all reports indicating he was good to go on Friday, one would have to believe Woods will be completely healed in time for opening weekend.
Here is coach Kiffin after practice:
Kickoff is now just 15 days away.