After Saturday's scrimmage, the USC Trojans officially went from training-camp mode to game-prep mode, a feeling they -- especially quarterback Matt Barkley -- have been waiting for since the winter, according to the Orange County Register.
"Since Dec. 22, or whatever it was, I've been waiting for this day to come," Barkley said. "I really can't wait for next Saturday, when that kickoff happens. Then we're back at it."
Barkley announced he was coming back to school for his senior season on Dec. 22, and since then the Trojans have been the talk of college football. With a two-year postseason ban behind them, the Trojans are now ranked No. 1 in the country heading into a much-anticipated season.
USC begins its season with a game against Hawaii at home.
The Trojans are also trying to remain as healthy as possible, as their depth -- due to only being able to carry 75 scholarship players -- is the one flaw on the team that could be its undoing by season's end.
"There's no magic formula," said head coach Lane Kiffin. "There's no free agency. We'll just have to figure it out."
For more on the USC Trojans and their preparations for the upcoming season, be sure to check out Conquest Chronicles and stay tuned to SB Nation Los Angeles.