USC QB Mark Sanchez used the word “good” 22 times during a three-and-a-half minute interview, even ending the conversation by asking, ”Good?” (I didn’t count that one.)
This came after Tuesday’s practice, in which he participated in the morning walk-thru and threw to receivers in the afternoon for about 30 minutes, the most extensive work he has done with the team since dislocating his left kneecap on Aug. 8. I caught up with a few of his targets and they seemed just as excited as him about his possible return … as long as he remembers his helmet.
Sanchez apparently forgot to bring it with him at the beginning of practice — “I didn’t even think about taking it,” he said.
So here we go again, another photo essay, but this time without me … OK, maybe with a little me.
Sanchez: “I didn’t try and sprint, just light jogging and light workout stuff with the team. It was good to get back in the team setting and call plays, see guys in the huddle.
“They know I’m competitive and they’re all telling me to be careful. It’s a plus that I’m on my feet this early doing as much as I am. We’re ahead of schedule. I need it. I’m getting bored.”
Receiver Damian Williams: “Spirits lifted today when we saw him out there throwing. We were happy to see that. Not even just being ready for him to come back but just the fact that he’s up and moving and throwing. It was a good sight to see.
“He threw well today, especially for his first day back. You’d think he’d be kind of rusty but he was on point.
“I wouldn’t say (he threw) just as hard. He’s got to plant off his foot. I don’t know how comfortable he is doing that yet.”
Receiver Travon Patterson: “He’s a pretty strong guy. He’s working real hard to get back. He’s dedicated to the team. He wants to be there to help us for Virginia.
“He’s knows exactly where to put the ball at. It didn’t seem like he lost a step. The zip of the ball is still there.
“If he’s ready I think he’ll play. He’s that type of guy. He’s willing to do anything to help the team.”
Sanchez: “I felt good throwing today. I felt in rhythm, my arm strength feels fine. Hopefully I’ll be able to do a little more (Wednesday).
“It’s a definite possibility (I’ll play against Virginia). The way things are headed, it’s looking good.
“Whatever (the doctor) has been saying we’re going to do each day I’ve been doing that, and on my own I try and test it a little bit. At practice he said, Last throw, and then I take two more because I’m trying to push this thing and see how much I can stand without really going overboard.”
