USC Trojans' Lake McRee Reflects on Clay Helton's Return to Coliseum

McRee committed to USC in 2021 while Helton was head coach. The Austin, Texas native shared his positive remarks in his little time spent with Helton.

“(I) can't say enough good stuff about coach Helton at the end of the day," McRee said after Tuesday's practice. "That was a coach that I committed to out of high school and he gave me the opportunity to be at this prestigious university and that's why I've been here the past 5 years was because of him."

McRee also commented on Helton's elite football mind, and what makes him a notable name in college football.

"I think just his preparation," McRee said. "You know, I obviously wasn't there too long, so I didn't even get to see a full season with him, only two games, but I think just the way he looks at the game, he's really smart mind, too. He's also really good in recruiting, too."

Helton's USC 2021 recruiting class consists of elite college football and NFL talent, some who are still active on the Trojans roster. Alongside McRee, Helton's USC recruiting class features defensive backs Prophet Brown and Anthony Beavers Jr.

Houston Texans defensive backs Calen Bullock and Jaylin Smith also came from the elite recruiting class — Smith now in his rookie season, while Bullock heads into his second.

First-Time Meeting for Eagles and Trojans

For the second week in a row, the Trojans face a first-time opponent. While week 2's matchup could feel familiar with Helton on the opposite sideline, this is the Trojans first time facing the Sun Belt Conference powerhouse.

The Eagles finished last season 8-5 and 6-2 in conference play and secured a post season bowl game appearance, marking Helton's third straight bowl game as the Eagles coach. Georgia Southern finished second in conference play right behind Marshall.

Georgia Southern has a solid signal-caller in JC French IV, who's in his third season with the Eagles.

Despite their season-opening loss to Fresno State, French got off on the right foot. He finished 17-for-28 passing, 158 passing yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Last season French produced 269-for-410 passing, 2,831 passing yards, 17 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

The Eagles wide receiver room is a group that compliments French, which includes receivers Camden Brown, Dalen Cobb and Josh Dallas.

Georgia Southern's defense is what the Trojan offense needs to be careful of, which boasts an elite defensive back room. Among the group are Tracy Hill Jr., Chance Gamble and Davon Hicks. Gamble and Hill both were recognized as All-Sun Belt Selections last season.

For the Trojans, most areas look strong, with expectations of another strong showing this weekend. Quarterback Jayden Maiava finished 15-for-18 through the air, 295 yards and two touchdowns. Running backs Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders are bound for another successful performance, entering Week 2 with a touchdown each.

Defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn's defense proved the offseason hype last weekend, with a group finish of five sacks, 13 points allowed, 11 tackles for loss, and three forced turnovers.

Helton and the Eagles will seek redemption in the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum this Saturday, which should make for a competitive matchup.