USC Football: Players to Watch for in Trojans' 2016 Spring Game
Though Max Browne, Sam Darnold and the quarterback competition will garner most of the attention during USC's spring game, a handful of other Trojans deserve their moment in the spotlight—or at least the recognition that a standout performance is possible.
None of the following players were on the national radar last year, but they may eventually secure significant roles on the 2016 team.
Nobody will lock up a starting spot just by putting up big numbers in a scrimmage. Still, a strong outing could be an encouraging step forward for reserves looking to rise up the depth chart.
De'Quan Hampton, Wide Receiver
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JuJu Smith-Schuster, Steven Mitchell Jr. and Darreus Rogers are expected to be USC's top receivers. Adoree' Jackson should also contribute.
Can senior De'Quan Hampton join them?
Last year, he managed 165 yards on 15 receptions, including a career-best six catches for 47 yards against Oregon. But at 6'4" and 220 pounds, the senior could be a much bigger weapon.
Hampton seems like a prime candidate to assemble a noteworthy day, especially if he matches up against walk-ons and deep reserves.
Daniel Imatorbhebhe, Tight End
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Taylor McNamara caught four touchdowns, and Tyler Petite snared a position-best 15 catches in 2015. USC certainly wouldn't mind a bigger impact from its tight ends, though.
Quarterbacks share a responsibility in the matter, but perhaps that boost will come from Florida transfer Daniel Imatorbhebhe.
Though Imatorbhebhe needs to become a reliable blocker, the 6'4" target can break into the lineup. He's arguably the best pass-catcher of the three-man group.
Even if the redshirt freshman can't surge past McNamara, Imatorbhebe has big-play ability that will be difficult to ignore.
Malik Dorton, Defensive Tackle
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Although USC has loads of talent up front, potential noticeably outweighs production. Plus, an ACL injury will likely keep Kenny Bigelow from seeing the field in 2016.
Noah Jefferson and Rasheem Green figure to lead the defensive tackles, but Malik Dorton must be a factor in the rotation with Jacob Daniel.
Last year, Dorton appeared in two games and notched a pair of stops. A schematic change could help the undersized sophomore, who is listed at 275 pounds, to better utilize his aggressiveness.
But that might simply be a rationalization. Dorton needs to prove he's capable of handling bigger opponents.
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Michael Hutchings, Linebacker
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A knee injury has sidelined Cameron Smith during spring practice, and he'll probably slide back into the starting lineup when he's healthy.
But for now, Michael Hutchings is filling the void.
He's been a regular contributor, though he's been limited to 19, 20 and 13 tackles during his first three seasons, respectively. Consequently, the spring is a crucial time for the senior to gain the trust of his coaches.
Hutchings could have a larger role in 2016, and he should be a featured player Saturday.
Leon McQuay, Safety
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Leon McQuay's respectable sophomore season appeared to point toward an outstanding junior campaign. However, he recorded just 18 total tackles in eight games.
But it's a new year for the starting safety.
According to Bruce Feldman of Fox Sports, head coach Clay Helton said McQuay is a more vocal leader of the defense. Dan Weber of Scout added that Clancy Pendergast's attacking philosophy should help reduce the pressure on McQuay to think and allow him to just play instead.
Then again, that's all talk. Saturday is the time for McQuay—and his teammates—to show it on the field.
Stats from cfbstats.com or B/R research. Quotes obtained firsthand unless otherwise noted. Follow Bleacher Report College Football Writer David Kenyon on Twitter @Kenyon19_BR.
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