USC football: Defensive back Leon McQuay III provides versatility
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Su’a Cravens is the freshman safety who has received most of the attention, but Leon McQuay III could grab some of the spotlight as USC’s season continues.
McQuay played nickel back and safety in USC’s 19-3 victory over Utah and got his first interception.
“My Dad always told me to visualize what I want,” McQuay said after the game. “And it just happened.”
McQuay could play a big role Friday when the Trojans play Oregon State at Corvallis, Ore., especially because of his versatility.
He started in place of junior Dion Bailey against Utah because Bailey was nursing shoulder and hip injuries. But when Cravens suffered a groin injury on an interception return, Bailey suited up and McQuay moved to safety.
“We had a lot of moving parts back there,” said defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast.
McQuay and the Trojans’ secondary will be challenged at Oregon State.
Beavers quarterback Sean Mannion is the top passer in college football. He has passed for 30 touchdowns with three passes intercepted.
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Go beyond the scoreboard
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