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USC without two key linebackers against Nevada

Erik-McKinneyby: Erik McKinney09/02/23ErikTMcKinney

The USC Trojans will be without two veteran linebackers on Saturday against the Nevada Wolf Pack. Eric Gentry and Mason Cobb are both not dressed nor participating in warmups for the Trojans ahead of the 3:30 kickoff.

Cobb started for the Trojans last week in the season-opener against the San Jose State Spartans. He finished with six tackles, including two tackles for loss. The Oklahoma State transfer immediately became a team leader after landing at USC out of the transfer portal. He grabbed the starting middle linebacker spot during spring ball and was also the defensive player representative for the Trojans at Pac-12 Media Day.

Gentry was a fulltime starter for USC last season until an injury during the regular season game against Utah knocked him out for several weeks. Gentry returned late in the year but was playing at less than 100% healthy. He didn’t start against the Spartans but provided a real spark when he came into the game as a reserve. Gentry finished that game with two tackles, but was on the field for many of the Trojans’ best defensive series.

With those two sidelined, true freshman Tackett Curtis and third-year player Raesjon Davis could have an opportunity to take advantage of what should be increased playing time. Curtis started for the Trojans last week, while Davis saw limited time on defense. Shane Lee is another option there, though he was clearly limited last week and didn’t see any defensive snaps. Garrison Madden and Chris Thompson Jr. represent the available depth at the two inside linebacker positions in this one.

Other Trojans Out Against Nevada

The Trojans will also be without defensive lineman Tyrone Taleni. The veteran interior lineman will miss his second game this season. He was also out for last week’s game against the Spartans.

Wide receiver Raleek Brown is not on the field during warmups ahead of this game.

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Garry Paskwietz was a pioneer in bringing team-specific sports coverage to the internet. He founded WeAreSC in 1998 and was an Emmy winner for his work with Fox Sports West. Always generous with his time, knowledge, and compassion, he touched the lives of countless USC and high school football fans.

Garry Paskwietz