USC’s Khaliel Rodgers moves to center for spring practice

USC offensive lineman Khaliel Rodgers worked as the starting right guard last fall before he suffered a knee injury.

Freshmen Damien Mama and Viane Talamaivao took over at the position while Rodgers spent weeks slowed or sidelined.

Rodgers, a 6-foot-3, 315-pound third-year sophomore, said coaches moved him to center this spring.

“I feel as though I am going to excel,” said Rodgers, adding his goal this season was to “get a spot back.”

Rodgers said senior Max Tuerk, who is preparing for his second season at center, has helped teach him the position.

The biggest challenge has been learning how to read the defense, Rodgers said.

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