Trojans offensive line gets aggressive

The USC offensive line went back to work this morning, running drills a day after surrendering four sacks in the team’s first scrimmage.

While much of the attention at training camp has focused on the quarterback situation, the Trojans are dealing with injuries and inexperience along the front five. Offensive line coach Pat Ruel said he has spent the last week emphasizing pass protection.

“That’s an area where we really need to improve,” Ruel said. “Being physical in pass protection. We’re catching too much. We’re absorbing.”

It might seem that backpedaling at the snap and setting a pocket around the quarterback is inherently passive, at least in comparison to charging forward on running plays. Ruel doesn’t like that way of thinking.

“I want you being physical while being under control,” he said. “That’s the most difficult thing about being a pass protector.”

What, exactly, does that entail? Offensive tackle Butch Lewis said it isn’t so complicated.

“Stay low,” he explained. “Be very aggressive with your hands.”

Judging by Tuesday’s scrimmage, in which the defense also forced its way into the backfield to deflect several passes, the offensive line has more to learn.

“There are going to be rough spots,” center Kristofer O’Dowd said. “That’s what camp is for.”

Guard Jeff Byers, who has been suffering flu-like symptoms, was cleared to participate in more noncontact drills today. The Colorado native said he had been diagnosed with Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks.

Byers thinks he was bitten while recently attending his sister’s wedding. He is taking antibiotics and expects to be cleared for contact in a few days.

 david.wharton@latimes.com