USC freshman Jacob Daniel draws praise from coach and teammate

USC defensive lineman Jacob Daniel is drawing attention from position coach Chris Wilson and fifth-year senior Antwaun Woods.

When asked whether any of the five freshmen linemen have stood out during training camp, Wilson and Woods named the 6-foot-4, 325-pound Daniel.

“I’ve enjoyed watching Jacob Daniel. He’s done a good job,” said Wilson, adding that he also has seen “flashes” from Christian Rector and Noah Jefferson.

Said Woods: “He has been getting better every day. He’s the one who has been sticking out to me the most.”

Daniel, from Clovis North High in Fresno, has taken reps at nose tackle behind Woods and fifth-year senior Cody Temple.

Woods said it has been Daniel’s “want to” that has set him apart.

“He comes out here with a good attitude and wants to get better. If he messes up, he wants to know how to fix it,” Woods said.

Daniel was named an Army All-American as a senior last season at Clovis North despite playing in only two games because of a knee injury.

USC opens the season Sept. 5 against Arkansas State.

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