USC Might Have Real Catch in the Versatile MacKenzie

When he took over at USC a few months ago, Coach Pete Carroll studied last season’s football team and noticed the play of tailback Malaefou MacKenzie, often used as a third-down back.

“He’s very versatile,” Carroll said. “I really liked him on film.”

The coach likes him even more now.

With a new spread offense, MacKenzie is playing more and lining up in the slot where he can display his receiving skills. In a scrimmage Friday, he caught six passes for 57 yards.

MacKenzie is excited to show his skills while being on the field at the same time as Sultan McCullough, who started in the backfield and gained 1,163 yards last season.

“With the two of us out there,” MacKenzie said, “it’s really hard for the defense to see any tendencies.”

McCullough provided the other half of that one-two punch with a 65-yard touchdown run on the first snap of the scrimmage. The defense answered with some big hits, most notably by linebacker Chris Prosser.

“I love this defense,” said the redshirt sophomore, who had three tackles and a deflection. “You just set everybody loose and make plays.”

The offensive line, which struggled some in a scrimmage at the Coliseum last Saturday, has looked sharper in recent practices, especially with Norm Katnik switched to left tackle. Carroll was also impressed by Lee Webb, who has switched from fullback to linebacker and had six tackles Friday.

“I’m pleased with where we are,” Carroll said. “We’re making strides.”