USC’s Greg Townsend Jr. on track to start against Arkansas State

After struggling through injuries and illness during most of his college career, Greg Townsend Jr. is on track to start at defensive end against Arkansas State.

Townsend, a fifth-year senior, had chicken pox early last season. He also was slowed by an ankle injury.

He had two sacks in nine games.

The 6-foot-3, 275-pound Townsend, son of former NFL defensive lineman Greg Townsend, made numerous disruptive plays during training camp.

“That’s one of my best qualities,” he said of his pass-rushing skills, “and I’m going to try to do that for my team.”

Quick hits

Kicker Alex Wood and receivers Christian Tober and George Katrib were awarded scholarships. Wood, a fourth-year junior, will start against Arkansas State. He kicked 12 extra points last season, eight in 2012. He has not attempted a field goal.

gary.klein@latimes.com

Twitter: @latimesklein