Linebacker Porter Gustin intends to play more ‘physical’

USC linebacker Porter Gustin enjoys watching former Trojan linebackers Clay Matthews and Brian Cushing, both of whom became NFL first-round draft picks in 2009.

Gustin began his USC career last week, one of 13 true freshmen who debuted in the Trojans’ season-opening victory over Arkansas State last Saturday.

The 6-foot-5, 254-pound Gustin made three tackles. His role could increase this Saturday against Idaho.

Gustin said he was “thinking too much” in his first game.

“I wasn’t playing physical enough,” he said. “I worked on that and it will be changed by Saturday.”

Linebackers coach Peter Sirmon also expects Gustin to progress in technique.

“He plays with great effort,” Sirmon said. “We should all expect significant improvement every week he takes the field because of how he prepares.”

USC is a 43-point favorite over Idaho, the Trojans’ second consecutive Sun Belt Conference opponent.

Twitter: @LATimesklein