Marqise Lee’s effort was never questioned at USC

Former Trojan Marqise Lee was on the receiving end of harsh words from his new head coach in Jacksonville after a disappointing performance in the Jaguars’ first preseason game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Coach Gus Bradley publicly questioned Lee’s effort after the second-round pick wasn’t even targeted in a 16-10 win over the Bucs.

In three seasons at USC, however, Lee’s effort was never an issue. The 2012 Biletnikoff Award winner even played with a nagging knee injury through most of his final season.

“I know everyday when he strapped it on here it was 110%,” USC receivers coach Tee Martin told The Times. “He gave us everything.”

And the rookie receiver bounced back Thursday night in Chicago from his earlier preseason performance.

Lee was targeted four times, catching all four passes for 27 yards, including a six-yard touchdown against the Bears. It was the first touchdown of his NFL career.

Martin spoke with his former player after the game. “He did a good job, better than a week ago,” said Martin, adding that Lee was in good spirits.

The Jags fell, 20-19, to the Bears, dropping to 1-1 in the preseason.

Jacksonville will play the Detroit Lions on Friday, when Lee will face former Trojan Reggie Bush.