USC freshmen Curtis McNeal and Nick Perry, who just joined the team after making it through the NCAA academic clearinghouse last Friday, made positive impressions during their first week of practice.

McNeal had several impressive rushes Thursday, showing quick feet and natural run instincts.

Of course, he is the seventh-string running back for the Trojans, who probably have the deepest assemblage of tailback talent in the country. So why come to USC?

“As soon as I got offered, I was going to come,” McNeal said. “I just fell in love with the coaching staff. I met a few guys. I just wanted to be part of the Trojan family, so that’s what I did.”

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