On the heels of the 2007 home opener, USC Assistant Coach Bob Cantu talks to /LA about this year’s team and overcoming some early obstacles.

The Trojans lost a nail-biter this past week at the Galen Center. Although initially timid, the young team struck back in the second half showcasing an ability to run-and-gun and put points on the board. Moments of brilliance gave fans a glimpse of what’s to come this season – not to mention 32 points scored by number 32.

/LA: How does this year’s team differ from last year’s?
Coach Cantu: This year, we lost 3 starters to the pros and almost 50 points out of last year’s lineup. We’re having to replace some of that scoring punch.

/LA: How many starters are returning this season?
Coach Cantu: We’ve got two returning starters from last year.

/LA: What challenges do you face with such a young team

Coach Cantu: Well, we don’t have as much time to get the team prepared. We’re trying to teach while expecting players with no experience to carry the team. It’ll come with time. These players are very capable.

/LA: What other obstacles does your team face this season?
Coach Cantu: We have an incredibly difficult schedule. We’re playing the best teams in America. Out of the top 25 teams, we’ve got games scheduled against 14. We’re going to grow up quickly whether we’re ready for it or not. We’re really excited.

/LA: How have the pre-season’s injuries affected the team’s progress?
Coach Cantu: We’ve had a lot of injuries, and we’re already behind because we’re such a young team. We’re anxious to get them all back on the floor.

/LA: Has this given other players a chance to shine?
Coach Cantu: Yeah. We’ve been able to see everyone on the team—what they can do. Everyone has been given the chance to step up.

/LA: Have there been times when injuries led to the new discovery of a player’s abilities?
Coach Cantu: Sure. It happens at practice. Sometimes you’ll notice that a player can give more to the team than what you had anticipated.

/LA: Any walk-ons?
Coach Cantu: Two or three walk-ons have been practicing with us because of the injuries. They’ve been tremendous. Once we get everybody back, we’ll get a better feel for who we are and what we are capable of doing.

With the first game under their belts, the Trojans have their work cut out for them. /LA will be there with exclusive insider info as they battle their way through the PAC-10.