USC’s Antwaun Woods has plenty of company in final season

Defensive lineman Antwaun Woods is breathing a bit easier in his final training camp at USC and it isn’t just because the fifth-year senior knows the routine.

Woods said Wednesday that there are more players waiting in line during drills than in any other season he’s been at USC.

“It is great just to see all the guys, just see them grow and get better each day,” Woods said.

USC returns eight scholarship linemen, including Woods and Delvon Simmons, who will start for their third and second seasons, respectively.

The Trojans also have added five freshmen.

It will be a group effort, USC Coach Steve Sarkisian said, for the group to fill the hole left by Leonard Williams, who is now with the New York Jets.

Woods has played a large part in that effort, Sarkisian and several teammates have said.

“I embrace the role,” Woods said. “Started it last year and just want to make sure I do everything I can for the team in my last year.”

USC opens against Arkansas State on Sept. 5 at the Coliseum.

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