Defense stands out at USC spring game

Published Apr. 23, 2011 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Southern California's defense jumped all over Matt Barkley's offense in the Trojans' spring game, winning 42-29 Saturday in the annual Coliseum scrimmage wrapping up spring practice.

Curtis McNeal rushed for 107 yards and two touchdowns, while Dillon Baxter rushed for 104 yards and threw a touchdown pass to Barkley on the final trick play of a defense-dominated showcase of coach Lane Kiffin's second team at USC.

Kiffin says the defense exceeded his expectations despite playing without several likely starters who sat out with injuries.

USC's offense never got rolling without receiver Robert Woods, who sat out after tweaking his ankle while shooting hoops Friday. Barkley passed for 212 yards, but threw two interceptions.