Farmer Makes Noticeable Progress

Two distinct scenarios emerged from USC’s 74-69 victory over California.

One was freshman Desmon Farmer scoring nine points off the bench--including two baskets down the stretch to help hold off the Bears. The other was Farmer’s apparent willingness to come off the bench and contribute.

Farmer is the team’s most emotional player, and was clearly affected by the decision to replace him in the starting lineup with Jeff Trepagnier in January. He is also one of the Trojans’ most talented players despite his tendency to play outside the structure of the offense. At times, Foster has appeared lost in the Trojans’ defensive scheme.

But if the Trojans are to make a run in the postseason, they will need Farmer to accept his role and play well in it. “He brings a lot of energy and intensity to our team,” Brandon Granville said. “That’s something we need coming off the bench.”