Steve Sarkisian denies Trojans’ blocking technique caused OSU injuries
USC Coach Steve Sarkisian on Wednesday disputed an Oregon State assistant coach who questioned the Trojans’ blocking technique on plays in which Beavers’ players suffered injuries.
Oregon State defensive linemen Jalen Grimble and Noke Tago suffered knee injuries during USC’s 35-10 victory last week at the Coliseum.
“You don’t know if it was done on purpose or not,” defensive coordinator Mark Banker told reporters in Oregon on Tuesday, Oregonlive.com reported, “but I just think the technique was questionable.”
Sarkisian said he had reviewed tape of the plays and “totally disagree(s)” that the blocks on the play were questionable.
“Quite honestly, it was incidental contact,” Sarkisian said, adding, “It’s unfortunate that he feels that way. I’ll give Mark a call and I’ll clear the air.”
USC plays Arizona State on Saturday at the Coliseum.
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