Published on Friday, August 08, 2008
By Pasadena Star Staff Writer
USC's coaching stafff made an official position change Thursday with longtime linebacker Clay Matthews moving to defensive end.
Matthews, who is from Agoura, was supposed to play defensive end in nickel situations this season but now will play the position full-time and rotate with sophomore Everson Griffen.
"They want me to know the position," Matthews said. "I'm going to the defensive line meetings now. We'll have different looks on defense. (Assistant coach Nick) Holt says we'll have a rotation."
Although he will only practice at defensive end, Matthews will also back up All-American Brian Cushing at the strongside linebacker position.
One player who needs to stay healthy right now is middle linebacker Rey Maualuga. Both of his backups, Chris Galippo and Luthur Brown, are sidelined with back injuries.
"I have no timetable," Brown said regarding a comeback.
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