Charles Burks’ time finally could be coming.
After one season spent as a redshirt and two-plus more as mostly a special-teams player, Burks is in line for a bigger role when USC visits Washington State on Saturday.
Scott Felix will replace the injured J.R. Tavai at “Rush” linebacker. But Trojans coach Steve Sarkisian said Burks, a redshirt junior from Edison High, and Quinton Powell probably will have a chance to showcase their pass-rushing skills against the most pass-heavy offense in college football.
“That’s what they did in high school,” Sarkisian said. “And this game lends itself to them being able to play to their strengths.”
Burks and Powell have played sparingly on defense this season; Burks has yet to record a tackle. But the idea of coming off the edge in pursuit of Cougars quarterback Connor Halliday is enticing.
“It’s my favorite thing to do in the world,” Burks said. “I just love to get after the quarterback.”
That route is a lot shorter than Burks’ path to meaningful playing time at USC. The experience is different for everyone.
“Some guys get to be the most glorified player, like a Leonard Williams,” Sarkisian said. “Other guys have a longer journey, a longer road, like a Charles Burks.
“But each and every one of those guys is respected in our locker room, and they all look forward to their opportunities when they get a chance to go make their plays. Hopefully Charles gets some this weekend.”