Damien Mama could be part of history.

Throughout training camp, fellow freshman Toa Lobendahn has appeared on track to start at left guard for USC in the Aug. 30 opener against Fresno State.

Mama might make it two freshman starters on the line.

With Khaliel Rodgers questionable because of a knee sprain, Mama is taking first-team reps at right guard.


If Lobendahn and Mama are in the lineup against Fresno State, it would mark the first time in USC history that two freshmen offensive linemen start an opener.

The 6-foot-5 Mama, who played at Bellflower St. John Bosco High, said he has trimmed down from 397 pounds to 377.

“That 20 pounds has helped me a lot,” he said, adding that he had difficulty keeping up with teammates during summer workouts. “Now I feel good. They have me doing extra conditioning after practice, which has helped a lot.”