True freshman defensive tackle Jonathan English has earned playing time in a reserve role this season, a rare feat for a player at the position. This week, English and his teammates will take on USC in a Thanksgiving showdown with Rose Bowl and potential National Championship implications. We spoke with English about the game and more following a recent practice.

This is a huge game and for you it has an added bit of significance with USC featuring running back Joe McKnight, a very close friend (McKnight and English lived together for two years) and former high school teammate right?

"It's big. You've got to treat it as another game though. Obviously you want to win. You've got to go out there and do what we've practiced all week. That's the main thing. You can't get too involved any of the other stuff. You can worry about that after."

Has there been any trash talk or joking around between the two of you?

"There hasn't been none yet. I guess it's going to be during the game."

When is the last time you spoke with him?


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