LOS ANGELES >> Before Nico Falah unexpectedly emerged as USC’s starting center in his fourth season, before he provided a steady presence for a rejuvenated offense, it seemed like less of a long shot.
“We’ve never coached a lineman that had Nico Falah’s athletic ability,” said Chad Johnson, the offensive coordinator at St. John Bosco, the high school in Bellflower that regularly ushers football players to NCAA Division I colleges.
Each spring and summer, Johnson, who doubles as the program’s strength and conditioning coach, led players through cardio training and agility drills.
The 20-yard shuttle run opened his eyes.