USC football: Marqise Lee has work to do, Lane Kiffin says

USC star receiver Marqise Lee, who suffered a bone bruise in his right shoulder last week, will not be sidelined for a set period of time, Coach Lane Kiffin insisted to reporters Sunday.

“I’m not trying to trick to you guys,” Kiffin said. “It’s not a real serious deal. It really is day to day.”

Lee sat out for a second consecutive day and will not be rushed back, team officials said. He did not speak with reporters on Sunday.

Kiffin reiterated that after reviewing tape of last season, Lee is aware of “inconsistencies” in his game.

“He’s got to get back out here,” Kiffin said. “We cannot make that mistake -- and I think we’ve made that over the years -- just expecting guys [who] performed well to come out and do it.

“We’re not going to let that happen.”

Kiffin noted that Lee fumbled four times as a sophomore last season and must improve ball security.

“I know the guy’s won the Biletnikoff Award, and I know he’s a great player,” Kiffin said, “but he’s still young.”

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