Can small block oil pump be replaced without pulling the engine?

Shake the oil pick up when out. I had low oil pressure so I changed the pump. Pick up was full of old crumbled valve seals. I was a kid then and couldn't fiqure why my 71 340 Demon ran strong, no leaks but used a quart of oil a week! lol
Oh, yes, did it from underneath.
I have found the same problem with nylon timing gear pieces in the pickup making the oil idiot light come on.