Trojans Nation

Sanchez ditching school, might shatter USC's national title desire

2009-01-16T06:00:00.000-08:00

The school bells have rung a year earlier at USC. For good, junior quarterback Mark Sanchez is dismissed. He quarterbacked the Trojans to a joyful Rose Bowl pounding over Penn State. But, he apparently has seen enough of the campus life. School books are bygone, dreadful math classes are bygone, studying habits and class lectures are bygone. Now it’s on to the NFL, where Sanchez will turn pro, after deciding to forgo his senior season, to become a potential front runner in this year’s draft.

There are several teams in search of a quarterback. Detroit is searching for a quarterback. For Sanchez, it will be a bigger adjustment to go from champ to amateur. Or maybe, he might become the instrumental piece of the renovated Kansas City Chiefs, who’s in desperate search of a quarterback. His caliber is a perfect fit for new general manager Scott Pioli, the architect who’s responsible for the subtle era of Tom Brady. At the Rose Bowl Game, Sanchez illustrated that he can produce at the next level, and has similar features of Brady in New England.

So, will Sanchez go No. 1, No.2 or even higher? It’s obvious that the scouts have watched Sanchez over at USC last season. And it’s obvious that the Lions or Chiefs will keep close tabs on Sanchez. Because his stock has elevated to new heights since the Rose Bowl Game, Sanchez could get selected as the first pick in the draft to spend his rookie season as the Lions starter, and centerpiece to a rebuilding stage.

Surely, Sanchez will collect dollars and become rich from either franchise that selects the soon-to-be pro star as their quarterback. Both, the Lions, who finished their season winless, becoming the only team to finish with such a horrible record. For the most part, they manage to make history, well, in a negative fashion. And the Cheifs are needy as well. It’s about the necessities for the Lions and Chiefs. And Sanchez brings those necessities. He’s mobile, an accurate thrower, and has a strong arm, in which he can toss passes to either Kansas City’s Dwyane Bowe or either Detroit’s Calvin Johnson.

But, it’s not good news for the Trojans. Sanchez cautiously deliberated then finally decided to forgo his senior season for the cash, turning down education. Even USC’s coaching staff waved goodbye, offered greater turning points. Trojans offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian became Washington’s head coach, traveling to Seattle, following the Rose Bowl triumph performance. Being unfamiliar with an entirely new coaching staff can be tough. Next fall, the Trojans will have to adjust to the new installed offensive system. So, Sanchez could have decided to leave a year sooner because of the new coaching adjustments. Now to the next level, where he’ll have to adjust and learn a totally new playbook, unlike the thick one back at school. He left those behind, for a chance to revamp a struggling franchise.

Earlier in the month, Pete Carroll rebuilt a depleted coaching staff, when John Morton was promoted to offensive coordinator, after serving as assistant. He’ll instruct the play calling, and Carl Smith, who returns as quarterbacks coach and assistant head coach on offense, will develop either Mitch Mustin or Aaron Corp, who’ll both compete for the starting job as quarterback. I’m convince Sanchez left because of the unfamiliarity of a brand new staff, in which he would have had to get accustom to, learning new schemes, which would have called for adjustments. Another reason Sanchez adjudged to leave was because of increase in stock after the impressive performance at the Rose Bowl.

I don’t get the assumption that he left because of financial reasons, or even ego. But chances to gain a starting spot at the professional level, so Sanchez took advantage of the temptations, and if concerned about USC’s national title hopes next season, you have every lawful right. One individual concerned and deeply sore by Sanchez’s final choice was Pete Carroll, knowing the chances of USC’s national title hopes next season, if he returned for senior season. Now that Sanchez will pursue a career in the NFL, the Trojans will try to find ambition, and the better quarterback. I would say Mustin is. Before transferring to USC, he started eight games at Arkansas three year’s ago.

On the other hand, Corp is inexperience. And entering next fall, USC’s roster adds a freshman quarterback, a California native, Matt Barkley, who is the No. 1 player in the country, according to ESPNU 150, a list of the top 150 prospects in the nation.

During an emotional news conference, at Heritage Hall on the campus of USC, a teary eyed Mark Sanchez shared gratitude on Thursday, to announce that he was forgoing his senior season. He thanked teammates and coaching staff for the greatest three years.

Even though, Sanchez made the choice to ditch the campus life, and those boring textbooks, to start the business life, leaving behind the hungry Trojans, causes a bit of uncertainty and forces renovation for the Trojans, who will not be the same next fall, even though they will rank No. 2, in the country, a ranking Sanchez left for the Trojans, before making a decision to enter the draft.

It’s a disappointing moment at USC, particularly for Carroll.

2009 Rose Bowl Game: Trojans' championship cailber win merits larger than roses

2009-01-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

It was a victory for the roses, and a huge one at that.

Pete Carroll’s Trojans sent Joe Paterno’s Penn State home feeling empty. Happy Valley isn’t feeling too happy at this very moment. It’s the Trojans leaving with a bed full of roses and that heavy trophy. It’s the Trojans, proving that they are the best team in college football.

The Nittany Lions are leaving sore, after USC’s 38-24 victory. The Trojans won their third straight Rose Bowl game, since losing to Texas there before their impressive three game streak in the national title game. The victory made a significant point. The fifth-ranked Trojans are the real national champions.

Their performance at the Rose Bowl against Penn State avowed that they are this year’s champs. The top-ranked defense in the nation isn’t their only trademark. The Trojans is the nation’s top-ranked team.

Period! No ifs, ands, or buts. It’s a fact.

Five months ago, Oregon State upset win over the one-loss Trojans cost them a national title. Surely, if a playoff system was instituted, the Trojans probably would’ve matched against Florida or Oklahoma, two teams that both lost a game this season. But most fans would’ve adored watching USC versus Florida or Oklahoma.

The Trojans would’ve presented their tough physical defense against a high-powered offense. Florida and Oklahoma this year have relayed strongly on the offense. Both of them consist of great quarterbacks. At Florida, the Gators offensively are led by Tim Tebow, who finished third in the Heisman race. And the Sooners are led by Sam Bradford, the Heisman award winner.

But, everyone left USC’s Mark Sanchez stranded. He didn’t get the respect he deserved after losing that one game to the Beavers. Heisman chances declined and attention arise for Texas’ Colt McCoy, Tebow and Bradford.

On Thursday, Sanchez played as if he had just won the Heisman, leading the Trojans to their 5-0 record against Big 10 opponents in bowl games, now improving to 6-1 in big games that has a meaning. Under Carroll, the Trojans have won seven straight Pac-10 conference championships, to earn seven bowl game appearances.

Sanchez was named the offensive player of the game. For weeks, everyone talked about how naturally gifted the Trojans were defensively. Everyone classified them as the greatest defense of all times. Well, the offense looked just as good, playing against Penn State.

Honestly, let’s just say that the Trojans are the best and well-balanced team in college football. Despite Florida and Oklahoma meeting to capture the big one, the Trojans victory was much bigger than the game played on Jan. 8. In fact, the Rose Bowl game is a traditional game, and it’s the granddaddy of them all, so I’m more or less sure that this game gained lots of noteworthiness.

Penn State’s legendary coach JoePa just turned 82 years old, and just had hip replacement surgery. He stared looking down from the press box, where he saw long, deep, spiral passes thrown by Sanchez. It was the best game of his career, throwing for a career-high 413 yards and four touchdowns, setting a Rose Bowl record for the most completed passes.

The Trojans exploited their attack through the air, after running back Joe McKnight sustained an injury. So the strong-armed Sanchez changed the aspect for the Trojans, hurting Penn State defensively. For most of the night, Sanchez fired passes across the field as if it was a contest to see which quarterback can throw the farthest.

Without sighing roses, to think about it, Sanchez was the man, throwing the farthest. He threw a 27-yard scoring pass to wide receiver Damian Williams. Before halftime, he connected with Ronald Johnson, who's Sanchez's favorite target, for a 19-yard scoring pass. Then he found C.J. Cable for a 20-yard touchdown pass, to take a 24-point lead, taking advantage of Penn State’s miscues.

The Nittany Lions committed three turnovers and nine penalties, enabling Sanchez to have the biggest game in his career and the third player in Rose Bowl history to pass for more than 400 yards.

On the other side, the Trojans played as they usually had this entire season defensively. Their fierce and potent defense held Penn State a touchdown through halftime. It was a great way to finish a remarkable career for Rey Maualuga, an important All-American linebacker and defensive leader for the Trojans.

The Trojans aren’t just the greatest defensive team. They have the best team in this era, under Carroll. The Trojans is the greatest team, truthful they would’ve been a great match against Florida, and a match up everyone would’ve adored watching.

This game has just about everything, and roses

2009-01-01T09:40:00.000-08:00

Pete Carroll had the Trojans on the practice field to prepare for Joe Paterno of Penn State’s superb offense all week. They shouldn’t have needed much preparation defensively.

After all, the Trojans have the best defense in this era right?

Or do JoePa’s boys have the best defense this time of year?

In 34 bowl games, Penn State held opponents to 17 points or fewer 21 times. In three games, the Trojans shut out opponents. And held five scoreless in the second half, even rivals Norte Dame didn’t score until the final play of the third quarter.

Folks, you’re in for a good one. And one for the roses, it’s the Rose Bowl game. This game has just about everything a football game should have. It consisted of two remarkable coaches, both having excellent bowl resumes. In 43 years, Paterno of Penn State is 23-10-1 in bowl games, while Carroll is 5-2 in bowl games.

Paterno is old school and Carroll is hip, both having the tremendous respect for the game. They both have coached potent classes. Each dominating an era and each offered coaching jobs to the next level. But their zest for the game on the college level has propelled them to mentor two of the greatest school’s in college football history.

After undergone hip replacement surgery, Paterno will coach from the press box. But, Carroll will coach the Trojans from the sidelines. The Trojans enters the game with the nation’s top defense, which will probably unleash obstacles for the sixth-ranked Nittany Lions.

Statistically, Penn State has utilized their defense to a seventh consecutive Bowl Championship Series berth. The Trojans, on the other side, are 5-0 against Big Ten opponents under Carroll, with no wins fewer than 14 points.

Defensively, the Trojans have a powerfully defensive unit, with Rey Maualuga, All-American safety Taylor Mays and linebacker Brian Cushing are 9 ½ favorites playing in the fourth straight Rose Bowl game.

The Trojans will have a tough assignment, slowing down Penn State’s high-powered spread offense. Those guys like to run. A noticeable feature that the Nittany Lions have benefited with this season is their ground attack. They are dynamic offensively, behind running back Evan Royster and quarterback Daryll Clark, a guy who’s very versatile. He’s a team leader, accurate passer and very mobile in the pocket.

When I say this game has everything, I mean that from experience.

Penn State’s assignment is tougher than the Trojans. Here’s why.

The Trojans track record against Big Ten opponents helps gain confidence. The Trojans aren’t elated with playing for roses. And their defense is the best in a long time.

The Trojans have the upper hand over Penn State. Still it will be a nail-bitter, in a game that has everything you wish for. It's a game of competitiveness.

Carroll manipulates this cross-town rivalry rather than Neuheisel

2008-12-07T15:28:00.000-08:00

For two years, expectations have downsized at UCLA. For two years, the Bruins have been an outcast among the Pac-10, routinely USC finishes at the top of the Pac-10, and more importantly they always beat UCLA decisively, except two years ago when the Bruins upset victory sent the Trojans away in dismay and shock.

But since then, the Trojans have continued their strong dominance over their cross-town rivals. It seems more like a cross-town one-sided rivalry, and USC’s mastermind Pete Carroll manipulates the cross-rivalry showdown each time, both the Trojans and Bruins meet, either at the Rose Bowl or the Coliseum, scenery isn’t a factor. Instead, it’s the depth of the Trojans that’s the factor, after Carroll has done a sensational job in recruiting talented stars, and establishing a cogent defense.

This season, for the Trojans, there fiercest defense has met standards, shutting down nearly every opponent they battled against. It would be interesting to see the Trojans play against Oklahoma for the national title, a game which would display the nation’s top defense against the nation’s top offense, but one loss smudged their national title hopes.

After the Trojans loss to Oregon State in the biggest upset of the year, they never reclaimed their top-ranking seed, now having to settle for a Rose Bowl bid, where they will meet Joe Paterno and Penn State on New Year’s Day, assuring another New Year’s Day appearance at the Rose Bowl, this time against Penn State, should be an instant classic.

This season, Penn State had a sensational year finishing the season 11-1, as well as the Trojans after their 28-7 pounding over the Bruins. JoePa’s boys are well-balance on both sides of the field, offensively and defensively. As for the Trojans, they won in 2007 and 2008, routing against Big Ten Conference opponents, a conference they have faired well against, but Penn State won’t be an easy assignment.

We’ll just have to wait and see what happens on New Year’s Day, though the Trojans have a huge advantage to win the game because of their relentless defense.

Aside from that, the Bruins never had monopoly over the Trojans. Instead the Trojans had monopoly, continuing to outsmart and outplay the Bruins. Clearly, the Bruins are outclassed by the Trojans, and overall they are a much better team than their cross-town foes, winning nine of their last 10 games against the Bruins.

For along time now, the Trojans have had control of the driver seat in the Los Angeles area, without a pro football team in sight, the city turned to USC football, and they have convinced mostly everyone year after year, taking a lot of fan base away from UCLA. Also, they have dominated the Pac-10 for seven straight years now, and now are seeking to extend their record against the Big 10 to 5-0 with a victory over Penn State in the Rose Bowl games.

On Saturday, USC opted to wear their cardinal home jerseys in the rivalry game for the first time since 1982, to restore tradition, forcing them to lose a timeout. But Rick Neuheisel took a timeout early in the game to even things up with Carroll.

There were lots of family ties in this game. It was Neuheisel’s first year as head coach of the Bruins, in his first year he brought Norm Chow, an offensive guru who was the former USC’s offensive coordinator where he became an icon and legendary offensive expert, helping the Trojans win two national championships, before leaving for the NFL, to become a Tennessee Titan offensive coordinator.

But, Neuheisel decided to bring in Chow, to install a dynamic offense to compete in the Pac-10 against the Trojans. The Bruins last season was expected to cause problems for the Trojans, but they unraveled, finishing with a 6-7 record that cost coach Karl Dorrell his job.

Suddenly, Dorrell watch his former team miss out on a bowl game. Last year, the Bruins managed to win enough games to bid for a bowl, but under Neuheisel, they couldn’t win enough games to become eligible to play in a bowl game.

Still, the Bruins have a lot to accomplish before they overhaul Carroll’s Trojans, but the Bruins are a work in progress. When tailback C.J. Gable fumbled on USC’s opening drive, the Bruins responded with a trickery against a strong Trojan’s defense.

With Chow calling the offensive schemes from the press box, restored historically memories among most USC fans. Absolutely, Chow’s familiarity was difference maker in the game, after designing a double-pass offensive trickery. Receiver Dominique Johnson wobbled a 21-yard toss to a leaping Kahlil Bell for a touchdown.

It was a brilliant game plan that Chow designed to delude his old-time friend Carroll. It was the Bruins longest touchdown of the year, and the most spectacular offense play of the year. But their 7-0 edge was withdrawn quickly.

Often this season, Joe McKnight has been compared to former star Reggie Bush for his sensational performance, adding another sensational game to his column, with a 12-yard touchdown run to tie the game. He led the ground game, rushing 15 times for 99 yards, and exuberant tailback, Stafon Johnson, scored on a two yard run.

Evidently, the Trojans still is the best team in the Pac-10, and the best team in town. The Trojans outgained UCLA with 478 yards to 157. Each time the Trojans play the Bruins, the games are normally lopsided, which has been the status for the last two years.

Currently, Carroll has the best of this rivalry. And Neuheisel needs time before the Bruins develop into a dominate opponent against the Trojans. Still, they are inexperience, but the Trojans have sense of awareness of what it takes to be a champion, for the Bruins they are still learning the ropes.

Of course, Neuheisel is the right guy to guide the Bruins, with his experience he brings a lot of ambition to UCLA, looking to improve the inexperience Bruins, but Carroll will have the advantage for quite some time.

Chow familiar with Trojans, offensive schemes could hatch problems

2008-12-05T01:29:00.000-08:00

One for the roses and one look to shrivel those roses.

On Saturday, USC will try to win their season-finale against crosstown rivals, UCLA, with a win over their neighbors, the Trojans will clinch a Rose Bowl berth and their seventh straight Pac-10 title, but the Bruins look to shrivel those buds, before they blossom into roses.

This year, for the first time, a former coach will root against them and coach against them, UCLA’s offensive coordinator, Norm Chow, a savvy offensive specialist who studies his X’s and O’s. He’s one of the top offensive coaches in football history, and will strive to prove he’s still the expert of installing a productive offense, with an inferior program.

Chow is identical to USC’s recruiting expertise, Pete Carroll, an architect who installed his passing offense with a thick playbook. For Chow, leading his subjacent offense against his former team might react a bit differently.

With Chow’s familiarity, after spending four seasons as offensive coordinator at USC, he understands Carroll’s game plan and style of coaching. He knows Carroll’s playbook as if it’s his old playbook that he left behind when he left the Trojans for a better opportunity.

After leaving USC, Chow advanced to newer heights, taking his game plan to the NFL, to join the Tennessee Titans’ staff, where he served as offensive coordinator for the past three years. At Tennessee, Chow built Vince Young into a shrewd quarterback, when he had just made his transition from college to the professional level.

For Chow, the game will be an emotional one, on an afternoon when he will reunite with his former colleague from a separate press box, where he’ll call his brilliant plays to befuddle his good buddies at USC. Although, UCLA isn’t playing for much, they can still prevent the Trojans from clinching the Rose Bowl and clinching their seventh straight Pac-10 title.

And, Chow’s successful offensive tactics is the best alternative to accomplish the upset over the Trojans. He knows every gimmick that Carroll will throw at him, and he surely will throw them back at the Trojans if capable.

Chow’s offensive capabilities will probably be limited against a fierce Trojans defense that has amassed historic numbers this season, only allowing 10 touchdowns in 11 games and an NCAA-low 7.8 points per game this season.

The Trojans are the lone team in the nation to yield fewer points per game in any of the last 13 seasons. This is the year the Trojans defense was ranked the top in the nation, in which they have proven.

And, the Trojans have won eighth straight games since losing in an upset against Oregon State in the conference opener on Sept. 25. The Trojans are eying their top challenger, Oregon State, for the conference crown after their meltdown last Saturday, which put the Trojans in the driver seat for another Rose Bowl appearance on Jan. 1 in Pasadena.

But, with Chow’s well awareness on the Trojans schemes, it might be a tough outing, but then again it might be another breezy victory and another Rose Bowl appearance, particularly since UCLA has inconsistent freshman quarterback, Kevin Craft, who’s very careless when the Bruins have possession. He has thrown 19 interceptions and just has seven touchdown completions on the year.

Yes, UCLA’s head coach Rick Neuheisel, who asked Chow to join his coaching staff, and Chow, have a huge challenge against USC, but the Trojans have a slight challenge as well, facing their one time offensive whiz who’s now their offensive rival.

It isn’t tough to predict USC to come away with the win, but it’s tough to predict Chow’s schemes. One for the roses, while the other attempts to cause a major upset. This time, Neuheisel and Chow looks to cause a major upset, while USC looks to remain the best in the crosstown rivalry.

With Chow, property of the Bruins, the rivalry enlarges. And, the Trojans on offense will enlarge, to break down Chow’s offense, at least for this season.

Fifth-ranked Trojans' fierceness, has Beavers sighing lifeless roses

2008-11-30T18:35:00.000-08:00

One more victory and USC will inhale the beautiful smell of roses, of course it isn’t what the Trojans had scripted, but they’ll accept another trip to the Rose Bowl on Jan. 1 and another Pac-10 title, a title they have dominated for seven years.

For years now, the Trojans have dominated Notre Dame as well, even when a scuffle occurs near the locker before both teams took the field, which nearly turned into a brawl during pregame warm ups on an emotional night at the Coliseum.

It was senior night for the Trojans and an on-field scuffle made matters worst for the Irish, giving the Trojans more exasperation and initiative to present their potent defense to the struggling Irish.

The Trojans didn’t evince any tenderness and played with an unsympathetic performance, unlike early in the year, when they underestimated Oregon State at Corvallis, the Beavers came away with the upset, in a season where the Trojans were favorites to win a national title.

But, the focal point was the defense of the Trojans, their defense looked impressive and it was one of the greatest defensive performances in history, before a crowd of 90,689 at the Coliseum and they were in for a good one.

The Trojans didn’t give up a first down until the last play of the third quarter, losing their second consecutive shutout against Notre Dame, but that didn’t matter to the Trojans, a team that was seeking to stay alive and eligible for a BCS game.

Now, the Trojans control their destiny for another Rose Bowl appearance, heading into next weeks crosstown rivalry showdown with UCLA, if they win they’ll clinch a Rose Bowl berth, but if they lose they’ll have to bid for another bowl game as Oregon State will reclaim possession to play in the Rose Bowl.

In the firs half the Trojans defense held the Irish, intercepting sophomore quarterback, Jimmy Clausen, twice and limited them to nine yards, the Irish finished with 91 total yards and only converted two of 14 third downs.

Clausen completed 11 of 22 passes for only 41 yards, the Trojans defense seemed to cause problems for the Irish. Linebackers Rey Maualuga, Brain Cushing, Kaluka Maiava and cornerbacks Cary Harris and Josh Pinkard made the contest forlorn for the Irish.

It even added more pressure on the embattled Coach, Charlie Weis, who’s on the hot seat, losing to the Trojans in a demoralizing way, might have ended his tenure at Notre Dame.

The defense gave the Trojans a break on offense, they struggled initially quarterback Mark Sanchaz, when he throw his first pass for an interception, but the ground game demoralized the Irish, running the distance when ever USC’s prolific running backs were handed the ball.

Suddenly, Oregon State lost their flamboyancy when their in-state rivals, Oregon came to Corvallis. Running back, Jeremiah Johnson, led the quack attack, with 15 carries for 219 yards and a touchdown, deflating the Beavers hopes to earn a chance to make a Rose Bowl appearance.

Without talented running back Jacquizz Rodgers, who leads the Pac-10 in rushing and his 12th in the nation sat out with a shoulder injury, which harmed the Beavers ability to rush effectively, but for the Trojans, his absence came in handy, after they got helped from the Ducks of Oregon.

For the Trojans, it revived hope in a bed full of roses. Absolutely they’ll accept a trip to the Rose Bowl for a Granddaddy good time.

Trojans unlikely to get a bed full of roses, now OSU rose respectable

2008-11-25T11:54:00.001-08:00

Roses are shriveling for USC, but the roses are blossoming for Oregon State.

Since Oregon State’s upsetting win over the No.5 Trojans, they haven’t earned much respect, a team at the beginning of the season which was projected to be Pete Carroll’s best class, have turned into a BCS bust. And now, the thorns hurt on the roses.

The Beavers fought harder than the Trojans, on September 25, 2008 at Reser Stadium at a dreadful town, Corvallis, an unfathomable environment that has victimized them seemingly on the even years, in 2006, the Trojans were stunned by the Beavers. And, once again this year, which resulted in a national title demolition.

The one-loss Trojans could possibly be a BCS victim of fraud, but there’s no playoff system, not this year, or maybe for a long-time. But, they haven’t earned much deliberation at possibly earning a trip to the BCS National Championship Game, the closest they are to a BCS game is the Rose Bowl, but the roses don’t smell too engaging.

This year, the Trojans are unlikely to return to Granddaddy of them all, the Rose Bowl, after appearing in the traditional game for the last three years, the Beavers are elites of the Pac-10. They have earned the respect and have taking the initiative to prove to the nation that the Trojans aren’t the only one’s elite in the Pac-10, after upsetting them, ending their national title hopes.

Two months ago, the Beavers for the first time in 41 years knocked off a top-ranked seed, entering the contest as 25-point underdogs, losing ruined the Trojans chances at going unbeaten, but the Beavers didn’t feel sympathy, while believing, they secured a 27-21 upset defeat over the Trojans.

It was grievous for the Trojans, a night that darkened promptly and a season which slowly ended as the lost has finally came back to deprive them late in the season, now generating a change of scenery for the Beavers, with another win against Oregon on Saturday, they can clinch their first trip to their first Rose Bowl since 1965.

For the Trojans, their next game is critical, they’ll play host to Notre Dame, a team that just received their worst upsetting loss against Syracuse, while the Trojans still need a loss from Oregon State, but with a Beavers’ win, it would be the first time the Beavers have won eight Pac-10 games and they’ll get a rematch against Joe Paterno and Penn State at the Rose Bowl.

Beavers 8-3 overall, 7-1 in Pac-10 has had a stellar year, leads in receiving yards and rushing yards, in the upset over the Trojans, sensational freshman running back, Jacquizz Rodgers, who missed the game against Arizona, sidelined with a shoulder injury, wasn’t startled by the Trojans high-powered defense, after rushing for 186 yards on 37 carries with two touchdowns, ending a probable run for the Trojans.

Rodgers leads the Pac-10 in rushing yards with 1,253 this year. He has Heisman potential in the near future, if he continues to amass yards as he has. And wide receiver, Sammie Stroughter, leads the conference in receiving yards with a total of 807.

The Beavers have won six straight, the last one against Arizona was a bit compelling when Justin Kahut needed a second try for redemption after missing a potential tying extra point late in the fourth quarter, in extra, he booted a 24-yard to inch the Beavers a game closer to roses.

For USC, the BCS rankings are currently out of their control, the best option is to win against Notre Dame, which shouldn’t cause many problems for them, the Irish coach, Charlie Weis, is on the hot seat at Notre Dame, after they were humiliated in the loss to Boston College and embarrassingly stunned against Syracuse.

The Trojans primary concern should be playing the Irish, while hoping for a Beavers lost, which probably won’t happen, the Beavers will most likely beat the Oregon in the rivalry, if they have Rodgers back.

He’s a reliable tool on the Beavers’ offense and has been a running threat to most teams in the Pac-10, the Ducks certainly can’t prevent him from gaining yards, but they can try to contain him, which will probably be a tough task for Oregon to handle.

Good luck, Trojans, with a victory or no victory, it will take a miracle to earn a bid to a bed full of roses.

Trojans long-awaited this moment of resiliency, sending payback to Stanford

2008-11-16T19:13:00.000-08:00

You, heard lyrics of the Trojans theme song fight on, playing against Stanford required those lyrics.

This game was poetic, when they encountered Stanford for the first time since last years darken spirit that has haunted them until last night.

For a year, Trojans’ fans have long-awaited this night, for two reasons: revenge and survival against a team that destroyed their national title hopes, now seeking revenge certainly was their main approach against Stanford.

Well, they capture vengeance, after everyone remembered that somber night of Oct. 6 2007, the biggest upset in college football history. The underdogs, Stanford possessed a 24-23 defeat, hurting them in every shape and form.

Now, they were adequate to return the hardship to the Cardinal on their own turf, avoiding a similar scenario from last year, elimination from BCS contention, on Saturday the Trojans earned redemption as fans embraced payback.

They paid their dues, staying in the national title chase, after a firm second-half to capture a decisive 45-23 victory, obviously restoring confidence and exult. Still, they haven’t moved up in the polls, remaining at No. 6.

Clearly, they don’t have a top 5 seed, after none of the top 5 schools loss this week. I mentioned, last week in a blog that the Trojans are playing the game against the BCS, meaning they’ll need a team to blunder.

Most importantly, they routed Stanford, keeping hopes alive. But their hopes could’ve possibly lapsed, if they didn’t get a strong ground game. If I wanted someone to send me a package at first priority, I would want C.J. Gable or Stafon Johnson to sprint the package to my front porch.

Both, illustrating that last years Stanford victory was flukish, replicating a usual pounded. After seeming a bit futile early, they strolled from behind, tying the score 17-17, in the first half, regrouping from a preview of last years humiliating lost.

The Trojans exchanged sequences, scoring 28 unanswered points before the Cardinal scored a touchdown on their final possession. Indeed, they weren’t about to have what happened to them last year, a last minute game-winning touchdown to spoil their ambition.

Wisely, blowing the game open relieved them from facing any misfortune, after a dynamic running game kept them away from distress and kept them away from another demoralizing scene.

Foremost, beating Stanford seemed as if they won the national title. It was resiliency and optimism, after winning their seventh consecutive victory, improving record to 9-1 overall and 7-1 in Pac 10 en route to winning another conference title.

Also, they’re in the mix for the Rose Bowl, the Grand Daddy of them all, still I’m sure the Trojans don’t won’t to play for the Grand Daddy, they won’t to play for the Grand Papa, meaning they won’t to play for the national title.

But, sustaining the BCS title game, still remains out of the conversation among the Trojans, their gratifying performance against Stanford was very convincing arguing with the BCS.

Tailback Johnson, Joe McKnight and Gable combined for dramatic 282 yards. A kickoff return for 93 yards by Gable tied the game at 17 all.

The Trojans rushed for just 39 yards on 13 tries in the first half alone, but offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian brilliant play calling, strategized 30 running plays in the second half, when they piled 243 yards rushing alone.

Johnson scored a seven-yard touchdown run, giving the Trojans a 24-17 lead with 2 minutes left in the third quarter. Gable sparked a 70-yard scoring drive before reaching the end zone on a three-yard run for a 31-17 lead.

They even overpowered, sensational freshman, Toby Gerhart, former Norco High star, gained 101 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. It just wasn’t enough against a dominated running game by the Trojans.

What you just saw from the Trojans, was fighting hard, earning back their recognition, respect and revenge after defeating Stanford.

They’re still alive, particularly their running game which has awoken out of nowhere.

One-loss Trojans versus BCS

2008-11-09T14:55:00.001-08:00

Joe Paterno and Penn State was hysterical after losing to Iowa by a point. Nick Saban and Alabama was relieved after beating Louisiana State, learning they didn’t have to hear the hoopla after the game on Saban’s return to Baton Rouge.

When USC took the field against California late Saturday afternoon, facing huge bowl implications, they knew what was at stake, win big and jump drastically into the top 5 polls.

The Trojans, a one-loss team seeking to reclaim a top 5 spot since their embarrassing loss to Oregon State, but fizzling to win big against the Golden Bears, might have just hurt their chances of retaining a national title.

On Sunday afternoon, the AP poll was reveled and much hasn’t changed in the Trojans perspective, accept the fact they’ve jumped up to No. 6, but they still haven’t reached a top 5 ranking. For weeks, they’ve chased and fought hard, but apparently the BCS felt it wasn’t enough.

Otherwise, the Trojans will have earned a spot back in the top 5 and a greater chance at chasing a national title. They demolished Washington last week, then beat Arizona by a touchdown the week before and pulverized Washington State two weeks ago.

None of those were victories that matter to the computer, but last weeks decisive victory mattered to USC’s coach Pete Carroll, who said last week during a conference that the BCS stunk. Perhaps, there’s a way to get rid of the reeking odor, winning big.

It wasn’t very convincing to see the Trojans win 17-3 against Cal, only winning by a score of two touchdowns, didn’t solve any ramifications after No. 3 Florida’s win against Vanderbilt was more convincing and Alabama managed to escape a dicey scene as well as Coach Nick Saban, who would’ve probably been disparaged by the LSU faithful.

Surely, the Trojans would’ve probably earned a spot within the top 5 rankings if Alabama or Florida would’ve faltered.

Once again, the Trojans counted on their high-profile defense while their offense seemed subpar, failing to pile up the scoreboards. Mark Sanchez threw two touchdown passes to lead the offense, but the defensive unit was tremendous, holding Cal to 27-yards rushing.

For the sixth time this season, they held their opponent to under 10 points, the most games in single-digits in nearly four decades. And though the Trojans offense seemed precarious, they have outscored their opponents 187-13 in their last five games.

With the Trojans having ramifications, it seems to be the right month for them. Under Carroll, they’re 25-0 and in November and have won 27 straight home night games.

Holding Cal’s dynamic running back Jahvid Best 30 yards on 13 carries capped resiliency for the
Trojans, and a couple touchdowns secured their national title hopes.

On the downside, the Trojans were penalized 10 times for 105 yards, which has been an issue during the course of the season. They’ve been penalized 77 times for 178 yards.

The Trojans didn’t make any progress by rising in the polls, but they made progress by pulling away from Cal. And they might have a chance to chase the national title with a huge win sooner than later.

They've to beat the system and they can't let the system beat them. The best way to beat the system is to win and hope for a top 5 school to lose.

It's the Trojans against the PC.

Trojans can't beat the BCS

2008-11-05T21:12:00.001-08:00

In college football, they have reached an error with their lousy computers, but getting rid of the perpetuous PC’s can solve college football's and USC's tribulations.

The best way to get rid of BCS systems are destroying them or either creating a virus which will cause a major crash.

Then dispose it in a waste bin. Once they are disposed then they can pursue in creating a playoff system.

Southern California beat winless Washington on Saturday in a 56-0 shutout, a victory which didn’t serve for any purpose. Instead of improving, it seemed the Trojans got worst.

Yes, the Trojans got worst and were deprived by technology. After losing a game to Oregon State, their season is possibly tarnished after a team ended what was suppose to be the Trojans year to win another national title.

Seemingly, Coach Pete Carroll is nonplus about the BCS system. He said “it stinks.” Certainly the BCS system reeks, which is why they need to toss those fraud computers in the garbage.

Apparently, the Trojans can’t beat the system after dropping from No. 5 to No. 7 in the aftermath of their third shutout victory in four weeks, winning a decisive game over Washington should have placed them somewhere within the top 5.

But with the strength of the Big 12 and Southeastern Conferences, No. 2 Texas Tech and No. 4 Florida jumped to Nos. 2 and 5, playing against tough opponents while the Trojans have had a light schedule.

Losing to Oregon State once again in Corvallis, hurt their national title abilities. And now, the Trojans have to fight on to get back to the top, where they were expected to remain. It won’t be easy to get back on top.

If anything it will be difficult after schools such as No. 5 Texas, No. 3 Penn State, No. 1 Alabama and Texas Tech has really surprise many this year. There are lots of schools with natural abilities this year and the Trojans ineffectiveness against the Beavers may have just broken their dream of reaching the national stage.

However, it’s just one game and the Trojans lost and if they were to get rid of the BCS and institute a playoff system then everyone will get a better understanding on the true champion.

Without a playoff system, we’re unable to really perceive which team is the true champion. With a playoff system, college football will crown the true champion and it’s a fair game.

The Trojans will have an equivalent chance just as every other team in the playoffs to win. And it won’t only be determined by a lousy regular-season lost.

Barrack Obama, who was elected as the 44th President and the first African American to win the election, said he’s fed up with the BCS system and that college football needs to institute a playoffs system.

By instituting a playoff system, we won’t have to hear the Trojans or coaches whining and we will learn the legitimate champion.

Hey! Maybe the legitimate champion might be the Trojans.