tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21710385633285468242011-11-19T05:02:32.484-08:00A Return of the KingTrojan Horsenoreply@blogger.comBlogger4311100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-88868864010663807962009-04-08T23:31:00.000-07:002009-04-08T23:35:39.375-07:00

The Trojan Empire has moved from blogspot to Wordpress. All blogspot content has been exported to the new location, and all future posts will be exclusive to the new home. Though the new spot is still under construction, you can still visit and subscribe to the new feed.THE TROJAN EMPIRE

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-24503004901535863762009-04-03T15:17:00.000-07:002009-04-03T15:20:30.722-07:00

As the NFL draft moves closer, we squint in smoke filled skies to get a glimpse of team intentions. February brings a list of franchise needs, and free agency will scratch items from the notepad. And by April, the shopping list should be condensed. But the pattern fails to materialize, as big boards display prospect growth, and the annual game of cat and mouse remains intact. We are guided by

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-3014950264091376182009-03-28T15:15:00.000-07:002009-03-28T15:37:30.376-07:00

The Cincinnati Bearcats have petitioned the NCAA for 2009 eligibility of wide receiver Vidal Hazelton. Under the current NCAA rules, the Southern California transfer must sit out a season before becoming part of the active roster in 2010. The basis for the petition is Hazelton's need to move closer to his grandfather, who resides in Georgia and is diagnosed with cancer.

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-62051988076672503612009-03-22T23:30:00.000-07:002009-03-22T23:35:51.582-07:00

If anyone is interested in attending any of the spring practice sessions, here are the dates and times:March 28, Saturday, 10:30 a.m.March 31, Tuesday, 4 p.m.April 2, Thursday, 4 p.m.April 3, Friday, 4 p.m.April 5, Sunday, TBAApril 7, Tuesday, 4 p.m.April 9, Thursday, 4 p.m.April 11, Saturday, Coliseum (CLOSED to the public)April 14, Tuesday, 4 p.m.April 16, Thursday, 4 p.m.April 17, Friday, 4

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-10493840339511935842009-03-16T21:06:00.000-07:002009-03-16T21:08:25.517-07:00

The 40-yard dash has become the highlight of every pre-draft workout. From the NFL scout combine to individual pro-days, Americans have developed a fascination for watching prospects stripped of pads, and often lighter than their playing weight, run full speed in a straight line. And regardless of what some critics may believe, this measurement of speed, depending on position, does have an impact

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-2254156596948861452009-03-12T21:44:00.000-07:002009-03-12T21:47:53.348-07:00

The USC football program continues to challenge Balfour to brainstorm new creations for the Rose Bowl Ring. I recently got a look at the latest edition for the 7-time defending Pac 10 champions (from USCripsit), and I must say it’s pretty sweet. This is version No. 4 for the Men of Troy, in the past 6 seasons, with each having a slight change in design. One obvious alteration is the single

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-27756080254122718122009-03-06T18:46:00.000-08:002009-03-06T18:58:11.765-08:00

Still recovering from the dislocation of 4 toes, Joe McKnight will not be available for spring practice. He suffered the injury during the January 1st Rose Bowl. McKnight missed the 2008 spring practices with academic issues, before rejoining the team in the Summer. Considered to be one of the most dynamic running backs in college football, injuries have often played their part in keeping him

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-16027498219502281512009-03-02T02:22:00.000-08:002009-03-02T02:25:07.745-08:00

Watching Matt Cassel’s rise from the depths of obscurity is an amazing story in itself. But for one particular observer, there’s a personal connection and offering of hope. That person is USC quarterback Mitch Mustain, who oddly enough finds himself walking a similar path, though the upcoming spring and summer months may offer a shortcut.Cassel never started a game as a Trojan, and neither has

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-39563117801917379682009-02-28T15:25:00.000-08:002009-03-14T21:32:02.881-07:00

2009 MOCK VERSION 2.01.Detroit Lions- Matthew Stafford, QB, GeorgiaPrevious: Matthew StaffordBy all indications, Daunte Culpepper is scheduled to be the starting quarterback for the Lions in 2009. Looking into the future, Detroit will select Stafford with the first overall pick and prepare him to lead the franchise by 2010. The Motor City is also in need of help on the offensive line, but

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-68257204123309457152009-02-28T11:37:00.000-08:002009-03-06T18:59:36.302-08:00

The New England Patriots dealt quarterback Matt Cassel to the Chiefs on Saturday. Though many mock drafts had Mark Sanchez penciled to land in Kansas City with the third overall pick, I never saw the possibility or sense in it. Matt Cassel increased his value last season, guiding the Patriots to 11 wins as a replacement for the injured Tom Brady. He was franchise tagged by New England,

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-63570859306832158472009-02-27T00:43:00.000-08:002009-02-27T01:07:15.289-08:00

Depending on whom you ask, Brian Cushing can be described in many ways. I find him easiest to define as a tree trunk with vision and speed. He has the look of physical perfection, a product of many hours and years in the gym. But with every muscle defined, and his prowess on the football field, there has also been rumors and speculation that he was assisted in reaching his physical goals.I

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-27459636584908460822009-02-26T01:29:00.000-08:002009-02-26T02:23:28.917-08:00

It’s been quite a journey for Clay Matthews III. Despite his famous bloodline, he’s never been given a free football pass. His father and uncle are captured forever in the history of the school he attends, as both men are members of the USC Athletic Hall of Fame. His uncle, Bruce, also appears in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, as a 14-time Pro Bowl selection in a spectacular 19 year career. And

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-78834928571566727002009-02-24T18:22:00.000-08:002009-02-24T19:04:54.162-08:00

Meeting Lendale White on a football field is likely a violent collision. And according to reports out of Denver, meeting him in traffic can be the same. A Colorado fender bender on February 14th apparently resulted in a heated exchange between the former Trojan and the driver of the other vehicle involved. The allegations claim that pushing and shoving became more violent when White began

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-80677007431753861742009-02-23T13:55:00.000-08:002009-02-23T14:09:00.863-08:00

Rey Maualuga ran a first attempt 4.83 in the scout combine’s 40-yard dash. He never received a second attempt, pulling up lame at the finish, and collapsing to the turf with a tweaked hamstring. Maualuga said it was something that had been bothersome before his arrival to Indianapolis, but didn’t want to make excuses, wanting only to compete with the best. It’s unsure at this point whether he’

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-67869524049418408002009-02-21T18:37:00.000-08:002009-02-21T19:37:12.732-08:00

The NFL combine events have begun, but tight ends were the skill players mostly on Saturday's display. South Carolina's Jared Cook proved to be the superior athlete at the position, displaying a 41" vertical leap and posting an official 4.5 in the 40-yard dash. The big name among tight ends, Brandon Pettigrew of Oklahoma State, performed miserably. His 40 time was in the 4.8 range and he

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-41955166023678545372009-02-20T16:14:00.000-08:002009-02-20T16:48:40.939-08:00

Utah wasn’t completely shutout of championship award ceremonies. Collegefootballtalk.com has chosen the Mountain West program as their 2008 college football champions. Sure, it won’t be recognized by the gridiron shot-callers, but it just becomes another trophy unrecognized by the NCAA, the organization with the most importance. It adds another piece of hardware to a trash barrel and marks

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-61271135457365531202009-02-20T12:17:00.000-08:002009-02-20T12:22:33.160-08:00

Bryce Brown isn’t scheduled to make an official announcement of his college choice until March 16, but it’s more clear that he won’t be suited in cardinal and gold. The nation’s top running back prospect, who originally gave a verbal to Miami, allowed signing day to come and go, without signing a letter of intent. He comprised a short list of potential candidates that showed LSU, USC, Miami,

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-47497212324331255042009-02-18T20:25:00.000-08:002009-02-18T20:37:25.822-08:00

The NFL experience hasn’t been great for Winston Justice. Character issues created a 2006 draft day slide that finally came to a halt with the eagles selecting the big tackle in the second round. He made headlines in his first and only start, but for all the wrong reasons. His debut on September 30, 2007 is noted in the books, as the Giants tied an NFL record with 12 sacks, and Justice

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-87434433973545851682009-02-15T23:48:00.001-08:002009-02-16T00:08:32.440-08:00

The NFL draft is a touchy situation for quarterback hopefuls. More than any other position, team need stands the greatest determining factor of a young signal caller’s descent. You can appear near the top of a list of prospects for the position, but still inevitably see a sizable gap between the first quarterback taken and your draft selection.Sanchez is projected as the No. 2 overall

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-85584473469958968512009-02-07T22:58:00.000-08:002009-02-07T23:01:59.206-08:00

Did Sanchez make the right decision to stay or did Pete Carroll have the more realistic view? It all depends on who you talk to and which mock draft you're reading.The updated Mock at SportsJabber. net projects Mark Sanchez to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. It also sends Rey Maualuga to the Jets, and Brian Cushing to the Denver Broncos. Though this mock has Sanchez lower than some, there are others in

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-73816720216084519002009-02-04T23:27:00.000-08:002009-02-04T23:43:53.864-08:00

Manti Te’o would have been an additional charm to the 2009 class of Trojans, but the absence, though somewhat unsettling, isn’t crippling to the structure. USC’s loss became Notre Dame’s gain, and everyone was aware of the possibility. But realistically, as much as Te’o is an outstanding 2009 prospect, he’s a more logical projection for 2011. During the recruiting process, Te’o made it clear

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-25039520870310677942009-02-02T20:27:00.000-08:002009-02-02T20:50:38.460-08:00

Matt Cassel, the former Trojan bench warmer turned NFL superstar quarterback, had a right to be angry on Super Bowl weekend. No, it doesn’t have anything to do with the Steelers or Cardinals and any hopes he had for former USC teammates Matt Leinart and Deuce Lutui to earn a championship ring. It also doesn't stem from his Patriots going 11-5 without qualifying for the AFC playoffs or the Pro

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-4770502022563805992009-01-26T12:59:00.000-08:002009-01-26T14:33:25.477-08:00

With a reshuffled coaching staff, an exodus of defensive stars, and an NFL bound quarterback, one person already believes that USC has lost its grip on the Pac 10 conference. Dennis Dodd of CBS Sports doesn’t make a definite statement, appearing more as “beating around the bush”, but his early 2009 college football rankings show the Ducks positioned higher than the Trojans. The top of his early

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-70447971893218199572009-01-22T14:00:00.000-08:002009-01-22T14:19:39.937-08:00

It's only been 3 weeks since USC notched another Rose Bowl victory, and made Penn State another Big 10 victim. The eyes are now set on Columbus Ohio, where the Trojans meet their next Midwestern opponent. Most are aware of the track record against the boys from the fading BCS group, but the Minnesota Golden Gophers didn't hesitate to accept the challenge. Once the contract is finalized, Tim

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-63737002271111054432009-01-21T23:14:00.001-08:002009-01-21T23:18:34.143-08:00

Wednesday’s practices had a sideline visitor. In between travels for recruiting, Coach Pete Carroll made an appearance in Mobile Alabama to watch his Trojans work. In an interview with Lindsey Soto, he explained how the current competition against the nation’s best isn’t anything new to Trojan players, because they face fierce battles each day in practice. He took photos with the 5 USC players

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-576000739293783732009-01-20T22:46:00.000-08:002009-01-20T23:39:57.958-08:00

Senior Bowl week officially began on Monday. Six student-athletes from USC are participating in this year's version, which is 3 less than the year prior, but still the largest representation of any school. It's the NFL's biggest "job fair", with all 32 franchises present to scout future prospects. 5 defensive Trojans took the field on Tuesday morning, and the highest and lowest grades were not

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-33018771422077537062009-01-19T12:18:00.000-08:002009-01-19T12:33:25.667-08:00

The National Football Post is reporting that former Denver Broncos assistant Jeremy Bates is heading to Los Angeles to accept a position on Pete Carroll's staff. Bates operated as the quarterbacks and receivers coach under Mike Shanahan, and was integral to the development of Jay Cutler. With the shuffling in the Trojans' coaching staff, I'm assuming he'll accept the same position at USC, where

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-45755496123527779412009-01-14T15:23:00.000-08:002009-01-14T16:01:40.511-08:00

After a tremendous Rose Bowl performance, and a moment to shine in the national spotlight, Mark Sanchez had a difficult decision to make. Does he remain in school for his senior season or dive into the riches of the NFL? As a projected first round selection, one thing would make the choice easier, and that was another decision in Norman Oklahoma by Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford. As the

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-13303615204355337482009-01-13T12:18:00.000-08:002009-01-13T13:07:04.716-08:00

Just admit, the thought of numerous player departures from USC was scary. It was even more frightening to look at the defensive side, which had the potential to possibly lose 10 of 11 starters. I'm fully aware that Southern California doesn't "rebuild" but will "reload", as I'm also confident in the talent of those players waiting to fill spots. But nothing replaces gameday experience, and

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-7496409485766809972009-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:002009-01-09T13:43:21.428-08:00

Florida is the unanimous National Champion. Their victory over Oklahoma in the BCS championship game solidified the top spot in the coaches’ poll, and any speculation of a split title ended with the Gators finishing No. 1 in the Associated Press. Texas’ Mack Brown proved to be only a man of words, after announcing from the Fiesta Bowl that he would defy the contractual agreement and vote his

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-79160486184530057292009-01-06T22:52:00.000-08:002009-01-06T23:30:22.782-08:00

The recruiting process is far from complete, and rosters remain to be filled. But one man is already making his fearless predictions for incoming classes, and if his vision is correct, a 12th national title for Southern California is on the way. Tom Luginbill is ESPN’s National Recruiting Director for Scouts, Inc, and with only portions of classes assembled, he already has a lot to say."Thanks

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-48813993400160844832009-01-03T11:55:00.000-08:002009-01-03T12:07:38.423-08:00

More Trojans have participated in the NFL's Superbowl than any other college program in America. Of the 42 Superbowl’s played, only twice did a Trojan not appear on the roster of either team contending. Last year, the Giants’ Steve Smith was fitted for the championship ring, claiming his first, while denying Junior Seau and the Patriots a perfect season. Seau, Cassel, and the 11-5 Patriots will

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-85702887416804127772009-01-01T19:53:00.000-08:002009-01-01T20:38:50.770-08:00

Let’s just rename the event and call it “The woodshed” powered by Citi. For the third consecutive year, the Trojans have dragged their Big 10 Rose Bowl opponents behind that Pasadena shed, where they were paddled into submission. A new program, new coaching staff, new theories, and a fresh batch of criticism, yet we have the same results. Though the 38-24 final score may appear respectable and

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-48032666472963042952008-12-30T20:45:00.000-08:002008-12-30T21:12:04.517-08:00

According to Matt Hayes of the Sporting News, the long time coaching veteran (Joe Paterno) will outsmart the newer kid on the block (Pete Carroll) to give Penn State the Rose Bowl victory. To be more specific, Hayes gives reference to Lions offensive coordinator Galen Hall and defensive coordinator Tom Bradley.In not so many words, Hayes claims the Trojans offensive line is overrated, regardless

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-21494214409114254172008-12-29T20:26:00.000-08:002008-12-29T21:02:23.042-08:00

Our cycle is nearly complete. The Trojans rang in the New Year with a dismantling of the Fighting Illini. And here we are again, waiting for another ball to drop, and a Big 10 opponent to fall. But despite the track record, we have those same whispers of doubt. Analysts are telling us why this upcoming Big 10 opponent differs from the others, just as they did in years prior. I’m sure you’ve

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-50743978140200351072008-12-26T17:38:00.001-08:002008-12-26T18:00:35.460-08:00

Emmanuel Moody didn’t care much for sharing. Recruited from the lone star state, he had expectations of becoming the next feature back at USC. Instead, he became another piece of a “running back by committee” offensive scheme. He finished his freshman season with 459 yards on 79 attempts, the second leading rusher on the squad, despite an ankle injury forcing him to miss the last 4 games of

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-26061005956954062792008-12-23T15:34:00.000-08:002008-12-23T16:41:12.708-08:00

Be it "pep talks", "Dr. Lou", or the fact that he once coached at Notre Dame, Lou Holtz annoys me. Being a former coach of the Fighting Irish, the irritation comes natural to anyone supporting the men of Troy, just as I still view Pat Haden’s work with the Notre Dame Broadcasting Company as treason. But ESPN’s initial hiring of Lou Holtz was tolerable, before quickly moving to irritable. Its

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-88460819256890235722008-12-21T23:13:00.000-08:002008-12-21T23:23:03.611-08:00

Penn State was anxious to get to the left coast. The Nittany Lions made their Los Angeles arrival on Sunday, 12 days before they’re scheduled to take the field against the 5th ranked Trojans. They’ll be rooming in Santa Monica, and conducting practices at the Home Depot Center. The 6th ranked Lions haven’t played a football game in over a month, since defeating Michigan State on November 15th to

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-20915536172505145262008-12-18T19:14:00.000-08:002008-12-18T20:13:11.808-08:00

UCLA scores few victories over Trojans football, but they managed to claim a big one on Thursday. 5-star prospect Morrell Presley has de-committed from USC in favor of UCLA. The 6'4, 215 pound tight end visited both schools this month, and determined (in his words) that Neuheisel would "transform him into a better person and better man". That appears to be the marketing ploy in Westwood, as

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-43628551697720202712008-12-17T18:30:00.000-08:002008-12-17T18:38:00.390-08:00

USC continues the football tradition of producing first team All-Americans, and the number now climbs to 154. Linebacker Brian Cushing, named first team All-American by Sports Illustrated, joins Rey Maualuga and Taylor Mays as the 2008 recipients of this honor. The Trojans trail only Notre Dame (178) in the All-American category, but the gap continues to close with each passing year.Both Rey

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-55511083109021924722008-12-17T14:09:00.000-08:002008-12-17T14:13:00.437-08:00

Reggie Bush opened his 2008 season by giving the New Orleans Saints all they expected and paid for. He was leading the league in scoring, finding the end zone rushing, receiving, and returning kicks. He displayed the electrifying play that earned him the Heisman Trophy at USC. But everything came to a screeching halt, as the surgically repaired knee began to flare. He required a second

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-32417096303257761472008-12-16T19:27:00.000-08:002008-12-16T20:52:22.227-08:00

The biggest headline of USC’s summer camp was the dislocated kneecap suffered by quarterback Mark Sanchez. It proved to be nothing more than a temporary concern, as he completed the season without missing a start. But even with a healthy Sanchez, the camp closed with suspicions. The Trojans struggled offensively, including being shutout in a scrimmage between first team units that drew

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-70436625324276602412008-12-14T22:44:00.000-08:002008-12-14T23:42:19.162-08:00

Remember the playoff proposed and discussed over the summer? It was a 4-team format that gained little support, and the Pac 10 and Big 10 inevitably took the blame for this far from brilliant plan crashing and burning. Some college football fans were even disgusted that it was shot down, but obviously they didn’t pay attention to the details. Last summer’s submission was another pile of bullsh*

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-31169518903571676392008-12-13T22:33:00.000-08:002008-12-13T22:49:07.659-08:00

The Heisman Trophy is presented to college football’s most outstanding player, as it is defined. But when you view a list of winners, it’s obvious that it’s an offensive achievement award, with only one primarily defensive player (Charles Woodson, Michigan ’97) ever taking the hardware home. Continuing on it’s offensive pattern, Oklahoma’s Sam Bradford took the Heisman home on Saturday night.

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-65730298135989147422008-12-11T13:33:00.000-08:002008-12-11T13:45:17.196-08:00

The USC Song girls are a longstanding tradition of Trojans football. They are the ambassadors of Troy, appearing in nationwide events throughout the year, as no other pom squad can equal them in national recognition. But oddly enough, in a poll conducted by Scott Wolf, which rates the cheerleaders of the Pac 10, the Southern Cal rah-rahs failed to claim the top spot. Keep in mind that Scott

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-27586319511054864062008-12-09T13:11:00.000-08:002008-12-09T13:21:02.402-08:00

For the second time in as many seasons, USC has claimed the Pac 10's "Pat Tillman Defensive Player of the year" award. With so many deserving on the nation’s top defensive unit, Rey Maualuga, the Trojan warrior in the middle, emerged as this year's winner. He follows Sedrick Ellis, who won the award in 2007. Maualuga, with a team leading 73 tackles, was also named “First team Pac 10” for the

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-24488743043533544122008-12-07T15:00:00.000-08:002008-12-07T15:19:24.724-08:00

With yesterday’s confirmation that Steve Sarkisian is the new head football coach for the University of Washington, it’s time to set sights on a replacement. To hear it from the horse’s mouth, Pete Carroll told the Los Angeles Daily news that receiver's coach John Morton is in line for the job, in an effort to maintain continuity. Before joining the Trojans' staff in 2007, Morton worked 8 years

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-44257867742588895582008-12-06T20:54:00.000-08:002008-12-06T21:08:29.195-08:00

The football monopoly in Los Angeles is officially over HERE.Isn’t this where we left off? USC begins the season as Pac 10 champions, and finishes just the same. It’s become as traditional as the rowdy mobs of Black Friday and the lighting of the Christmas tree in Rockefeller Center. It’s an axiom, and just as Thanksgiving leads to Christmas, USC is winning a conference championship somewhere

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-8099044061335087702008-12-04T20:34:00.000-08:002008-12-04T20:58:10.685-08:00

Despite the denial of reports, it appears that USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian will be named the new head coach of the Washington Huskies. Sark interviewed with the Huskies earlier this week, and agrees that he is the top candidate, but wouldn't offer more information. According to the ESPN news wire, sources close to the situation are confirming the hire.If the reports prove to be

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-15747564382545861592008-12-03T19:54:00.000-08:002008-12-04T15:28:55.596-08:00

The Trojans enter their second rivalry in as many weeks, as they continue to walk the BCS path. The Oregon State mishap last weekend cast a familiar fragrance of roses, and the men of Troy can solidify their 7th consecutive BCS bowl game with a victory over the rival Bruins on Saturday to clinch a birth. Failure to do so would create a 3-way tie in the Pacific 10, allowing the once disheartened

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-39951032341835499972008-12-02T23:13:00.000-08:002008-12-02T23:22:19.699-08:00

A forgotten man in the USC offense is wide receiver Vidal Hazelton, who was the Trojans second leading receiver in 2007. One of his most memorable moments last year was the spectacular one handed grab in the opener against Idaho. The photos circulated news wires and tape rolled on television highlight reels, and Hazelton appeared to be a rising star and future household name of USC football.

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-4141598466667404302008-12-02T17:50:00.000-08:002008-12-02T18:22:31.247-08:00

The current NFL focus is on the Giants’ Plaxico Burress for accidently shooting himself in the leg while out on the town. The receiver now faces criminal charges and was suspended by his team earlier today. Since the incident occurred, there has been nothing but harsh criticism over players carrying concealed weapons and their reasons for it. But one reason is evident, as the wire service today

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-40873786355900591572008-12-02T12:37:00.000-08:002008-12-02T12:53:52.669-08:00

The idea of USC wearing their home darks for the annual crosstown rivalry game with UCLA has been kicked around for over a year now. When Rick Neuheisel became the new head football coach in Westwood, it became more of a possibility, as he played in those early games when the coliseum hosted both home teams. But as I mentioned nearly a year ago, in allowing this to happen, Neuheisel would be

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-69226770267073563212008-12-01T21:07:00.000-08:002008-12-01T21:32:55.208-08:00

It wasn’t long ago that Matt Cassel appeared to be an unwanted man. In the final year of his contract, his future with the New England Patriots was in doubt. There were camp competitions and trade rumors, and Bean Town fans were disappointed that he overcame both to make the final roster cut. Then came the unthinkable, Tom Brady collapses on the turf and his season comes to an abrupt end. It

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-38398901059397539402008-11-29T23:15:00.000-08:002008-11-29T23:34:23.153-08:00

In the spirit of rivalry, the Irish came into the Coliseum fighting. Unfortunately for the Domers, pre-game skirmishes aren’t recorded and don’t appear on stat sheets. Though Notre Dame appeared pumped and fearless in an early scuffle that led to the two teams being separated before the game ever kicked off, they had no punches to throw on the negative side of a 38-3 Trojans rout.From the first

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-20646087605894428832008-11-28T12:59:00.001-08:002008-11-28T13:01:55.630-08:00

ESPN.com is reporting that former USC offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin has accepted a deal in principle to become the new head coach of the Tennessee Volunteers. The 33 year old Kiffin left Southern California in 2007 to coach the Oakland Raiders. He was terminated on September 30, 2008, after less than two years in a Raiders organization that made him the youngest coach in their history. Lane

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-30353984681692291272008-11-27T18:30:00.000-08:002008-11-27T18:49:11.531-08:00

Lendale White doesn’t fear a microphone or hesitate to voice is displeasures. But of course, we already knew that, from his days at USC. As any other poster boy for disgruntled players would be, White was vocal in last weekend’s post-game interview that followed a 34-13 loss to the Jets, a game that gave the once perfect Titans their only blemish on the season. He was frustrated in carrying the

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-43251019159696654352008-11-26T19:49:00.000-08:002008-11-26T20:59:23.150-08:00

Depending on the articles read and lists compiled, several rivalries will appear as the “greatest”. Be it the bias of the author and his or her loyalties holding weight, difference of opinion will bring about a different order. But without a doubt, USC and Notre Dame is the greatest intersectional rivalry in the nation, because of the simple fact that they share no conference and exist in

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-49556817145641169242008-11-25T14:23:00.000-08:002008-11-25T14:30:23.975-08:00

Oregon State heads into one of the most important games in the school’s history on Saturday, and they may be playing without a key contributor. Jacquizz Rodgers, who fans of the Empire know very well, could sit out the “uncivil war” against Oregon with a sprained shoulder. That shoulder was injured early in the first quarter of the Arizona game that showed the Wildcats less than 2 minutes away

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-73614181791470368312008-11-25T01:27:00.000-08:002008-11-25T01:44:36.251-08:00

It’s no secret that Las Vegas oddsmakers will often contradict positions in college polls. You’ll see that difference of opinion each time the Vegas favorite is lower ranked than the opponent. I can’t say that one determination is more precise than the other, because even those in Sin City will underestimate opponents. This is always evident in Pac 10 spreads, where USC is often a heavy

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-19034654875784104302008-11-24T12:29:00.000-08:002008-11-24T12:44:16.128-08:00

Now that Penn State is locked into January’s Rose Bowl, they have the luxury of formulating opinions on possible opponents. Unless Oregon State stumbles this weekend, the Nittany Lions are looking at a rematch of an earlier season College Station rout of the Beavers. OSU is playing better football these days, but Penn State receiver, Deon Butler, has already indicated that he’d like to pass on

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-45737345878030506732008-11-21T13:07:00.000-08:002008-11-21T13:22:56.699-08:00

USC’s final destination remains up in the air, and just as each weekend can potentially create a new path, this weekend will offer more road paving results. One annual rivalry that meant nothing to anyone outside of the Beehive State now looms large for programs anticipating at-large BCS bids. Trojan fans will be scoreboard watching, with Oregon State traveling to Tuscon, as a Beavers loss

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-80028232538686339332008-11-19T20:10:00.000-08:002008-11-19T20:21:29.891-08:00

Appearing on the FOX radio show, in a conversation sparked about Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb not knowing the NFL overtime rules, UCLA football coach Rick Neuheisel said it was surprising to hear, but gave a reason for it. His belief is that fewer kids are watching football today, compared to his generation. The Bruins coach says, “There's just too many other things they can do with their

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-15078303186473732672008-11-18T20:50:00.000-08:002008-11-18T21:20:54.948-08:00

In a tip from Trojanwire that led me to a story at Busted Coverage, Natalie Nelson is again revisited. Natalie, the former USC Song girl now married to Ryan Kalil, became infamous for appearing to cheer for the wrong team in the 2006 Rose Bowl game, by raising her arms to celebrate a Texas touchdown over USC. Now she's reappeared in Halloween photos, and she's clad in a Texas Longhorns football

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-18854880439755632492008-11-17T19:49:00.000-08:002008-11-17T20:14:56.360-08:00

So, what was that sh*t Jim Harbaugh pulled at the end of the Saturday's game? On the negative end of a 45-17 blowout, the Stanford coach calls a timeout with less than 30 seconds to play and his team deep in Trojan territory. His action sparked a chorus of boos from his home crowd, who were aware that there isn’t a 28 point play in football, so the end result was obvious. Harbaugh then sends

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-61925696326658826582008-11-15T21:34:00.000-08:002008-11-15T21:49:07.430-08:00

The 2008 revenge game in Palo Alto turned into a story of two halves. Stanford opened the game looking very much the part of the upset minded team they were last year. Playing to a scoreboard tie, and outplaying the Trojans on the field, the Cardinal were a confident bunch. But second half adjustments proved to be the difference maker, as USC clamped down defensively and the offense poured it

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-76079361209479010102008-11-15T15:19:00.000-08:002008-11-15T15:23:24.853-08:00

USC officially tipped off the 2008 basketball season with a 78-55 victory over UC Irvine at the Galen Center. The men of Troy displayed little firepower in the first half, but a solid defensive effort sent them to the locker room leading 35-29. The offense finally got on track in the second, with Dwight Lewis leading the way with a game high 18 points. Taj Gibson added 17, including 3

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-76950275079064070792008-11-14T13:42:00.000-08:002008-11-14T14:04:24.725-08:00

Former UCLA Bruins running back Maurice Jones-Drew, currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars, sounded off a month ago about the differences between USC and UCLA. He gave the typical “University of Spoiled Children” remark that is a haters favorite, and said he would want his kids to enroll on the campus in Westwood, because it produces a better education and people."To go to a great school like

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-65850208497174992752008-11-13T23:34:00.000-08:002008-11-13T23:48:03.228-08:00

He may not be Tom Brady, but Matt Cassel may have a lot in common with the injured Patriots star. Neither were highly touted quarterbacks in their draft classes, though Brady did start at Michigan, while Cassel paced the sidelines at USC. New England selected Tom Brady in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL draft, and 5 years later, they took Cassel in the seventh. Chad Pennington was the first

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-44536938344357394592008-11-13T18:52:00.000-08:002008-11-13T19:14:50.398-08:00

I didn’t think it was possible, but the Oregon football team may reveal yet another uniform, which would top the other hundreds of horrible combinations in ugliness. It’s a foregone conclusion that Phil Knight’s Nike whores will wear anything, but eyeing this new proposal that damages the retina, also shows their poor fashion sense has no limits.The black helmets are a definite, and coming soon

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-24654478675993239782008-11-13T15:56:00.000-08:002008-11-13T16:04:06.500-08:00

Joe McKnight was back on the field against Cal last weekend and appeared to be healthy and at full speed. And even with the fumble that followed a dazzling run, it was the McKnight that we’ve come to know. But there are still questions about his noticeable absence in the game prior, as he failed to make an appearance against the Washington Huskies. Leading up to the game, all reports were that

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-37373109988100811952008-11-13T01:18:00.000-08:002008-11-13T01:35:36.091-08:00

It was the shot heard round the world. Stanford faces 4th down and 20 with time elapsing on the game clock and trailing by 6. Fill-in quarterback Tavita Pritchard drops back and finds Richard Sherman for a 20 yard gain to the USC 9. The Trojans defense tightened, and the Cardinal are again faced with a 4th down, with under a minute to play in the game. With a snap of the ball, it happens,

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-62489494640890485852008-11-11T22:57:00.000-08:002008-11-11T23:02:09.273-08:00

Last February we were hit with the sad news of former Trojan, and current Minnesota Vikings, Kenechi Udezi being diagnosed with Leukemia. It was somewhat shocking to believe that a man that stood as a structure of strength and force on a football field was weakened by a disease that eventually led to his wearing of a mask to protect from infections. There was uncertainty of his future, and life

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-36464738137341806442008-11-10T22:56:00.000-08:002008-11-10T23:00:50.899-08:00

Well, I can’t say those are his exact thoughts, but the redshirt freshman running back from Arkansas has decided to leave the Empire and transfer. Without a doubt, Broderick Green is a load of talent, and could easily prosper in another program. Though he states family problems as his reason, it’s obvious the line and wait is too long for this runner to endure. Like Emmanuel Moody before him,

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-34475894310022735302008-11-08T22:40:00.000-08:002008-11-08T22:57:48.357-08:00

Let the critics sound off. This wasn’t Washington or Washington State. Saturday’s coliseum guest was the 21st ranked Golden Bears of Cal, who brought with them an offense averaging more than 36 points per game. And not only did they feature a high powered offense, they presented a formidable defense. A different opponent, but the same results, as the men of Troy allowed the Golden Bears no

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-40719347595805231182008-11-06T22:51:00.000-08:002008-11-06T23:08:02.518-08:00

The Sports Museum of America will be auctioning several items in early December, including the Heisman Trophy won by Southern Cal's Charles White. White won the award in 1979, denying Oklahoma's Billy Simms the opportunity to be the second two-time winner. Averaging 186 yards per game, he easily won each region of the Heisman voting.Although White never faired well in the NFL, he did enjoy one

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-92174694608132271802008-11-06T12:02:00.000-08:002008-11-06T12:11:12.731-08:00

If we asked college football fans to name the rivals of USC, we’d have a list that includes the obvious choices of UCLA and Notre Dame. You may see the word Stanford thrown in the mix, but the Golden Bears of Cal would appear as an afterthought. Until Jeff Tedford’s arrival, the California program lay in a state of hibernation for many years. Rivalries are to be competitive, and Cal/USC was

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-56826964091950495382008-11-05T01:09:00.000-08:002008-11-05T02:11:07.299-08:00

Pete Carroll is a man than rarely gives an opinion of the BCS, and when asked, usually gives the recycled answer about not understanding and not worrying about something he can't control. On Tuesday the more opinionated Pete Carroll spoke about the system that crowns college football's champion, and it wasn't sugar coated, and far from those recycled words of the past. "I think it stinks. And I

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-1462449924455588982008-11-02T23:04:00.000-08:002008-11-02T23:27:15.008-08:00

Every coach has a style, and it’s implemented toward the leadership of their franchise. Some personalities are strong and have an impact on the roster. Others are passive, and the roster may control them. You can be the Wade Phillips type, standing on the sidelines with Jones’ hand up your ass, as a puppet gives a deceptive image of a leader. I’d still like to see Phillips talking at a press

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-20864462155235866362008-11-02T17:23:00.000-08:002008-11-02T17:50:47.288-08:00

It's not exactly shocking, but the new BCS standings show USC falling two spots to No. 7, despite the 56-0 victory over Washington. But the Men of Troy weren't the only big winner to drop in rank after paddling an opponent. The Oklahoma Sooners also fell 2 places after 62-28 weekend blasting of Nebraska. You can say the programs are being penalized for their most recent opponents lacking

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-38831893933962173002008-11-02T14:09:00.000-08:002008-11-02T14:40:57.896-08:00

The Florida Gators have played and defeated 2 top ten opponents, outscoring LSU and Georgia by a combined total of 100-31. The Georgia Bulldogs have lost to 2 top ten opponents, getting outscored 90-40 in those meetings. If we look at the ground Florida has covered, it can be said that the Gators played down to the competition, with the only loss coming against the lowest profile team on the

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-22091427597218997562008-11-01T18:52:00.000-07:002008-11-01T19:22:27.150-07:00

On an afternoon beneath cloud covered skies, points came raining down on the Washington Huskies, and they failed to respond with any of their own. Everyone knew what kind of game this was going to be. We could have photoshopped white jerseys and gold helmets on the Washington State Cougars, and just have Washington deliver the tape, instead of sending a team. We got an up close and personal

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-43895994548025157802008-10-31T13:00:00.000-07:002008-10-31T14:08:40.377-07:00

This is old news for anyone that's followed the Trojans over the past few years, but Pete Carroll finally came out and said it. No one knows you better than your neighbors, and the struggles in conference are a result of an opponents preparation for something they've seen over and over again. It's a plug in of new faces in any given year, but it's the same system running the same attack at USC.

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-1932696511128448332008-10-29T21:44:00.000-07:002008-10-29T21:57:43.814-07:00

The Huskies have already made headlines before ever touching down in Los Angeles. The Monday firing of Coach Ty Willingham spins the program further into shambles. But nonetheless, they must play out the remainder of their schedule, including this post-announcement clash with the Pac 10 giant. As miserable as Washington has been, they’ve played the Trojans tough in recent years. It was a 27-

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-55438377136017963032008-10-29T17:47:00.000-07:002008-10-29T18:10:27.588-07:00

Lane Kiffin has interest in the soon to be vacant coaching vacancy in Washington. Now add USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian to the list. The two men have a lot in common, mostly from being on the same staff at USC. But there's an even greater common link between them, and it's their teacher, Norm Chow. Steve Sarkisian was taught by Norm Chow as both a QB at BYU in '95, and as a USC

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-41614518666963798902008-10-29T01:57:00.000-07:002008-10-29T02:59:13.942-07:00

No matter which teams you follow and declare your loyalty, I’m sure there is a certain game you can reflect on as one of the most horrific defeats they’ve ever suffered. But just as Stanford and Appalachian State may have shocked the sports world in 2007, their upset victories over highly ranked Southern California and Michigan are mild in comparison to the teams on this list. There's nothing

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-36402436571772483002008-10-29T01:38:00.000-07:002008-10-29T01:48:37.004-07:00

College football currently features two great Safeties, but only one will be draft eligible. Tennessee’s sophomore Eric Berry is in the NFL’s distant future, but for USC’s junior Taylor Mays, the future can arrive in April.Mays is a freak of nature that has NFL General Managers anticipating his arrival. Standing at 6’3 and 230 pounds, he was a two time high school track champion in both the 100

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-36274406369153847572008-10-28T00:45:00.000-07:002008-10-28T01:29:30.209-07:00

Some NFL franchises were willing to gamble and take a stab at the poor free agency market, providing the cash and hoping for performance. Others gambled with picks, acquiring what they believed to be immediate impact players and sacrificing positions in future drafts. With 8 weeks complete, and teams and players settling in, let’s give a group hug to all the DOH-mers that flushed their funds

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-83746049187493348742008-10-27T21:16:00.001-07:002008-10-27T21:23:02.518-07:00

Sometimes there’s just no getting around that “oops”. Last year, with the madness of the season, USC nearly had the opportunity to overcome the horrible loss to Stanford and still qualify for the BCS championship game. It was the second loss, to Oregon, that ultimately did them in. And even then, it was still close. Two years ago, it wasn’t the slip up against Oregon State that kept the

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-39695148930069823702008-10-27T15:11:00.000-07:002008-10-27T15:38:38.334-07:00

The sound we've been waiting for in the Pacific Northwest was finally heard on Monday. That thud was the University of Washington dropping the axe, cutting ties with Coach Ty Willingham at the end of the season. It was inevitable, and certainly won't create ripples of "fair or not" discussions across the nation, as the firing of Tommy Bowden did in Clemson. Going into the season, Willingham

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-74423589435691901452008-10-27T00:31:00.000-07:002008-10-27T01:32:26.294-07:00

Tulsa was ranked 19th and 21st in last week's coaches and Harris polls. They premiered at No. 19 in the preliminary BCS standings. The Golden Hurricanes managed to jump spots in this weeks standings without playing a game, and without having a bye week. By late Sunday afternoon, the results of both human polls were combined with computer data, and fresh results were published. The only

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-16099102148042042182008-10-26T23:37:00.000-07:002008-10-27T00:18:41.518-07:00

We're now in year two of USC's "running back by committee" offense, and the more I see it, the more I see a need for change. The interchangeable parts of the Trojans offense may prosper against lesser defenses, as they did in posting three 100 yard rushers against Washington State. But when it comes to the better defenses, especially in the Pac 10 conference, whatever happened to the phrase, "

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-44547132786176146942008-10-26T01:29:00.000-07:002008-10-26T01:43:07.438-07:00

Another Saturday and another ranked opponent. Such has been the life of the Texas Longhorns. The Horns have been the BCS leader since defeating their first ranked opponent, the Oklahoma Sooners, three weeks ago. Their weekend disposal of No. 6 Oklahoma State now makes it 3 consecutive ranked opponents to collide with the burnt orange, and and 3 more notches in Mack Brown’s belt. And still

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-6795061177465262502008-10-25T23:50:00.000-07:002008-10-26T00:10:14.524-07:00

The Southern California Trojans spoil Arizona’s homecoming with a 17-10 victory in Tucson. Though the Wildcats had developed a reputation for sinking top 25 opponents in the desert sand, the Trojans defense ensured that the 5th ranked visitors would leave on their feet.With Arizona’s defense appearing up to the task, limiting USC to their lowest scoring output on the season, the Trojans'

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-8147038895518940052008-10-23T01:02:00.000-07:002008-10-23T01:39:41.150-07:00

With the preliminary BCS standings revealed, the landscape has a different look. For now on, all digits preceding a program’s name will reflect their position in the BCS standing, and no longer represent positions in the AP poll. As always, the AP may come into play down the stretch, if it appears college football may be headed towards a split title. But until then, the AP poll is irrelevant,

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-64863642824242158102008-10-22T23:28:00.000-07:002008-10-22T23:54:44.519-07:00

Before the regular season began, and long before the Trojans suffered the unlikely loss in Corvallis, one Pac 10 road game has been circle on the schedule, and that was the October visit to Tucson. It’s amazing that fans of the Empire would circle any game with Mike Stoops coaching on the opposing sideline, but I can see some reason to worry. Over the past 4 seasons, the Wildcats have presented a

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-84646605944819110682008-10-22T13:51:00.000-07:002008-10-22T14:21:09.101-07:00

According to the Los Angeles Daily News, the Sanchez family arranged a meeting with Joe Mendes, the vice president of football operations for the Washington Redskins, and a good friend of Pete Carroll. It was a consultation, with the family weighing their son’s future options, though the USC redshirt junior quarterback claims he was unaware of the details. USC is an NFL football factory, and

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-20722489071651429202008-10-21T20:54:00.000-07:002008-10-21T21:48:20.057-07:00

We all know Lou Holtz. Well, at least most of us do. If you follow college football at all, you know he was one of the great coaching names of his time, now works as an analyst for ESPN, and recently had a statue in his likeness unveiled on the Notre Dame campus. Some people love him, and others hate him. If you’ve heard his opinions on college games, you realize he represents “homerism” to

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-7420557054258355202008-10-21T15:50:00.000-07:002008-10-21T15:59:51.673-07:00

As reported earlier, Reggie Bush did sustain a tear in his left knee during Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. Bush underwent arthroscopic surgery on Monday, and is now in recovery. The timetable for his return remains unknown. The estimate for a cartilage tear is about 2 to 4 weeks. Bush's teammates are in England, preparing for Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers.

Trojan Horsenoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2171038563328546824.post-18151889863712196292008-10-21T14:49:00.000-07:002008-10-21T15:35:57.692-07:00

Pete Carroll turned down the San Francisco job offer in 2005. He then turned down the Raiders in 2006. But he is a California Bay area guy, and the firing of Mike Nolan has to raise some concerns. Carroll was born and raised in San Francisco. He attended Northern California's University of the Pacific, eventually moving on to later become the 49ers defensive coordinator in '95 & '96. A return

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