CFI Countdown: #7 USC Trojans

2008 Record: 12-1 (Pac-10 8-1)
Bowl Game: Won Rose Bowl vs. Penn St. 38-24
Location: Los Angeles, California
Stadium: Los Angeles Memorial Stadium (92,000)
Head Coach: Pete Carroll
Overall: 88-15 (9th season)
@ USC: 88-15 (9th season)
Link to USC Football Page

Since arriving in sunny Southern California, Pete Carroll has been so successful it has become difficult to truly appreciate the high standard of excellence he has established. An average season ensures they will be in the mix for a national championship, and who is better in big games? With only three starters back on defense and a true freshman set to start the season under center, this could be Carroll’s most challenging campaign since taking over as the Man of Troy.

When the Trojans Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: John Morton (1st season)
Scheme: Pro Style Offense
Starters Returning: Seven
Key Losses: QB Mark Sanchez, WR Patrick Turner, K David Buehler

Most of their losses from last season come on the defensive side of the ball, but the biggest individual loss is likely that of quarterback Mark Sanchez. The eventual top-five pick surprised many by declaring for the NFL, including Carroll who voiced his concerns over the decision. So instead of getting ready for a Heisman run for the Trojans, Sanchez will be starting in the NFL. This is new territory for Carroll, which is why we are seeing a first under his command—a true freshman starter in Matt Barkley, who beat out other highly-touted signal callers in Aaron Corp, as well as Mitch Mustain. Many rate Barkley as the top freshman coming into this season. Working in his favor is a strong offensive line and a stockpile of skill players. Senior left tackle Charles Brown will protect his blind side and the man snapping him the football, sophomore center Kristofer O’Dowd (may miss opener with knee injury), could be the best in the game. The rest of the line consists of a nice blend of solid veterans, such as sixth-year senior Jeff Byers, and talented youngsters, like tackle Tyron Smith. Their best receiver from a year ago, former Razorback, junior Damian Williams, returns to provide a go-to target and big play option. However, with Ronald Johnson going down (broken collarbone) over the weekend there are some concerns regarding depth at the receiver position. They need junior David Ausberry to start playing up to his high school accolades. Picking up some slack will be tight end Anthony McCoy who is a dangerous weapon in his own right. To say there is depth at tailback is an understatement. Stafon Johnson, C. J. Gable, Joe McKnight, and Allen Bradford are all talented and capable starters. Gable is shifty and a solid pass catcher, Bradford brings power, McKnight is the home run threat, and Johnson may have the best combination of running skills. Not to be forgotten is junior fullback Stanley Havili, who can run, block, and catch—one of the nation’s most underrated players.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) C Kristofer O’Dowd (JR), 2) WR Damian Williams (JR), 3) OT Charles Brown (SR)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Rocky Seto (1st season)
Scheme: Multiple 4-3
Starters Returning: Three
Key Losses: LB Rey Maualuga, LB Brian Cushing, LB Clay Matthews Jr., S Kevin Ellison, DT Fili Moala, DE Kyle Moore, CB Cary Harris, LB Kaluka Maiava

Eight Trojan defenders were drafted last April, including four linebackers, with starters Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing, and Clay Matthews Jr. going in the first two rounds—that’s a lot of talent to replace, even for a program like USC’s. This might be the toughest challenge to the reloading vs. rebuilding model—normally USC does the former. Stepping in will be juniors Michael Morgan and Malcolm Smith and they’ll flank sophomore MIKE Chris Galippo. They could follow their predecessors into the NFL, but it is hard to believe they will be as good from day one. Up front, senior defensive tackle Averell Spicer and junior end Everson Griffen do have experience, with many expecting an All-American type season from Griffen, a pass-rushing demon. The undisputed leader of the secondary, and the entire defense for that matter, is senior free safety Taylor Mays. The Trojans are happy he decided to return after many assumed he would be headed for the league where they play for pay. Mays looks the part and possesses excellent speed despite the fact he is bigger than many college linebackers. It would be safe to say that no defensive back hits harder than Mr. Mays. Josh Pinkard, who’s had an injury riddled career, looks to slot in next to Mays at strong safety, with corners Kevin Thomas ready to take over full-time as long as he can stay healthy. Shareece Wright was slated to join Thomas until it was announced yesterday that he is academically ineligible to play this season.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) FS Taylor Mays (SR), 2) DE Everson Griffen (JR), 3) LB Chris Galippo (SO)

The Schedule

The Men of Troy have one of the toughest travel schedules of any team in the country. Out of conference they make the trip to the Horseshoe in Columbus to take on a group of Buckeyes smarting to knock off a big time program in week two. The same could be said of Notre Dame, who hopes to use a victory over USC in South Bend to catapult into BCS Bowl territory. In conference, the consensus challengers are California and Oregon, with USC making trips to both Berkeley and Eugene. That’s four road games against pre-season ranked teams. They also travel to Tempe to take on the Sun Devils. They do host rival UCLA and Oregon St. in a revenge game.

Pivotal Point

We can talk about the talent they have to replace at linebacker or the durability and depth concerns at defensive back, but when they a named a true freshman as the starting quarterback, he became the pivotal point of the season. Talk to anyone who has seen Barkley play and they will tell you the talent is there, but the fact he is a true freshman can’t be overlooked until he proves himself on the gridiron. There is legitimate concern that Barkley is playing a year too early, and he could have been red-shirted had Sanchez returned to USC. There are also questions whether or not he would have beaten out talented sophomore Aaron Corp had Corp stayed healthy throughout fall camp. No one doubts Barkley’s bright future, but his present could be a little hazy. We should also mention that the Trojans are breaking in new coordinators on both sides of the ball.

CFI Final Analysis

Everyone knows the Trojans have as much talent as any team in the nation. What they lack is experience. The last time they had to replace this many key players on defense was in 2005, when they allowed 360.9 yards and 22.8 points per game and were lit up by Texas for 41 points in the BCS Championship game. Since 2004, they have not allowed more than 16 points or 295.8 yards per game in any one season (other than 2005). The most points allowed in another BCS game under Carroll? Last year, when Penn St. scored 24 in the Trojans’ 14-point win, which is also the smallest margin of victory in their six BCS wins under Carroll. But, you say, they did make the BCS Championship game. True, but in 2005 they also returned the likes of Matt Leinart, Reggie Bush, LenDale White, and Dwayne Jarrett—that was a proven and dynamic offense. Expect the 2009 Trojans to take a step back, which in Pete Carroll land means a fall all the way to number seven.

College Football Insiders Top 25 Countdown:
The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams
#25 West Virginia Mounainteers
#24 Tennessee Volunteers
#23 Clemson Tigers
#22 Pittsburgh Panthers
#21 Michigan St. Spartans
#20 Utah Utes
#19 Oregon Ducks
#18 Florida St. Seminoles
#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#16 Boise St. Broncos
#15 North Carolina Tar Heels
#14 Penn St. Nittany Lions
#13 Mississippi Rebels
#12 Oklahoma St. Cowboys
#11 California Golden Bears
#10 Iowa Hawkeyes
#9 Virginia Tech Hokies
#8 Georgia Bulldogs

Photos Courtesy of College Press Box, Illinois Sports Information

MAUALUGA LEAVES, THEN RETURNS AT PRO DAY

Rey Maualuga, who wasn’t among the initial group of eight Trojans to run their 40 at the beginning of the workouts, went through position drills along with fellow linebackers Brian Cushing, Clay Matthews and Kaluka Maiava. After leaving to attend to a nagging blister on his foot, he returned to run a solo 40 run that clocked in at 4.7 according to NFL Network’s Mike Mayock. He was clocked at 4.83 at the Combine. Maualuga said he has a visit scheduled with the Falcons on Saturday and seven visits with teams between now and April 20th. “I just came out and did everything to the best of my abilities,” Maualuga said. “Am I satisfied with my performance? Yes. If I didn’t give it everything that I had, then what’s the point of being out here?”

Mandel's Take: The 40 time and the rest of his measurables are fine, but teams aren't going to make a draft decision about this kid based on a couple of tenths of a second or a few reps. Anyone who sees the former USC man on film, WITH PADS is going to realize that Maualuga is a fierce player, one who actually may need to rein in his emotions a bit and play a bit more in control if he wants to be successful in the NFL. That being said, his aggressive streak is what makes him such a good player, one with big time potential--do teams want to mess with that? The former Trojan has great football instincts, hits like a freight train, and is the best linebacker in this Draft. Rev--you've gotta like this guy's chances in the NFL. Is he another Seau or Lewis?

Mancini's Take: I definitely see the comparison with Seau. Much like the legendary Charger, Maualuga is a wild man, who takes on blockers and punishes ballcarriers with incredible ferocity. This guy's lateral agility is tremendous, but he can be overaggressive to the point where you'll also see him overrun plays, which may create cutback lanes for the opposing runner. Overall, though, I think this guy's an impact player who'll force his share of fumbles and also makes plays in coverage. That's right, Ross man, a run-stuffing intimidator who's a three-down player. This is what you get with Maualuga. He's the complete package. Just don't be surprised to frequently see his name on the injury report due to his violent style of play.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (USC)

All Access: More USC Pro Day Results

Based on unofficial times, here are the 40 numbers for the rest of the group: Cushing (4.68), Matthews (4.57), Maiava (4.68), S Kevin Ellison (4.70), CB Cary Harris (4.89), WR Patrick Turner (4.63) and DE Kyle Moore (4.76). QB Mark Sanchez chose not to run the 40, standing on his 4.88 time at the combine. Harris suffered a hamstring injury during the workouts. Saints coach Sean Payton, Vikings coach Brad Childress, 49ers coach Mike Singletary, Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt and Lions coach Jim Schwartz were on the USC campus today. Several GMs are also getting a first-hand look, including the Lions’ Martin Mayhew, the Saints’ Mickey Loomis, the Vikings’ Rick Spielman, the Cardinals’ Rod Graves and Ted Thompson of the Packers. A number of coordinators are getting a look, including Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan of the Lions and Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. Cardinals owner Bill Bidwill is here, and I’m told he brought the Cardinals’ contingent on his private jet. The Lions and Saints have the biggest contingents, followed by the Seahawks, Raiders and Vikings.

Mandel's Take: Cushing, like the aforementioned Maualuga, hits hard and seems to enjoy knocking the crap out of people. Cushing played all over the field in college and I'd say he was a better prospect than Maualuga if it weren't for two things: 1) Cushing isn't as durable and 2) there are rampant rumors surrounding Cushing using illegal supplements. I know he's stated he doesn't do anything steroid-related, but would he really admit it? I'm not saying he's done anything, but teams are very wary of the physical transformation he's gone through and it could hurt him on Draft day. Matthews, the third of the Trojan linebacking trio, is perhaps the most intriguing. He's gone from a walk-on to a first round pick. That improvement must be respected, and he's only getting better. With some more experience and a bit of bulk added to his dedication and athleticism, it could be this kid that ends up being the brightest star of this talented trio. Turner's size and experience could allow him to be a solid possession guy in the NFL, but his lack of speed will be a hindrance. Rev, do Maiava's inexperience and lack of size scare you, or would you use a mid-round pick on him? Discuss!

Mancini's Take: Maiava's a project with great agility to elude blockers and make plays in space. He's not as big as most outside linebackers. His lack of size becomes a concern when he can't run by blockers and must take them head-on. I don't know if he can disengage from much bigger tight ends, offensive linemen or fullbacks even. Maiava would be best served by playing in a Cover-2 scheme. I'm also worried about the steroid allegations concerning Cushing, aka the Bergen Bulldog, and would want to know more about his past before drafting him. My favorite guy here is Clay Matthews Jr. With his work ethic and already rapid progress, he'll be a terror off the edge. Matthews is also a secure tackler and is athletic enough to contribute in pass coverage.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (USC)

Q&A: Clay Matthews, Jr., USC

Linebacker Clay Matthews, Jr. interviewed on the All Access Radio's Football Friday Show with Ralph Mancini, Daniel Mogollon and Rodney Towe on March 20, 2009

Being the guy some people view as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, when you hear the term “hybrid”, what comes to mind?

Matthews: Versatility. I’ve always played a multitude of positions and for me, personally, playing 3-4/4-3 or playing an outside linebacker or a rush, defensive end, or standup linebacker, however you want to look at it. I'm just someone that can bring more to the table than your one dimensional, traditional player, so I see myself filling a lot of roles.

Conversely, when you hear the term “tweener” thrown around, what goes through your mind?

Matthews: It depends on how you take that, whether it's a good or bad thing. Certain people call Dwight Freeney a tweener. Obviously, he's a little smaller than your typical defensive end, but he has a lot of speed and a great motor. I think it really works to my advantage, regardless of what position they want to play me at.

I guess a lot of people by now know your story; you came to USC as a walk-on. You had to bite and scratch to become a starter in your senior year. My question to you is, where did you get that competitive nature from? Is it something that your dad instilled in you? Was your father who was an NFL Pro for 19 years? Was your father extremely hard on you growing up as a kid?

Matthews: I think it was something ingrained in me since day one. I’ve always been out to prove that I’m a battler in anything, in any facet of life. I’m always out to prove that I deserve to be there, and that I deserve respect. It's something I’ve had to do since day one. My dad has never been too hard on me, but he has been hard enough. He was my coach in high school, but he’s not one of those coaches who puts his son in because he’s his son; he’s the guy who benched me in my junior year and didn’t start me in my junior year. It’s just something I developed all of my life and obviously without him and my whole family, and just my background experience in football, I wouldn’t be able to shine today. He’s definitely helped with my attitude, intuitiveness and playing with a chip on my shoulder.

Clay, why did you choose USC? Obviously you have family ties there, but did you get any other scholarship offers from any other schools?

Matthews: To be honest, I didn’t have any other offers coming out of high school. I didn’t play my junior year and although I was a starter in my senior year. I came on strong, but it was a little late in the recruiting process. I was still under-sized, needed to get faster, stronger and bigger...the whole nine yards. To be honest, I agree, there was a rich family history there at USC, it was close to home, only 45 minutes away. Obviously, what Coach Carroll has been doing is building his program in education. I didn’t know if this was going to be the career path I would take. Academics are very important to me and I think overall, USC was a great fit for me—it’s not your typical career, but it made me who I am today and I’m very fortunate.

Clay, when your dad benched you that junior year, did you let him know, “This may lead to you paying for my tuition rather than me getting a scholarship”?

Matthews: Not so much that he benched me, because there was someone better than me, and obviously the best player would get the chance to start. I didn’t deserve it (starting), and in my senior year I did. I think we both didn’t know what the future would be for me in football. He even asked me when I decided to go to SC if I wanted to choose a small school in order to be able to make an impact right away. I was very content on going to SC, and hopefully earning a scholarship, getting on a special teams and becoming a demon on those, but it turned out to be so much more than either of us thought could potentially happen. It’s just something you just keep sticking with and here I am, in a great position.

Being a kid that had that decision to make, you step on the USC campus and you've got Keith Rivers, Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing, all these big names 4/5 star recruits. Do you think your background helped you a lot, in terms of you being a walk-on, you weren’t intimidated and you thought, “I could still play with these guys and if I work hard enough, I could reach that level”?

Matthews: The only thing my background helped with was getting into the school and just being a walk-on, getting looked at. Everything else I had to earn. I’ve been working myself up into the ranks. And you're right, going to USC and playing against 5-star recruits like Keith, Rey and Cushing, it’s just part of the business. I knew going there, I was going to have to work that much harder than other players to be in the position that I am today. I’m very fortunate to have played with them. It does make us the players we are today, the fact that we had to compete against one other day in and day out. We are really fortunate for that experience. That is why we are in such a great position. I knew I would have to come every day and work my tail off, and that’s what I did.

As we sit here 36 days from the Draft, you're being spoken of as a guy who can go in the first round, with your more celebrated teammates Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing. How does that make you feel, in terms of the work you’ve done to get to this point?

Matthews: That was a testament to the hard work that I’ve put in. I’m very appreciative of who I am and the fact that it’s done, it’s been noticed and scouts and coaches understand what type of player I really am. To be able to talk with Cushing and Rey, it does mean a great deal to me. Just to be able to share experiences with them and to be as highly regarded as all the players on the team and be in this situation makes me feel very fortunate and blessed.

Your teammate Brian Cushing was quoted as saying his goal is becoming mentally a better player each and every day. Can you talk about that? Can you talk about the mental preparation that goes into it for you when it comes to an opponent?

Matthews: It takes a great deal of mental toughness to be in the position where we are right now. It’s only going to get more difficult. I think fortunately for me everyone knows my story now, that I had to work my way up. And that alone takes mental toughness. It’s been a grind going to the senior ball; it’s been a grind going to Indianapolis, and I can honestly say it really hasn’t been easy for me. I’ve been working hard at USC for five years, but it can get much harder. I’m just loving this opportunity and just having a blast with it, and taking it day by day. You know, it’s funny, my brother mentioned before this last season how neat it would be if I was to get drafted, even in the seventh round. Now, here we are talking about first round. It's something that we all dream about, and it requires a great deal of mental toughness and will only get tougher from here on out.

Talk about the influence Pete Carroll and your linebacker coach, Ken Norton, Jr., had on you during your collegiate career at USC.

Matthews: They had a great influence, obviously just being the people they are. Starting with Coach Carroll and his whole program, you really have to buy into it. Everyone has done a great job and that’s why it’s been so successful. A big part of the program is competing, day in and day out, coming in and working together, and at the same time having a little fight here and there, getting better, and working toward our goal. That’s why we’ve been so fortunate to be Rose Bowl Champions and National Champions—we’ve just been in the spotlight because of this program. Carroll is really a player’s coach, being a coach in the NFL and understanding how it works is more than just coaching; he’s your friend on the side as well. It makes it a lot easier to have a personal relationship. I can say the same for Coach Norton, he’s a player’s coach as well. He’s played in a league, and because he was so successful, he was able to relate it to us and all the linebackers. I think that’s why we’ve had so much success with him at the helm with our linebacker class. It’s really a testament to the coaches and the work we’ve put in. They have both done a good job and all the coaches have done a great job.

Do you had any private workouts with specific NFL teams coming up?

Matthews: I have a few coming up with the Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins, and I have my Pro Date on April 1st . After that, I have Atlanta coming up on the 4th, and I’m flying out to Cleveland a little later that month, I’m sure it’s going to be more stressful as time goes on. Hopefully after the Draft, I can put my feet up.

Time for three-and-out…first down: It's Saturday night—what is Clay Matthews doing?

Matthews: Clay Matthews usually stays in and watches a movie, either by himself or with a friend. I’m a big movie buff. I love being my own Siskel & Ebert or (Richard) Roeper.

Second down: Since you are such a movie buff, what is your favorite movie of all time?

Matthews: Of all time…that’s hard to say, there are some great ones out there. I really like Shawshank Redemption…Forrest Gump is so easy to watch. Those are those classic movies that you can pick up at any point and enjoy. Those are probably my top two favorite movies.

Alright Clay, I was going to ask you who has better hair, you or Rey Maualuga, but I am going to defer from the chat-room for third down. Someone from the chat-room wanted to know how many times do Snoop or Will Ferrell show up at USC practice?

Matthews: Well, I think your first question is no-brainer…having better hair myself. (Laughs) We do have celebrities come by a lot during practice, obviously being at USC in the middle of Los Angeles with no professional football team. We like to consider ourselves America’s team. We have celebrities coming through here and there. Snoop came by two times during my tenure there and Will Ferrell, he somehow makes a guest appearance usually twice a year. It’s real great, because it gets our mind off the whole business aspect of sports. We can just have a good time and really enjoy ourselves, but at the same time know what’s at stake. That’s what we love about SC, the fact that we can mix fun with business and be successful at doing it.

Photo Credit: Aggie Skirball, John Pyle (USC)

On Location: LB Notes From Indy

LB Aaron Curry, Wake Forest:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.

LB Gerald McRath, Southern Miss:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With:: Packers, Lions, Jaguars, Falcons, Texans, Bengals

LB Tyrone McKenzie, USF:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Rams, Panthers, Bengals, Jaguars
Fells like he could play all three linebacker positions

LB Scott McKillop, Pittsburgh:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Lions, Chargers

LB Jasper Brinkley, South Carolina:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Titans, Patriots, Falcons, Jaguars

LB Josh Mauga, Nevada:
Workout: Will not workout here at the combine.Teams Met With: Lions

LB Marcus Freeman, Ohio State:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Browns, Jets, Colts, Cowboys, Seahawks

LB James Laurinaitis, Ohio State:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.

LB Jason Phillips, TCU:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Jaguars, Cowboys, Cardinals, Falcons, Raiders, Packers

LB Zack Follett, Cal:
Workout: Not going to bench, but going to do the other drills.
Teams Met With: Cowboys, Browns, Bengals, Bill, Ravens, Packers, Chargers, Raiders

LB Darry Beckwith, LSU:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Training: API
Teams Met With:: Chargers, Cowboys, Seahawks, 49ers

LB Rey Maualuga:
Teams Met With: Cardinals, Saints, Chiefs,

LB Brian Cushing, USC:
Teams Met With: Giants, Jets, Bucs

LB Morris Wooten, Arizona State:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.

LB Kaluka Maiava, USC:
Workout: Will be doing all drills at the combine.
Teams Met With: Lions, Raiders, Packers

LB Anthony Felder, California:
Workout: Has Hamstring issue, depending on how he feels he will make that decision.

USC QB Decides to Declare

According to several reports, Mark Sanchez of USC will declare for the NFL Draft on Thursday, the final day draft eligible college underclassman could file for early entry. Sanchez, who was in his first year as a full-time starter, completed 65.8 percent of his passes for his 3,207 yards and 34 touchdowns as a junior, including a breakout performance on the national stage in the Rose Bowl against Penn St. Against the Nittany Lions the California native completed 28-of-35 passes for a career-high 413 yards and four touchdowns (no interceptions).

With Sanchez’s decision to leave coming on the heels of Sam Bradford announcing he would return to Oklahoma, the quarterback position is finally settled in terms of who will be available for signal caller starved clubs such as the Detroit Lions, who own the number one over pick. Sanchez joins Georgia’s Matthew Stafford, Ball St.’s Nate Davis and Josh Freeman of Kansas St. as junior quarterbacks that have declared for the 2009 Draft. Do not be surprised if they are the first four quarterbacks off the board come April, with Sanchez potentially challenging Stafford as the top prospect at the position.

Photo Credit: Kathe Osborne (USC)

Decision Time: QB Mark Sanchez, USC

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

Why Sanchez Should Play on Saturdays in 2009

1. Pad the resume – Sanchez did not become a full time starter until this year, though he did start three games for John David Booty in 2007. Sanchez has the raw talent to play with anyone, but it’s hard to imagine a team confidently picking him in the first round when they have so little tape to go on for him as a starter.

2. Develop those skills – Sanchez is a pretty solid quarterback, but is prone to the occasional bad decision. He’s often able to get away with those decisions--his receivers are able to recover bad throws due to their size advantage--but he won’t have that luxury in the NFL. Another season under the USC coaching staff’s excellent pro-style tutelage and he’ll learn how to be more careful with those throws and become a far more valuable commodity.

3. It’s not when you go, it’s where you go – At this point, given his lack of starting experience and occasional bad decisions, it’s unlikely Sanchez will maximize his draft potential. With all but two starters returning to the offense next year, Sanchez will be in a perfect position to not only improve his game, but improve his stock for the 2010 draft.

Why Sanchez Should Play on Sundays in 2009

1. Scarcity of position depth – While there are some decent quarterbacks, none of the senior class is terribly impressive overall. Even if Matthew Stafford, Sam Bradford and Tim Tebow declare, the class still will lack depth (and one could argue Tebow wouldn’t change that at all anyway). Sanchez may benefit from that lack of depth and wind up being drafted by a team desperate for potential and a pedigree like his…one willing to overlook his flaws.

2. Been there, done that – Yes, he’s only been a starter for a season. Sure, he needs some seasoning. But really, what does he have to prove? The 3,207 yards, 34 touchdowns and only 10 interceptions speak very well of his capabilities. So do his 164.64 quarterback rating and a 65.8 completion percentage. Another season of reps would be a good thing, but it would still only be college football-–he could be learning behind an NFL quarterback from an NFL staff.

3. Accidents happen – Sanchez already suffered a freak injury once, hurting his knee messing around in a summer practice. We all know that anything can happen on the field as well. Sanchez risks serious injury at his position and while it is noble to finish your degree, it’s something a player can do later on without risking the immense amount of money and his NFL career.

Garda's Take: Sanchez appears to have the potential to be a solid NFL signal-caller but right now, that’s all it is--potential. While he could gain the experience he needs while sharpening his skills in the NFL, it’s a tricky business, one that has wrecked the careers of multiple players who came out too early. With most of his offense coming back and a coaching staff as close as you can get to an NFL staff at USC, Sanchez is far better off returning for his senior season and getting his skill-set improved in a less pressure-filled situation that still is top notch.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee (USC)

Decision Time: S Taylor Mays, USC

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

Why Mays Should Play on Saturdays in 2009:

1. Finish what you started – Mays has had an outstanding career at USC, but the one thing he hasn’t done is capture a National Championship. Returning to a team that will likely retain a vast majority of its starters on both sides of the ball would give Mays an outstanding shot to go out on top.

2. Prove it to me – Mays was named one of the top two ‘workout warriors’ by ESPN the Magazine prior to the 2008 season. While he has been good in his first two full seasons as a starter, the more time he can spend shutting down wide receivers, the more scouts will see that he’s not just good in the weight room.

3. Experience and Conditioning – While Mays slipped into a starting spot as a freshman, he’s still learning every day. Part of that is in the film room and on the field under the excellent USC defensive coaching staff, but more of it is off the field. Mays has worked hard to get his body into shape for the rigors of the NFL and another year would put him in even better shape, both mentally and physically.

Why Mays Should Play on Sundays in 2009:

1. Momentum, go with it – You could argue that there are one or two safeties who are better than Mays, but the finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award can only really go downhill. A National Championship, while nice, won’t raise his stock any, and an injury would kill it.

2. He’s got the tools, he’s got the talent… – While it wasn’t the Combine or Pro Day, ESPN The Magazine’s article about the top workout guys in college raised Mays’ profile. His numbers are staggering and scouts love his measurables. Mays also showed his toughness by stepping into a starting position freshman year and his leadership ability by mentoring younger players.

3. …. And he’s shown it on the field too – While Mays’ numbers aren’t gaudy and he’s not running pick sixes back often, he is very consistent at his spot. That consistency – and the de-cleating hits he loves putting on opposing players – will make him a welcome addition to an NFL team and allow him to step in and contribute early.

Garda's Take: There just isn’t much left for Mays to prove. He’s a hard hitting, speedy player poised to excel at the next level. While the ‘workout warrior’ label has some people worried, Mays has proven that he has what it takes on the field as well as in the weight room.

Photo Credit: College Press Box(USC Athletics)

Player Anatomy: DT Fili Moala, USC

Character / Leadership Ability: Although Moala isn't incredibly vocal, he is considered by coaches to be the leader of the defensive line. He was arrested in March of 2008 for obstructing an officer after a fight but no charges were filed. No other character problems.

Competitive Nature / Work Ethic: Entered college very overweight and has worked hard to trim down. He is a strong competitor which sometimes gets overlooked due to the array of talent and fellow competitors around him at USC.

Football Intelligence: Will be a four-year starter by the time his career is over. Quickly picked up USC's pressure-based defense.

Size: Exceptional size for the position. Solid build. Good muscle mass. Frame can handle 10-15 more pounds. Lanky. Needs to get stronger.

Athletic Ability: Needs to continue working on being more flexible, which will improve his pass rush skills.

Toughness / Durability: Has been durable throughout his career, but has had some minor injuries.

Quickness: Has only average quickness, particularly against the pass. Decent off the snap, but he doesn't have the speed to chase down a quarterback or running back.

Strength: For a player of his build, Moala doesn't have as much strength as you'd expect, but it's still good enough to hold up against the run.

Instincts / Recognition: Great recognition skills, which come from being a career starter on the defensive line. Knows where the ball is going and is quick to react.

Pass Rush: Doesn't make a lot of impact plays against the pass. Lacks pass
rush moves. Relies only on his initial quickness and power off the snap.

Pursuit: While he works hard in pursuit, Moala has very little speed to chase down the ball carrier over a distance. Has to rely on his intelligence to quickly diagnose and make a play on the ball.

Run Defending: Uses his size to collapse running lanes between the tackles. Can handle double teams.

Tackling: Solid wrap-up tackler. Has the strength to hold on to finish off tackles.

Technique / Leverage: Plays too upright and loses leverage. Does a pretty good job of keeping a wide base to anchor. Needs to use his hands better to shed blocks.

Photo Credit: Dan Avila

Rose Bowl Picks

Pac-10 Insider Andrew Garda Says USC will win because....

For sure, both the Penn State Nittany Lions and the University of Southern California Trojans bring potent offenses and powerful defenses to the 2009 Rose Bowl. USC’s offense is ranked 14tt in total yards with Penn State right behind them at 15th. The Nittany Lions are ranked 10th in total points with 40.2 per game and while USC is a few spots behind with 37.5, they have been on a tear the last eight weeks, routing opponents 342 to 56. Both defenses are ranked high and stingy with points to the opposing team.

It’s the intangibles that may make the difference and only USC brings to the table a tremendous amount of experience in big games. USC has played in the national spotlight often--not just this season but seemingly every season this group has played for Coach Carroll. This will be the fourth straight BCS Bowl game this Trojan squad has been to – all Rose Bowls. This will be the seventh year in a row that USC has gone to a major Bowl game, including several for the National Championship.

Yes, Penn State Coach Joe Paterno has coached big games many times before, but it’s his players who will have to be the ones to perform under the pressure of a national spotlight, something they just have not done as often as the athletes on USC’s sideline.

When two teams are as close as USC and Penn State are on the field, it’s the intangibles that can make the difference in winning and losing. As I see it, many of the most important ones will land on USC’s side of the field and that will make all the difference in the end.

Plus, John Sears is picking Penn St. and he thought Northwestern was going to beat Missouri.

Big Ten Insider John Sears Says Penn State Will Win Because...

The Trojans’ only loss this year came at the hands of Oregon State, two weeks after Penn State had their way with the Beavers in a 45-14 romp. USC proved vulnerable when their between the tackles running was contained and when they were unable to control the time-of-possession (TOP) battle…both of those areas happen to be where Penn State thrives (first in the Big Ten in 32:02 TOP and rushing 212 yards/game). Unlike Ohio State, Penn State has complementary (and healthy) rushers with Royster and Green inside, as well as Daryll Clark and Derek Williams outside. Yes, the Trojans may be fast, but if the Nittany Lions can spread the field horizontally, they may find enough passing creases for their senior receiving corps to move the ball methodically. The question mark for Penn State will be their defense’s reaction to the Trojans’ run/pass balance and speed at the skill positions. Despite being built similarly to Ohio State defensively in their 4-3 scheme with strength at the linebacker position, Penn State can have success getting pass pressure without needing to blitz their linebackers (unlike Ohio State). So if Aaron Maybin, Josh Gaines and Maurice Evans are in Mark Sanchez’s earhole, Penn State will be in great position to maintain discipline with their linebackers and safeties in pursuit of USC’s talented backfield and receivers.

Easy call – while USC is already pushing the snooze button before kickoff, the all-time winningest coach is ready to tally one more victory onto his already-brilliant legacy.

Plus, Andrew Garda is picking USC and he thought Boise St. was going to beat TCU.

Photo Credit: College Press Box, USC, Penn St.

Rose Bowl: Penn State at USC

By JOHN SEARS/BIG TEN INSIDER & ANDREW GARDA/PAC-10 INSIDER

January 1st 2009* 4:30pm EST * ABC

In this year’s New Years Day match-up, #5 USC welcomes #6 Penn State to Pasadena for the 2009 Rose Bowl. Penn State hasn’t been here since 1995 while USC has played in the "Granddaddy of Them All" five times in the last six years. Both teams had overall great seasons, but fell short due to a single disappointing loss on the road and the fact that neither the Pac-10 nor the Big Ten were perceived as top conferences.

Head Coach Joe Paterno, already brandishing a legendary post-season legacy, visits Pasadena for the second time in his 43rd season with his sights set on an unprecedented 24th bowl game victory. But Penn State’s (11-1) decorated regular season as Big Ten co-champions somehow feels tarnished after a heart-breaking loss at Iowa, which all but eliminated the Nittany Lions’ hopes for a National Championship. If a Rose Bowl bid could ever be considered a wounded season, USC’s camp is finding its way to bring a little salt to the table, citing their desires to face steeper competition in the bowl season (eg, not the Big Ten). So this bowl game pits the Nittany Lions against an 11-1 USC in a classic Big-Ten/Pac-10 showdown – with both teams steeped in the tradition of winning (especially the big game) and coached by two college greats. And for Penn State, a little additional pressure is slowly converting into the 800-pound elephant in the room, which the Trojans attempted to address already on their own – the Big Ten’s diminishing reputation.

When the Trojans Have the Ball

Led by junior quarterback Mark Sanchez, the USC passing offense was 32nd in the nation in passing yards. Rumors abound that Sanchez may throw his name into the ring for this April’s NFL Draft and a good performance on this nationally televised stage would make his decision to depart a bit easier, and a lot more lucrative. Sanchez has played well this year but will need to bring his ‘A’ game against the 22nd ranked Nittany Lions defense, which has 16 interceptions to date. The Trojan quarterback is 11th in the nation with 30 touchdowns. His leading target is sophomore Arkansas transfer Damian Williams, who has 48 receptions for 707 yards with eight touchdowns. Senior wide receiver Patrick Turner is not far behind him with 45 catches for 667 yards and ten touchdowns. When USC isn’t moving the ball through the air, they'll be just fine utilizing the 17th ranked rushing offense in the nation. Lacking one single stud back, USC rotates tailbacks, often rolling with the hot hand. Sophomores Joe McKnight, CJ Gable and junior Stafon Johnson-all of whom totaled over 600 yards—are a formidable trio of toters. Gable has made some remarks about leaving USC for the NFL (Gable is a red-shirt sophomore and can enter the draft as he has been out of high school for three years) and like Sanchez, his decision may hinge upon putting forth a solid performance on a national stage. But with so many backs, USC’s run game sometimes seems to slip out of rhythm since no single back gets the bulk of the carries. Still, they move the ball well enough on the ground that Penn State’s solid defense will be unable to focus solely on the pass game. Given enough time, Sanchez and the offense can cut an opposing secondary to pieces and have outscored their opponents 342-56. Penn State coach Joe Paterno will need to make sure he keeps the adjustments coming in order to slow this offense down.

This year’s lesson learned for Penn State can come from Ohio State’s early season devastating loss at the hands of the Trojans. It was evident that USC held a superior advantage in team speed, which seems to be concentrated in their backfield. To this end, Penn State boasts the 9th ranked rush defense (98 yards/game) in the FBS, coming out of the run-focused Big Ten conference. The Nittany Lions’ front seven is anchored by playmaking defensive end (and Chuck Bednarik Award finalist) Aaron Maybin. Maybin obviously terrorizes offenses with his pass-rushing abilities, but also notched 19 tackles-for-loss and three forced fumbles. The best depth certainly comes from the end position, as Maybin was backed up by Maurice Evans and complemented on the left side by senior Josh Gaines. But Penn State’s 4-3 style defense tactically funnels runners to their ball-hawking linebacking corps -- the top three tacklers are the starting linebackers. Linebacker Navorro Bowman held mop up duty well, leading Penn State in tackles with 98 while stopping runners in the backfield with 11.5 tackles-for-loss. The captain of the secondary is undoubtedly senior free safety Anthony Scirrotto, placing fourth in tackles, but senior Lydell Sargeant leads the defense with four interceptions. The Nittany Lions’ secondary plays second-fiddle to the line and linebackers, and in order for defense to take control of USCs balanced pro-style offense, the front seven must be successful bringing down the Trojans’ ball carriers close to the line of scrimmage and pressuring Mark Sanchez with their front four.

When the Nittany Lions have the Ball

Penn State’s perfect storm of player development and seniority has led to an offensive as explosive as their celebrated 1994 campaign. The Nittany Lions took home number one honors in the Big Ten in scoring (11th in FBS), rushing (13th in FBS) and total offense (14th in FBS). Any preseason quarterback uncertainty quickly converted into production and efficiency right from Daryll Clark’s week one start. Clark’s development from athlete to passer was timely, and he has more than proved his efficiency with 26 total touchdowns versus only four interceptions. His ally has certainly been the ability of Evan Royster and Stephon Green to churn out over 1,700 yards on the ground, keeping defenses off balance. Royster’s style is based on consistency and slippery running between the tackles whereas Green is the home-run, breakaway vertical speed back. When Clark is charged with passing, his targets are plenty: the senior receiving crew consists of all-time school leader in receptions Deon Butler, the dependable route-runner Jordan Norwood, and the do-it-all playmaker Derrick Williams. Williams lines up at every skill position on offense, and provides game-breaking ability returning kickoffs and punts. Notwithstanding the playmakers and passing ability, the offense is still founded on solid rushing – if they can win without making a pass, despite lining up in the spread, they probably would.

USC’s defense is no slouch however—they've had three shutouts and have allowed more than ten points only once in the last nine games. The linebacker corps is led by Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing who are both likely to be top picks in the NFL Draft this April, not to mention fellow senior Clay Matthews, one of the natino's most improved players. This trio will be a tough match-up for Royster and Clark. Not only does the USC defense smother the run, but they can also be tough on the pass game. However Clark’s ability to effectively run the ball as well as pass, might give USC some troubles and if they fail to adjust, could open things up for the Nittany Lions. Not many teams can throws safeties the ilk of junior free safety Taylor Mays, a Thorpe Award finalist and senior strong safety Kevin Ellison. Both check in at 230 pounds, can run and lay the lumber. Leading the line in the trenches is senior
Fili Moala, an immovable force who can also make plays with his ability to penetrate.

Final Analysis

These two teams will both come in with a chip on their shoulders as both feel they had a legitimate shot at the title game and have been hampered by the perception their conferences are nowhere near as good as the SEC and Big XII. In the end, though they are pretty evenly matched, USC has far more big game and major bowl experience and will likely find a way to stand up under pressure and come away with the win. Or... has USC is already pushing the snooze button before kickoff, the all-time winningest coach is ready to tally one more victory onto his already-brilliant legacy.

Penn State Nittany Lions (11-1, 7-1)
Pass: Daryll Clark – 2,319 yards, 17 TDs
Run: Evan Royster – 1,202 yards, 12 TDs
Catch: Deon Butler – 713 yards, 7 TDs

USC Trojans (11-1, 8-1)
Pass: Mark Sanchez – 2,794 yards, 30 TDs
Run: Joe McKnight – 646 yards, 2 TDs / Stafon Johnnson 642 yards, 9TDs
Catch: Damian Williams – 707 yards, 8 TDs

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Penn St. University, USC), Kirby Lee

Inside the Pac-10 - Week Fifteen

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

No. 5 USC @ UCLA

While it is clear that Bruin Coach Neuheisel has a great deal of work to do, the Bruins showed that they have the will to play hard. However hard work alone cannot win conference championships and the Bruins are clearly lacking in the talent department compared to their cross-town rivals. UCLA was unable to repeat their stunning upset victory of two years ago and were run over by a Rose Bowl-bound Trojan squad, 28-7.

UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft did a better job protecting the ball than he did in previous weeks. However he and the rest of Norm Chow’s crew were unable to generate any offense against the smothering USC defense.

The Trojan offense had no such issues, piling up nearly 500 yards of offense. UCLA could not stop either phase of the USC attack as quarterback Mark Sanchez compiled 269 yards and a pair of touchdowns while the ground attack was led by Joe McKnight’s touchdown and 99 yards. Overall the rushing attack

With the win, USC secured its seventh straight 11-win season and a slot in the Rose Bowl for the fourth year in a row. While the Trojans had hopes for a National Championship, they will have to settle for a second trip to Pasadena and a battle against a much tougher opponent.

Washington at California

With their 48-7 annihilation at the hands of the California Golden Bears, the Washington Huskies have just finished one of the worst seasons in their school’s history, becoming the first Pac-10 team to ever go winless. They have now lost 14 straight games going back to last season. The winless Huskies allowed California running back Jahvid Best to run up a stunning 311 yards and four touchdowns. Best galloped for186 of those yards and three of his TDs before halftime.

Best’s record broke the old record of 283 yards and will add to his overall season total --already the fourth best in school history--when the Golden Bears head to the Emerald Bowl on December 27th.

Coach Tyrone Willingham finished his tenure as coach of the Huskies with yet another loss and the school is expected to announce on Monday that USC Offensive Coordinator Steve Sarkisian will be their next Head Coach.

Arizona State at Arizona

With their victory over the Arizona Sun Devils, the Arizona Wildcats secured their first winning season since 1998.

Led by a superb game from senior quarterback Willie Tuitama, who totaled 284 yards and a pair of touchdowns, the Wildcats inflicted a 31-10 beating on their in-state rivals. Running back Nic Grigsby continued his solid play as well, contributing 114 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

The Arizona defense stepped up, with cornerback Marquis Hundley intercepting a Rudy Carpenter pass and returning it all the way to the Arizona State 34 to set up Grigsby’s touchdown. Special teams contributed to the win as well. Mike Thomas’ dynamite 52-yard punt return for a touchdown highlighted their efforts.

Still, both teams looked relatively sloppy for much of the night, especially in the first half where they committed an excessive amount of penalties and made numerous physical errors .

As has often been the case during his career, Carpenter was under constant pressure and the Arizona State running game was nonexistent, unable to top more than 38 yards.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (USC)

PENN STATE AND USC TO PLAY IN THE 95th ROSE BOWL GAME PRESENTED BY CITI

PASADENA, Calif. – The BCS ranked No. 8 Penn State Nittany Lions and No. 5 Southern California Trojans will play in the 95th Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi, Tournament of Roses President Corky Conzonire announced today.

The 95th Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi will kick off Thursday, January 1, at 2:10 p.m. PST (5:10 p.m. EST) at the Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena with pre-game festivities starting at 1:30 p.m. PST (4:30 p.m. EST). The game will be televised nationally on ABC with Brent Musburger, Kirk Herbstreit and Lisa Salters.

“We are thrilled to have two outstanding, historic football programs in this year’s contest,” Conzonire said. “This will mark the 95th Rose Bowl Game and a special moment in our history as these teams faced each other in Pasadena in the inaugural game at the Rose Bowl Stadium in 1923.”

Penn State finished the regular season 11-1 overall and 7-1 in conference play, tying for first in the Big Ten Conference along with Ohio State. The Nittany Lions will be making their third appearance in the Rose Bowl Game. They are 1-1 in Rose Bowl Game appearances.

USC also finished the regular season 11-1 overall, 8-1 in conference play and champions of the Pac-10 Conference. The Trojans will be making their 33rd appearance in the Rose Bowl Game. They are 23-9 in Rose Bowl Game appearances.

Penn State and USC meet for the ninth time in history; the last time was on August 27, 2000, in the Kickoff Classic XVIII (East Rutherford, NJ) when the Trojans defeated the Nittany Lions, 29-5. Penn State is bowl eligible for the fourth consecutive time since 2006 while USC will be making its eighth consecutive bowl appearance and NCAA record seventh consecutive BCS game.

The Tournament of Roses, Big Ten Conference and Pac-10 Conference entered into its bowl partnership agreement in 1946. Modified in 1960, it is the oldest college football agreement between two major conferences in the United States. Since its inception, the two conferences have met 61 times in the Rose Bowl Game.

The 95th Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi is sold-out. For more information please visit www.tournamentofroses.com.

About the Pasadena Tournament of Roses
The 120th Rose Parade themed Hats Off to Entertainment will take place Thursday, Jan. 1, 2009 at 8 a.m. (PST) featuring majestic floral floats, high-stepping equestrian units and spirited marching bands showcasing the best in entertainment. Following the Rose Parade, the 95th Rose Bowl Game presented by Citi, will feature an exciting match-up between two championship teams, once again showcasing the best of collegiate football. The ABC broadcast of the Game will begin at 2 p.m. (PST). For additional information on Tournament of Roses please visit the official website at www.tournamentofroses.com.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (USC)

A Football Fan’s Four-Pack…

By JOHN GARRETT

Army vs. Navy (December 6, 12:00, CBS): In one of the greatest rivalries in all of sports, Army and Navy will battle for the 109th time in front of a sold-out crowd that will include President George W. Bush at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The Black Knights (3-8) and Midshipmen (7-4) will feature two of the most prolific rushing offenses in the nation when they fight for the Commander-In-Chief’s Trophy, which is presented annually to the winner of the football competition among the three major service academies – Army, Navy and Air Force. Navy leads the nation averaging 292 yards per game on the ground, while Army will feature the country’s ninth-best run-attack with an average of 254 yards per contest

Super Senior: Collin Mooney, FB, Army

Star of Tomorrow: Ricky Dobbs, QB, Navy

USC @ UCLA (December 6, 4:30, ABC): For the 37th time, the battle between these Pac-10 rivals will have a Rose Bowl berth on the line. No. 6 USC (10-1, 7-1 in Pac-10 play) is searching for its fourth straight and 33rd overall entrance to the Rose Bowl, while UCLA (4-7, 3-5 in Pac-10 play) would love nothing more than to repeat the stunning performance that upset the Trojans in 2006 – the last time USC traveled to Pasadena for the rivalry – which knocked the Men of Troy out of the BCS Championship Game. But keep in mind that USC has won eight straight games, which has guaranteed them at least a share of the Pac-10 title for the seventh straight time. A win over the Bruins would extend its NCAA record streaks of BCS bowl berths and 11-win seasons to seven consecutive.

Super Senior: Patrick Turner, WR, USC

Star of Tomorrow: Brian Price, DT, UCLA

Arizona St. @ Arizona (December 6, 8:00, FSN): The Wildcats and Sun Devils will meet for the 82nd time in a rivalry that dates back to 1899. Arizona State (5-6, 4-4 in Pac-10 play), which won 20-17 in Tempe last year, has won five of the last six contests although four of the last seven games have been decided by a touchdown or less. Arizona (6-5, 4-4 in Pac-10 play) will have to contend with a Sun Devil defense that tied an NCAA record with four defensive touchdowns last week – its fourth game in a row with a defensive score – and one that hasn’t allowed a touchdown in 10 quarters. At stake in the Duel in the Desert is the Territorial Cup, the oldest rivalry trophy in the NCAA.

Super Senior: Rudy Carpenter, QB, Arizona State

Star of Tomorrow: Rob Gronkowski, TE, Arizona

Cincinnati @ Hawaii (December 6, 11:30, ESPN2): Coming off of their first Big East championship, the No. 13 Bearcats (10-2, 6-1 in Big East play) are tied for the highest ranking in school history and will make their first appearance in a Bowl Championship Series game. Hawaii (7-5, 5-3 in WAC play) secured a bowl berth for the third straight year and sixth in the last seven years after a 24-10 victory over Washington State last Saturday. The Warriors accepted a bid to the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl for the fifth time since 2002. Both teams will be a bit unfamiliar with each other considering the last time Hawaii played a Big East opponent was when they took on Boston College in 1992.

Super Senior: David Veikune, DL, Hawaii

Star of Tomorrow: Mardy Gilyard, WR, UC

Photo Credit: College Press Box (USC)

Top 25 - Week Fourteen

1. Alabama Crimson Tide (1)
Record: 12-0 (8-0)
Coaches Poll: 1
Associated Press: 1
Last Week: Won vs. Auburn 36-0
Alabama ended its six-game losing streak versus Auburn with style – turning in the largest Iron Bowl blowout for either program since 1962 – yet most are expecting their run to end this week.
Up Next: 12/6: SEC Champ. Game vs. Florida



2. Oklahoma Sooners (2)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 2
Associated Press: 4
Last Week: Won @ Ok. St. 61-41
With four straight 60-point games for Oklahoma, no team has more flair than Boomer Sooner. Sophomore Sam Bradford takes the Heisman lead with some help from Jermaine Gresham.
Up Next: 12/6: Big 12 Champ. Game vs. Missouri

3. Texas Longhorns (3)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 3
Associated Press: 3
Last Week: Won vs. Texas A & M 49-9
Texas did a great job of pushing 45-35, while pretending 39-33 was meaningless. The campaigning worked with the voters, but did not sway the passionless computer rankings.
Up Next: Bowl Game

4. Florida Gators (4)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 4
Associated Press: 2
Last Week: Won @ Florida St 45-15
The Gators looked comfortable in the Tallahassee swamp, with speedsters Chris Rainey and Jeffery Demps (combined 186 yards) skating past ‘Nole defenders on a wet Bobby Bowden Field.
Up Next: 12/6: SEC Champ. Game vs. Alabama

5. Texas Tech (6)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 8
Associated Press: 8
Last Week: Won vs. Baylor 35-28
Without Michael Crabtree in the second half (injured ankle), Graham Harrell still led the Red Raiders back from a 14-point deficit. Has Bob Stoops’ thank you note arrived yet?
Up Next: Bowl Game

6. Southern Cal Trojans (5)
Record: 10-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 5
Associated Press: 5
Last Week: Won vs. Notre Dame 38-3
Like Lucy pulling the football away from Charlie Brown, Pete Carroll toyed with Charlie Weis last Saturday. The Trojans did not allow a first down until the final play of the third quarter. Is the thank you note for Oregon’s Mike Bellotti in the mail yet?
Up Next: 12/6: @ UCLA

7. Penn St. Nittany Lions (7)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 6
Associated Press: 6
Last Week: Season Complete
Penn St. wants USC in the Rose Bowl – be careful what you wish for – you might just get it.
Up Next: 1/1: Rose Bowl

8. Utah Utes (8)
Record: 12-0 (8-0)
Coaches Poll: 7
Associated Press: 7
Last Week: Season Complete
They appear either Fiesta Bowl or Sugar Bowl bound with Texas, Florida or Alabama waiting.
Up Next: Bowl Game

9. Boise St. Broncos (13)
Record: 12-0 (8-0)
Coaches Poll: 9
Associated Press: 9
Last Week: Won vs. Fresno St. 61-10
After playing more of supporting role for much of his final campaign in Boise, Ian Johnson broke free for his first 100-yard game of the season.
Next: Bowl Game

10. Ohio St. Buckeyes (11)
Record: 10-2 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 10
Associated Press: 10
Last Week: Season Complete
The Oregon St. loss could open a slot in the BCS for the Buckeyes if USC clinches the Pac-10 title.
Up Next: Bowl Game

11. Oklahoma St. Cowboys (9)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 15
Associated Press: 14
Last Week: Lost vs. Oklahoma 61-41
The Pokes are a very good team, with the misfortune of playing in the toughest division maybe in the history of college football.
Up Next: Bowl Game

12. TCU Horned Frogs (14)
Record: 10-2 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 11
Associated Press: 11
Last Week: Season Complete
Leading the top total defense and run defense, not to mention the most prolific pass rush, is a major reason why Jerry Hughes is a Bronko Nagurski Finalist (nation’s best defender).
Next: Bowl Game

13. Cincinnati Bearcats (17)
Record: 10-2 (6-1)
Coaches Poll: 12
Associated Press: 13
Last Week: Won vs. Syracuse 30-10
Before Brian Kelly came to Cincinnati, the Bearcats reached 10 wins once in the program’s history – way back in 1951. Now they have two in two seasons, so it’s no surprise that Kelly is one of the hottest coaches in the business. Cincinnati also clinched the Big East title, their first conference title of any kind since 1964, when they won the Missouri Valley Conference. Win number 11 is on the horizon.
Up Next: 12/6: @ Hawaii

14. Ball St. Cardinals (15)
Record: 12-0 (8-0)
Coaches Poll: 13
Associated Press: 12
Last Week: Won vs. WMU 45-22
With three touchdown runs MiQuale Lewis reached 20 scores on the season, setting a school record, as the Cardinals won their 12th game.
Up Next: 12/5: MAC Champ. Game vs. Buffalo

15. Missouri Tigers (12)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 17
Associated Press: 19
Last Week: Lost vs. Kansas 40-37
It’s not fair to the Jayhawks to say the Tigers were looking ahead to the Big XII Championship Game. Chase Daniel went for 391 total yards.
Up Next: 12/6: Big 12 Champ. Game vs. Oklahoma

16. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (20)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 16
Associated Press: 15
Last Week: Won @ Georgia 45-42
The Ramblin’ Wreck has rumbled their way 881 yards rushing – in their last two games – with freshman Roddy Jones joining sophomore Jonathan Dwyer to form a deadly duo. They have two more years to run all over the ACC.
Up Next: Bowl Game

17. Georgia Bulldogs (10)
Record: 9-3 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 19
Associated Press: 17
Last Week: Lost vs. Georgia Tech 45-42
This was an utter collapse for the Dawgs, who have allowed at least 38 points in four of their final five games, as Tech ran all over them.
Up Next: Bowl Game

18. Boston College Eagles (21)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 20
Associated Press: 18
Last Week: Won vs. Maryland 28-21
Coach Jeff Jagodzinski wins his second Atlantic Division title in as many seasons, this time led by freshmen Dominique Davis (two touchdown passes) and Montel Harris (116 rushing yards).
Up Next: 12/6: ACC Champ. Game vs. Va. Tech

19. Oregon Ducks (24)
Record: 9-3 (7-2)
Coaches Poll: 14
Associated Press: 16
Last Week: Won @ Oregon St. 65-38
One of the sweetest things in sports is knocking your rival out, which is exactly what the Ducks did on Saturday. “To go out and ruin somebody’s dreams like that, it feels real good,” was how Oregon receiver Jaison Williams put it. Jeremiah Johnson ran for 219 yards in the victory.
Up Next: Bowl Game

20. Michigan St. Spartans (18)
Record: 9-3 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 21
Associated Press: 21
Last Week: Season Complete
Running back Javon Ringer was joined by defenders Greg Jones and Otis Wilson on the All-Big Ten Conference First Team.
Up Next: Bowl Game

21. Pittsburgh Panthers (22)
Record: 8-3 (4-2)
Coaches Poll: 23
Associated Press: 23
Last Week: Won vs. West Virginia 19-15
Behind a career-high 183 yards (two touchdowns) from sophomore LeSean “Shady” McCoy the Panthers were able to win their second straight Backyard Brawl over rival West Virginia.
Up Next: 12/6 @ UConn

22. Brigham Young Cougars (19)
Record: 10-2 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 18
Associated Press: 20
Last Week: Season Complete
For the first time in school history the Cougars had three Academic All-Americans in David Oswald, Kellen Fowler and Matthew Bauman.
Up Next: Bowl Game

23. Oregon St. Beavers (16)
Record: 8-4 (7-2)
Coaches Poll: 24
Associated Press: 25
Last Week: Lost vs. Oregon 65-38
The Beavers could not be more disappointed as they missed out on their first Rose Bowl bid in over 40 years. Let’s not forget their loss in August to Stanford in the final seconds.
Up Next: Bowl Game

24. Northwestern Wildcats (25)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 22
Associated Press: 24
Last Week: Season Complete
With only one member on the First and Second All-Big Ten Teams, the ‘Cats were a true team.
Up Next: Bowl Game

25. Mississippi Rebels (NR)
Record: 8-4 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 25
Associated Press: 22
Last Week: Won vs. MSU 45-0
The Rebels are hot. Ole Miss dominated the Bulldogs, out-gaining them 461 yards to 37.
Up Next: Bowl Game

Dropped Out: West Virginia (23)

Five to Watch: California, Iowa, Nebraska, Tulsa, Virginia Tech

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Alabama)

Pac-10 Preview - Week Fourteen

By ANDREW GARDA - PAC-10 INSIDER

#24 Oregon at #16 Oregon State

The Civil War is rejoined for the 112th time, as the two rivals clash in Corvallis with a ton on the line. Regardless of circumstance both teams play for pride, but for the Oregon State Beavers there is more at stake than that – the Pac-10 Conference. It would be OSU’s first Rose Bowl appearance in 44 years.

The Beavers had a rough start to the season, dropping their first two contests, including a drubbing to their would be Rose Bowl opponent Penn State. But the team turned it around and has been on a tear. Much of their success has been due to the spectacular play of freshman running back Jacquizz Rodgers, who will not be available for this game. It will be a challenge to overcome his loss. His older brother, wide receiver James, was able to step in as a replacement tailback last week to the tune of 102 yards and a touchdown. Handing him the ball should be quarterback Lyle Moevao, who missed last week with a shoulder injury. James Rodgers was key in last season’s double overtime victory at Oregon.

The Ducks’ offense isn’t too shabby, with their two-headed backfield of Jeremiah Johnson and LeGarrette Blount Oregon. Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli is coming off of the best game of his career, a 298-yard, two-touchdown performance versus the Arizona Wildcats.

Either offense is capable of putting up some points and it will be up to the defenses to step up. The team that is able to make plays on defense side of the ball will likely be on the winning side of this battle.

Notre Dame @ #5 USC

Once upon a time, this was one of THE biggest rivalries in college football. This is the 80th meeting between the two teams and while a long list of critical, hard-fought and exciting games can be compiled with Notre Dame struggling so badly and USC’s recent domination – the game has certainly lost some of its luster. Charlie Weiss’ team has had a rough season coming off a horrid loss to Syracuse at home last week.

Mark Sanchez, who threw for four touchdowns in last year’s meeting, is healthy and playing solid ball. The run game has been firing on all cylinders again, led by Stafon Johnson (115 yards and a pair of touchdowns last week). With USC it’s just as likely that CJ Gable or one of the other backs in the stable might break free for a big game.

USC’s defense is dominant – arguably the best in college football. Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, who has played well for stretches this season, will need to be mistake-free again against a USC defense that excels at bringing heat and forcing turnovers. Only able to muster 41 yards on the ground against the Orange, the Irish will struggle to have a balanced offense against USC.

Washington State @ Hawaii

With two wins under their belt, the Cougars can at least take solace in the fact that they end their season in the gorgeous state of Hawaii. Coming off a tight win over in-state rival Washington, could Washington State forge a short win streak to finish out their otherwise miserable season.

Junior quarterback Kevin Lopina has yet to throw a touchdown, but has no problem finding members of opposing teams (11 interceptions). He has to take care of the ball better and find a way to get it to talented receivers Brandon Gibson and Jeshua Anderson.

Hawaii quarterback Inoke Funaki has had a rough season himself, taking over for Colt Brennan with a touchdown-to-interception ratio of 6-12. While Wazzu doesn’t have much to play for, a seventh win for Hawaii could have bowl implications.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee (USC)

Top 25 - Week Thirteen

1. Alabama Crimson Tide (2)
Record: 11-0 (7-0)
Coaches Poll: 1
Associated Press: 1
Last Week: BYE
The Crimson Tide are the lone undefeated team coming out of the big six conferences, yet despite their No. 1 ranking across the board, Alabama is not getting a whole lot of love from the public.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Auburn; 12/6: vs. Florida


2. Oklahoma Sooners (5)
Record: 10-1 (6-1)
Coaches Poll: 2
Associated Press: 3
Last Week: Won vs. Texas Tech 65-21
It appears Oklahoma has fixed the deficiencies in their pass defense. Offensively, a healthy DeMarco Murray brings a special burst and another dynamic threat with the football.
Up Next: 11/29: @ Oklahoma St.


3. Texas Longhorns (3)
Record: 10-1 (6-1)
Coaches Poll: 4
Associated Press: 4
Last Week: Won @ Kansas 35-7
The ‘Horns were in a no-win situation. They need Oklahoma to win, but did the Sooners have to be so damn impressive? Texas has every right to feel the Big 12 system has not served them.
Up Next: 11/22: BYE; 11/27: vs. Texas A & M

4. Florida Gators (4)
Record: 10-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 3
Associated Press: 2
Last Week: Won vs. Citadel 70-19
While 70 points may be 70 points – the Citadel is the Citadel – so no style points for the Gators. Chris Rainey (142 yards) averaged an ungodly 20.3 yards per rush on his seven carries.
Up Next: 11/29: @ Florida St.; 12/6: vs. Alabama

5. Southern Cal Trojans (6)
Record: 9-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 5
Associated Press: 5
Last Week: BYE
The Men of Troy are somewhat helpless – paralyzed by their loss to Oregon St. suffered way back in September – as an 11-win season may not be enough to smell the roses.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Notre Dame; 12/6: @ UCLA

6. Texas Tech (1)
Record: 10-1 (6-1)
Coaches Poll: 8
Associated Press: 7
Last Week: Won @ Oklahoma 65-21
The Red Raiders were absolutely blitzed in Norman – were they exposed? No – impressive wins over Texas and Oklahoma St. should not be forgotten. They can still win the Big 12 South.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Baylor

7. Penn St. Nittany Lions (7)
Record: 11-1 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 6
Associated Press: 6
Last Week: Won vs. Michigan St. 49-18
Neither rain, nor snow nor sleet was going to keep the Nittany Lions from clinching the Big Ten Title. One player who was hot despite the weather was quarterback Darryl Clark – he threw for 341 yards and four touchdowns.
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

8. Utah Utes (8)
Record: 12-0 (8-0)
Coaches Poll: 7
Associated Press: 8
Last Week: Won vs. BYU 48-24
Brian Johnson proved to be a money player once again, completing an unconscious 30-of-36 passes for 306 yards and four scores on senior day.
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

9. Oklahoma St. Cowboys (9)
Record: 9-2 (5-2)
Coaches Poll: 12
Associated Press: 11
Last Week: BYE
It would have been fun to be a fly on the wall watching the Sooners’ onslaught of Texas Tech with Coach Mike Gundy and company.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Oklahoma (Final Game)

10. Georgia Bulldogs (10)
Record: 9-2 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 13
Associated Press: 13
Last Week: BYE
How grueling is the SEC season? Even energetic Knowshon Moreno was looking forward to a day off to rest up – hard to believe coming from a back who pops up no matter how hard the hit.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Georgia Tech (Final Game)

11. Ohio St. Buckeyes (11)
Record: 9-2 (6-1)
Coaches Poll: 10
Associated Press: 10
Last Week: Won vs. Michigan 42-7
The big play Buckeyes – 59-yard touchdown run by Chris “Beanie” Wells, 53-yard scoring grab by Brian Hartline and a 49-yard touchdown run Daniel “Boom” Herron – overcame a slow start against Michigan.
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

12. Missouri Tigers (12)
Record: 9-2 (5-2)
Coaches Poll: 12
Associated Press: 12
Last Week: BYE
Despite the bye, the Tigers had themselves a busy week…unrelated to receiving the Big 12 North Trophy (who knew?), which was delivered to Mizzou by Big 12 Commissioner Dan Beebe. Headman Gary Pinkel was signed to an extension, ending speculation of his departure.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. KU; 12/6: vs. Big 12 South

13. Boise St. Broncos (13)
Record: 11-0 (7-0)
Coaches Poll: 9
Associated Press: 9
Last Week: Won @ Nevada 41-34
Kellen Moore threw for a career-high 414 yards (three touchdowns), but also saw two of his three interceptions returned for touchdowns.
Next: 11/28: Fresno St. (Final Game)

14. TCU Horned Frogs (15)
Record: 10-2 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 14
Associated Press: 14
Last Week: Won vs. Air Force 44-10
The Horned Frogs turned in a dominating performance against Air Force, putting up 30 first downs and 504 yards while holding the Falcons’ triple-option to seven first downs and 161 yards.
Next: Regular Season Complete

15. Ball St. Cardinals (17)
Record: 11-0 (7-0)
Coaches Poll: 15
Associated Press: 15
Last Week: Won @ UCM 31-24
Nate Davis was out-gunned by Dan LeFevour, 345 yards to 175, but the Cardinals’ quarterback found the end zone four times.
Up Next: 11/25: Western Michigan

16. Oregon St. Beavers (19)
Record: 8-3 (7-1)
Coaches Poll: 17
Associated Press: 17
Last Week: Won @ Arizona 19-17
Sean Canfield stepped in nicely for Lyle Moevao completing 20-of-32 passes for 224 yards and a score, while James Rogers helped them overcome an injury to Jacquizz with 102 rushing yards.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Oregon (Final Game)

17. Cincinnati Bearcats (20)
Record: 9-2 (5-1)
Coaches Poll: 16
Associated Press: 16
Last Week: Won vs. Pittsburgh 28-21
Pittsburgh made the ‘Cats one-dimensional and Tony Pike was up to the challenge, airing it out for 309 and three scores in the best performance of his career. Brian Kelly is now one win away from a BCS bid.
Up Next: 11/29: vs. Syracuse; 12/6: @ Hawaii

18. Michigan St. Spartans (14)
Record: 9-3 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 21
Associated Press: 22
Last Week: Lost @ Penn St. 49-18
Overmatched by the Nittany Lions, Michigan St. isn’t happy with their final act, but as a whole it was a very fine season for Head Coach Mark Dantonio in his second year.
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

19. Brigham Young Cougars (16)
Record: 10-2 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 19
Associated Press: 20 (Tied)
Last Week: Lost @ Utah 48-24
Max Hall was intercepted five times by the Utes in Saturday’s “Holy War” loss – making the junior quarterback 43-of-83 with no touchdowns and seven interceptions in the Cougars’ two biggest games of the season (loss at TCU).
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

20. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (24)
Record: 8-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 23
Associated Press: 18
Last Week: Won vs. Miami 41-23
Tech manhandled the ‘Canes to the tune of 472 yards rushing – no that is not a typo – the highest rushing total in 20 years allowed by Miami.
Up Next: 11/29: @ Georgia (Final Game)

21. Boston College Eagles (NR)
Record: 7-3 (3-3)
Coaches Poll: 22
Associated Press: 20 (Tied)
Last Week: Won @ Wake Forest 24-21
The Eagles made it harder on themselves than it had to be courtesy of the two fumbles Wake Forest returned for touchdowns. BC overcame their own gaffes and an injury to Chris Crane.
Up Next: 11/22: NC State; 11/29: @ Duke

22. Pittsburgh Panthers (21)
Record: 7-3 (3-2)
Coaches Poll: NR
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Lost @ Cincinnati 28-21
Their goal of winning the Big East became a long shot in Cincinnati as they allowed the Bearcats to roll off 28 straight points. Pitt scored 14 points in the final stanza, but it was too little, too late.
Up Next: 11/28: vs. WVU; 12/6 @ UConn

23. West Virginia Mountaineers (NR)
Record: 7-3 (4-1)
Coaches Poll: 25
Associated Press: NR
Last Week: Won @ Louisville 35-21
Pat White is officially the top running quarterback in college football history.
Up Next: 11/28: @ Pittsburgh; 12/6: vs. USF

24. Oregon Ducks (22)
Record: 8-3 (6-2)
Coaches Poll: 18
Associated Press: 19
Last Week: BYE
Would it surprise you if Oregon was rooting for Oregon State last week, so they could be the ones to ruin their rivals’ Rose Bowl chances?
Up Next: 11/29: @ Oregon St. (Final Game)

25. Northwestern Wildcats (NR)
Record: 9-3 (5-3)
Coaches Poll: 20
Associated Press: 24
Last Week: Won vs. Illinois 27-10
The Wildcats take home the Sweet Sioux Tomahawk, a trophy given out since 1947.
Up Next: Regular Season Complete

Dropped Out: LSU (18), North Carolina (23), Maryland (25)

Five to Watch: California, Florida St., Iowa Mississippi, South Carolina

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department