Trojans Leading Despite Brain Cramps
Ack. What a goofy game. USC has been miles better than Arizona State for most of the first half, but until 10 points in the final five minutes of the half they were tied at 17-17.
Giving up a 98-yard kickoff return hurts you. As does a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on Sedrick Ellis to keep alive another ASU scoring drive.
And then there was the Trojans unable to score a touchdown after first-and-goal on the 2. That led to the tiebreaking field goal, instead.
USC had some great play-calling early, discombobulating the Sun Devils, but ASU got the big kick return and 10 points on long drives
It should be something like 31-10 USC. Instead it's 27-17, and it's a game. For sure.
John David Booty has been sharp, but the Trojans are struggling in every other part of the game -- rushing, defense and special teams. They also have been flagged seven time for 59 yards, to ASU's once for 10.
Anyway, I'm not impressed with either team, so far. But a W is a W, and it would be huge for the Trojans if they can escape with one, especially after their sometimes dopey first 30 minutes.
(Clock time: Real-life, the first half took about two hours.)
Oh. Little Richard on the field now.