In case you missed it earlier, I spoke to a an NFL scout who saw the USC-Oregon State game.
USC’s defensive line got plenty of blame for failing to stop Oregon State tailback Jacquizz Rodgers, but an NFL scout who watched the game said the Trojans’ linebackers were equally to blame.
“The way USC’s defense is set up, the linebackers are supposed to fill the gaps and make those tackles,” said the scout, who did not wish to be identified. “It’s too easy to say the defensive line wasn’t doing its job. The linebackers are supposed to be All-Americans, and they didn’t have a great night either.”

Here’s the latest ballot for the Associated Press Top 25 poll.
Continue reading “The Top 25” »

BCS guru Jerry Palm does not think the Pac-10’s problems will necessarily hurt USC.

Pete Carroll said USC was perplexed at Oregon State, even at halftime.
“There was a little difference of opinion,” he said. “I asked, `Did they feel they were stronger, tougher and more aggressive than you thought?’ Some said yes, some said no. They didn’t have it nailed.”

“We’re in a recovery mode for conference.”
— USC coach Pete Carroll

Meanwhile, Virginia coach Al Groh is killing USC. Duke snapped a 25-game losing streak with a resounding victory over the Cavaliers. How bad an opponent were the Cavaliers to play this season? With or without Peter Lalich.

Ed Orgeron indirectly helped USC today. He got fired at Ole Miss, which hired Houston Nutt and allowed the Rebels to snap a nine-game SEC losing streak with an upset of Florida. As we mentioned yesterday, there are many losses ahead for SEC and Big 12 teams.
Does Georgia lose tonight for the trifecta?

Here’s the grades on the first loss of the season.
Continue reading “USC-Oregon State Report Card” »

USC coach Pete Carroll on Joe McKnight’s effort at punt returns.
“He misjudged one and had to get away from the other one,” Carroll said. “ other one just a short kick to his left. He really couldn’t get to the ball.”