Still time to deposit a question in the Open Forum.
Q: uscmike said:
Time to call your shot:
What sanctions, if any, will the NCAA impose on the USC basketball and/or football programs? As always, thanks for the forum, Scott.
A: I think the basketball sanctions were severe enough to not merit further action. If the NCAA disagrees, USC could be in real trouble. Nothing will surprise me in football. If the NCAA believes USC was not aware of Reggie Bush’s infractions, maybe forfeits will be the main penalty. But if they think USC knew, then all bets are off.
Q: Gordon said:
Was Pete Carroll leaving the worst thing that could have happened to Matt and Les Barkley? Do you know if Carroll has contacted Kiffin and asked him to stick with Barkley regardless of what he sees on the practice field?
A: I don’t think Lane Kiffin will be much different than Pete Carroll. He wants a pro-style offense and Matt Barkley is the type of quarterback he wants to run it. Plus i’m sure Pete Carroll has offered his advice on the situation.
Q: redondophil said:
Scott, Given Monte Kiffin’s resume at the pro level and his mentorship of Pete Carroll, why wasn’t that enough of a draw to some of the previously committed defensive players that spurned SC for UCLA? How much of a role did he have in recruiting? Doesn’t the lack of depth at LB counter the argument that some would fear the competitive environment? Thanks.
A: I think the short period that the new coaching staff had to recruit hurt with some players, especially those that were drawn to Pete Carroll, who is a much more charismatic figure. Dietrich Riley in particular changed his mind when Carroll left. And Rick Neuheisel does have some similar personality traits to Pete Carroll. There’s always a fear of the unknown for some recruits when a coaching change takes place and given the circumstances, Kiffin did a pretty good job holding the class together. But it did hurt that only two linebackers signed. That could be a real issue next season if there are injuries. It’s also time for Jarvis Jones to step forward after an indifferent first season.