Here’s where I think USC players will go in tomorrow’s draft:
Matt Barkley, QB: 1st-2nd round
Robert Woods, WR: 1st-2nd round
T.J. McDonald, S: 4th-5th round
Khaled Holmes, C: 4th-5th round
Nickell Robey, CB: 5th-6th round
Wes Horton, DE: 6th-7th round
Curtis McNeal, TB: 6th-7th round
Jawanza Starling, S: 6th-7th round
Tony Burnett, LB: 7th round-FA
Drew McAllister, S: 7th round-FA
Kyle Negrete, P: 7th round-FA
Seems pretty reasonable. And it doesn’t rival most of the Pete Carroll years.
So here’s the question: Does USC no longer attract as many top prospects, or does it fail to realize prospects’ potential as well, or both?
Despite all the negative publicity and losses, they’re still going to have 5+ players taken. You can pitch that as a coach, with the sanctions, in terms that show 1/3 of the each recruiting class moves on to the NFL. The rest will probably be guaranteed invites to spring workouts and a chance to catch on as a FA. Plus, they get degrees from a top 30 university, and top 5 all time football program.
Let’s assume that all you say is correct. It remains true that the PC drafts were materially better. So I ask again: does USC no longer attract as many top prospects, or does it fail to realize prospects’ potential as well, or both?
Drew McAllister will be picked higher.
Really stepping out by picking 2 rounds someone will be picked.