Lesson Learned
A lot of comparisons were made around USC on Monday between the 2003 and 2006 seasons because of the similarities (first-year quarterbacks, freshmen tailbacks). But when USC lost its fourth game in 2003, consider that Reggie Bush entered that contest with just 20 carries and LenDale White 15.
The same mistake is not being made this time around. Emmanuel Moody already has 37 carries (and 258 yards). USC coach Pete Carroll made sure he didn't wait too long this time around to have a freshman tailback ready to go for Pac-10 play. Whatever else happens, Moody's got more experience than Bush/White at a similar stage.
I don't have any problems with the comparison, and I don't mind winning 20-3. I just finished watching the AZ game for the fourth time and it was fun. But, the offense is winning with talent, not scheme. I see three problems: (1) receivers dropping passes, (2) inability of Booty and receivers to hook up on long passes, and (3) every time Booty checks-off at the line of scrimmage it is to a running play off tackle. By the end of the game, AZ wasn't allowing anything when Booty checked off. They just stacked the line of scrimmage and stuffed the run. Pointing out problems isn't being negative. By November, this team needs to be, and I think will be, better. Oregon, Cal, ND, UCLA -- they have talent too and if I can see it on tape, they can too.
Wait, I'm confused. Scott, are you saying something POSITIVE about Pete Carroll? You're not on the take now, are you?
Scott -
What's your feeling on SC's new restrictive access for reporters around the players? Do you think it will revert to a more relaxed state once the Reggie Bush stuff dissapates? Thanks.
Say Scott,
Quick question on the Nebraska game and the invited recruits. I know Price was there, but do you know of others that were invited?
Thanks USCjoe74
This is what I love about Pete Carroll. He learns from his mistakes. When he talks about the loss to Cal in 03, he points to two factors: how he handled the bye week prior to the game, and how the pre-game routine was messed up. He hasn't let similar situations excape his grasp since. He's also said that on his first trip to South Bend, he took the team on a tour of the College Football Hall of Fame, which he thought detracted from the team's focus. He said he'll never let happen again. The guy is smart.
The only reason Bush & White had fewer carries was that Carrol wanted to keep Dennis as the starter (even after the other two proved better). Washington hasn't shown that yet. And I'm convinced he's not the top talent unless he gets healthy and shows some moves...
Chet -
I agree with your assessment of Washington, yet why not make him the fullback, as that seems to be the kind of running he does best, and then go with the others at tailback.
With these runners, the wishbone would be fun to watch in action!