The Interception
Quarterback John David Booty on his final pass getting intercepted by UCLA linebacker Eric McNeal.
``The dude tipped it to himself,’’ Booty said. ``That’s happened to me lately. Also against Oregon.’’
A tip also happened on the failed two-point conversion against Oregon State. And several other games, although USC seemed in denial all season about this weak spot.
Offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin said McNeal only made the interception by failing to blitz.
``(McNeal) was supposed to come and didn’t,’’ Kiffin said.`` He screwed up. It was unfortunate the way it happened.’’



JDB, get a pulse. Its OK to get pissed that yr pass got intercepted on the last drive of the game against yr rival. Stop being a robot.
I watched the replay. The reason McNeal stopped his blitzing was because JDB was staring down the receiver. McNeal was watching JDB's eyes.
no ediot. stop taking the blame off yourself. you called a stupid play just like you always did...and it's no Booty's fauly 100%. he's not leinart who would've brought USC back to win.
that 3 step drop pass has not worked. it usually gets tipped until today. remember the 2 point conversion at the end of the oregon state game the 2nd play in the 3rd quarter of the notre dame game, now today!! please change up the look or pump fake it ...at least to get the defender in the air. before you throw D ends see that drop and jump straight up. the defense know it is coming.
lane kiffen did a horrible job of attacking ucla's over pursuing defense...mix in a screen or play action???
if he doesn't start looking off his receivers it is going to keep happening.
I look at it more as, McNeal read the play, and CHOSE to try to deflect the ball. Given the way UCLA's D pounded USC today, I don't know why Kiffin is ascribing anything to luck.
ReelBruin is right. Kiffen is full of crap. McNeal read that play, which is the almost the same exact play in the OSU game where Booty pass was TIPPED: Three step drop, fade to the left. The Bruins knew just about exactly every play SC was going to run.
I've defended Kiffen before, but after that chicken$H!+ comment, no more.
FIRE KIFFEN. FIRE KIFFEN NOW!
How can Booty inspire his offense with his lack of emotion? You might as well have a mannequin at quarterback. That is two games lost due to Booty's sidearm delivery. His "oh well" response is pathetic to any USC fan.
Great play by McNeal (SIC?) I'll give him that every time.. also the guy was prepared by probably looking at a lot of film on JDB.
As for JDB, some things never change, never will.
I truly hope Sanchez is given a real chance to win the job next year. I don't believe that he will, but I havehpe I guess
Maybe if we can shake kiffin somehow we might, otherwise, next year will be the same or worse now that there is a blueprint to stopping this stiff
look at the replay. He didn't catch the ball. Biggest coverup in Sports history. I can't believe this isn't everywhere.
That being said. Kiffen needs to get a pink slip. Booty needs to get a heart. And the Bruins - they played a hell of a game. I am glad the rivalry is back! Good job guys!
Dude, you're kidding about not catching the ball, right? Biggest coverup in sports history? You must be completely delusional.
McNeal had both hands wrapped around the ball, even as he fell to the ground. Yes, the ball touched the ground, but it was not a trap.
Biggest coverup in sports history?
You're either kidding or you're an idiot...
Hey Bruin Dorks
If the ball touched the ground it is not considered a catch. He did not have possession until he hit the ground and came up with it. What Carroll or KIffin in the booth should have done was called for a reply instead of just taking a timeout.
Hey SC Dork,
Rey Maualuga aimed with the crown of his helmet. How about that for a non call?
I also thought the interception was questionable enough to challenge. Even if there was only a 5% chance you got to do it or the game is over.
Personally I think they should have ran the ball. It was 3rd and like 5, definately four down territory so 2 plays to get 5 yards, they SHOULD be able to do it. I had a bad feeling that something bad was going to happen and it did.