September 2007 Archives
USC coach Pete Carroll said he will not move any players to offensive line or cornerback.
``There's no one to move (to the offensive line),'' Carroll said. ``And we have (cornerback) Vincent Joseph and Cary (Harris) might be back this week.''
An MRI revealed offensive guard Chilo Rachal sprained the medial collateral ligament in his knee. Pete Carroll said he did not know how long Rachal would be out. Carroll said center Kris O'Dowd would be probably be out two-to-three weeks, but that was not an official decision.
Carroll said cornerback Shareece Wright is also expected to be out two weeks with a strained hamstring.
Stafon Johnson's foot is in a boot today because he has a sprain or bruise after someone stepped on him on the final play. USC is waiting for results from an MRI.
USC fell from first to fifth in the Sagarin ratings that are supplied for the BCS rankings, which do not consider margin of victory. The other USC (South Carolina) is No. 2 in those same ratings.
Washington coach Ty Willingham made a comment about USC during a halftime radio interview.
"Don't believe the hype."
Former Oregon and current Kentucky coach Rich Brooks told the Seattle Times today the following about the two conferences.
"The SEC is like playing in the Pac-10 with four or five USCs."
Here's this week's Top 25 ballot for the Associated Press.
UPDATED: Because we voted LSU No. 1, the Tigers finished with two more points than USC overall and earned the top spot.
If we voted USC No. 1, the teams would have tied for first.
Washington coach Ty Willingham was asked about USC's 16 penalties.
``If I'm their coach I'm alarmed with that many penalties,'' he said. ``But at the same time I think our guys were playing and forcing some things. We probably could have got, they had 16 penalties? We probably could have got 32 on just holding alone because I think our guys were being aggressive and working and forcing them to do things.''
USC's 16 penalties was not a school record, it just felt like one.
``There might be every penalty in the history of college football called tonight,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said.
Why did John David Booty play perhaps the worst game of his career? Because he could not grip the ball properly.
``When it was about to come out, it slipped off my fingers,'' Booty said. ``It's really weird. It was kind of windy out there but the ball was really slick.
If my memory serves me correctly, Matt Leinart complained after a close win at Arizona State that the heat caused the ball to become slippery and made the grip tougher. Must be a quarterback code of honor thing.
We will write a positive post tonight. Stafon Johnson (123 yards, 14 carries) and Chauncey Washington (106 yards, 21 carries) became the first duo to rush for more than 100 yards since 2005. Reggie Bush gained 260 yards and LenDale White 154 against UCLA.
Chilo Rachal sprained his right knee and tailback C.J. Gable said he sat out to rest his chronically sore groin. Cornerback Shareece Wright pulled a hamstring.
``I hope I can come back next week,'' Wright said, but there was no official word on how long he will be out.
Tailback Stafon Johnson said someone stepped on his foot on his final carry but it was not considered serious while Rachal’s replacement, senior Alatini Malu injured his hamstring.
USC center Kris O’Dowd dislocated his right knee.
``He’s going to be out for awhile,’’ USC coach Pete Carroll said of O’Dowd.
O'Dowd is not eligible to redshirt because he played in the fourth game of the season.
I'll defer to Pete Carroll for a description of a shambolic performance.
``We were so horrid,’’ Carroll said. ``We were hard to watch. We couldn’t do more wrong. We just wanted to get out of our own way.
``It’s a classic game to give away. I feel grateful with all the things that happened. A lot of teams lost. We tried really hard. It was a horrible night. We understand. We survived.’’
It seems obvious Stafon Johnson needs to get more carries, with 105 yards in nine carries, except to those who make the decisions.
One thing did happen off camera in the second quarter. Pete Carroll ran down the sideline and pulled Johnson off the field because the sophomore was gesturing to the crowd following Washington’s second touchdown. He was worried USC might get a penalty.
Center Kris O'Dowd has a sprained knee while guard Chilo Rachal sprained his ankle. But those are preliminary updates.
Chilo Rachal and Kris O'Dowd are both being taken to the locker room after going down in the first quarter.
Hopefully, ABC will show Pete Carroll and Ty Willingham speaking at midfield during warmups because Willingham is actually laughing, something the public doesn't see too often.
Washington just took the field in its throwback uniforms from 1960. The Huskies are wearing gold helmets with no logos, dark bluish-purple jerseys with gold numbers and gold pants with no stripes.
Ah, it feels good to be back in Open Forum Land. So many things to say. I could say I missed answering Mitch Mustain questions, but I won’t. Or that I understand C.J. Gable’s diminished role.
But I do understand today’s Open Forum is brought to you by Roman Meal bread, the official sustenance of Peter Caesar Carroll's injured legions.
Washington coach Ty Willingham practices in pads once a week to avoid injuries. Caesar practices at the same intensity whether in pads or shorts to simulate game intensity every day.
In case you missed our article today, offensive tackle Butch Lewis said he will not make the trip because of a sprained ankle.
If Pete Carroll can wait until Thursday to name Chauncey Washington the starting tailback, then we can wait until now to take questions. Answers on Saturday.
Linebacker Thomas Williams will start at strongside linebacker and if he gets hurt, Keith Rivers might replace him. Clay Matthews said his sprained AC joint in his shoulder is still an issue.
``It doesn't feel as good as I thought it would,'' he said.
Chris Galippo's surgery is Oct. 9 and he will not be allowed to have any contact drills for three months. In a best-case scenario, he returns for spring practice.
As we reported yesterday, Chris Galippo has a herniated disc and nerve problems in his back and requires season-ending surgery.
He is eligible to redshirt.
Pete Carroll said he doesn't mind the lack of a big-play threat in the offense so far. The longest pass play against Washington State was 22 yards.
``We were a little bit more methodical last year (too). I don't care. I love to see our ability to execute. We were on the verge of scoring 60 points (last week).''
Herhsel Dennis admitted going through an array of feelings while getting his first carries of the season last week against Washington State.
``It was almost like being a rookie again,'' Dennis said. ``But after I got my first carry, it felt like I'd been out there forever again.''
Running backs coach Todd McNair said he would erase the fumbles by Joe McKnight, C.J. Gable and Hershel Dennis during Wednesday's practice from his mind.
``I've forgotten it happened,'' McNair said. ``I have to.''
Center Matt Spanos practiced and if he makes it through tomorrow's workout, will be available against Washington.
Linebacker Chris Galippo's back hurts and doctors are trying to determine the severity.
"He has some serious issues," Pete Carroll said. "We'll find out how extensive it is. It got serious for him being able to play this week or next week."
Carroll did not rule out surgery.
UPDATED: Galippo said he will see Dr. Robert Watkins tomorrow for MRI results and will apply for a medical redshirt if necessary.
Doctors refuse to clear Cary Harris and he is out for the Washington game.
"I'm disappointed, they didn't really give me a chance to test it," Harris said.
Ole Miss coach Ed Orgeron has kept just 61 percent (33 of 54) of his first two signing classes and is currently 8-18 in two-plus seasons.
Because Washington quarterback Jake Locker is so mobile, defensive end and strongside linebacker are probably the two most important positions on defense this week. That might be why Keith Rivers practiced at strongside linebacker Tuesday with Brian Cushing out.
Safety Taylor Mays is from Seattle, so we gave him control of one blog post this week.
And Mays wants it known he wants a date with Lauren Conrad, star of Laguna Beach and The Hills. Hey, Matt Leinart dated a Laguna Beach star, so why not?
"I just want to meet her one time," Mays said.
A Pacific-10 Conference coach said last week that Washington quarterback Jake Locker was ``going to be better than Vince Young,''
Linebacker Brian Cushing's ankle injury is more serious than previously announced.
http://www2.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6999418
Interesting Heisman odds were released this week. Michigan quarterback Chad Henne was deleted due to injury. USC tailback C.J. Gable was deleted due to Caesar.
We hear tailback C.J. Gable is scheduled to get some carries against Washington on Saturday (no promises).
By the way, USC coach Pete Carroll said Tuesday he still did not know who would start against the Huskies. Our hunch says Chauncey Washington.
Matt Spanos and Vincent Joseph practiced Tuesday and should be available for the Washington game.
You might have heard that Peter Caesar Carroll parodied Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy's outburst at the outset of today's press conference.
But here's something even better, a real exhange between a reporter and Navy coach Paul Johnson last week. This guy is a real piece of work.
Here's Pete Carroll trying to explain the running backs rotation.
``The first thing is that you have to consider the level of competition that we are playing. We have played some good football teams the past two weeks. Ohio State is a good football team. I think UCLA is a good football team so that’s part of it. We knew that our schedule had only, for the most part, good football teams and it’s surprising for some that Syracuse beat Louisville, but we thought they would be a good football team. We have done some things on our own part that have not helped us, but that’s football.”
Washington coach Ty Willingham on USC.
“Honestly, I don’t know if there is a lot more that can be added to their resume. Obviously, they are a very good football team and at the top of the national polls this year, last year and it seems like almost forever now. They play very well. They play very aggressive. They are well-coached. It is a good football team.”
While Marshall Jones and Christian Tupou got thrown into the game, tailback Marc Tyler still appears on track to redshirt. He will not be making the trip to Washington.
In case you didn't see today's paper, here's what I wrote on Pete Carroll and signal stealing.
New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick was recently fined $500,000 for stealing defensive signals, but it wasn’t the first time the team’s coach drew such an accusation. USC coach Pete Carroll said the Miami Dolphins thought he stole signals when he was the Patriots coach.
The controversy occurred in1997 when the Patriots beat the Jimmy Johnson-coached Miami Dolphins three times in a single season.
``(Linebacker) Todd Collins intercepted (quarterback) Dan Marino for a touchdown in a game and they thought we stole their signals,’’ Carroll said. ``We also had (running back) Keith Byars and he played for them the year before and he remembered their audibles, which means nothing. But they changed their playbooks the next year. I thought it was hilarious.’’
A week after Pete Carroll said he played his best game at USC but only scored a B in the coaches' grades, defensive end Kyle Moore earned an A against Washington State.
If USC played Oregon this week, the Trojans would be five-point favorites. If they played Cal, they would be six-point favorites. If they played UCLA, 20-point favorites and against Notre Dame, a whopping 32-point favorite.
Center Matt Spanos (triceps) took part in Monday's practice and if he is cleared by doctors Tuesday night, could return to full contact this week.
``If he's 100 percent, he's back in it,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said. ``But there's no reason to change anything.''
Tailback C.J. Gable insisted he was not upset with his lack of playing time Monday night, although his demeanor the past few days might suggest otherwise.
"They don't say anything, I just go my own way," Gable said. "I don't want to know why (I'm not playing) as long as we're winning.
"But if we were losing, I'd want to do something to help it. I can deal with it."
Linebacker Brian Cushing (sprained ankle) said he is questionable after getting an MRI and considers himself day-to-day. He said there is a "chance" he will play.
Cushing's participated in less than 25 plays in three games.
Cornerback Cary Harris' MRI showed no serious damage but did show some torn ligaments.
However, he will try and practice with a harness tomorrow and said he wants to play against Washington.
Florida is obviously USC's biggest recruiting rival from a national perspective and last week the Gators beat the Trojans with a commitment from Will Hill, considered one of the top five players in the nation.
So why did Hill spurn USC, especially since he is from New Jersey, where the Trojans enjoyed success in recent years?
We hear the level of communication between Hill and USC was never good and the main reason he never visited.
USC is 62-6 in its past 68 games for the best 60-plus-games' record since Nebraska was 60-3 from 1993-97.
USC is changing John David Booty's passing stats and Patrick Turner's receiving stats from the Washington State game. The second play of the second series, originally ruled a backwards lateral, is being changed to a pass.
That means Booty is now 29 for 36 for 289 yards and Turner has seven receptions for 74 yards.
This ``practice'' of changing stats after the game also occurred last year. The problem is that even if it's legitimate, it reeks of stat padding if you're in Florida or Louisiana (or at a school with a Heisman candidate).
We hear Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen actually wanted to redshirt this season especially following offseason elbow surgery. It was a better alternative than being a sacrificial lamb and taking a beating with a woeful offensive line.
Today's report card is brought to you by Roman Meal, the official bread of Peter Caesar Carroll. And we welcome our latest sponsor, NASA, because in space, no one can hear TrojanTV.
USC coach Pete Carroll on why he played freshman defensive end Christian Tupou against Washington State.
``We’ve got to get him to help us,’’ Carroll said. ``We need to keep moving forward with guys.’’
Pete Carroll said he had not decided who will start at tailback this week.
``I don't know. We'll figure it out during the week.''
Carroll said C.J. Gable, who started the first two games but has one carry in the past six quarters, is not getting chances but USC is trying to give all the tailbacks a chance.
USC coach Pete Carroll on the Washington State rout: ``We've started to balance out. We've figured out what some guys are about and getting guys to where they should be.''
Carroll admitted being concerned about USC's turnover ratio.
``It's not the way I'd like. If I knew (how to end it), I'd stop it,'' he said.
Cornerback Cary Harris underwent an MRI today on his dislocated shoulder. Official results are available tomorrow but Pete Carroll thinks he might only be out two weeks.
Regarding those little popping sounds he felt in his ankle, linebacker Brian Cushing said, ``I think it's something that's going to keep happening until it eventually heals.''
Here's my USC-Washington State game story.
http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6975110
Freshman center Kris O'Dowd did not start the game because he was late to a team meeting on Friday. Jeff Byers played center on the first series and Alatini Malu started at left guard.
Linebacker Brian Cushing reinjured his sprained ankle when he heard a pop during the game. He said he heard the same pop during Tuesday's practice.
He is going to get an MRI to see if his ankle is OK but does not know if he will play against Washington.
``I hope so,'' he said. ``It's tough to say right now.''
Freshman safety Marshall Jones played at the end of the game, because USC coach Pete Carroll wants more depth at safety after he switched Mozique McCurtis from safety to cornerback following the injury to Cary Harris.
``We have one less guy at safety,'' Carroll said.
Harris dislocated his right shoulder and could be out several weeks.
Mark Sanchez just gave all you quarterback junkies something else to talk about all week with an interception.
Judging from Saturday's performance in Lincoln, Neb., USC would have gotten a much better game from Ball State than the mighty Cornhuskers.
Cornerback Cary Harris left the game with a sprained right shoulder. Harris was in street clothes in the second half.
South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier said he voted LSU No. 1 in the coaches poll. He also happens to play the Tigers today.
I can honestly say I voted them No. 1," Spurrier said. "Between (USC), LSU and West Virginia, I think it's a flip of the coin. . . . Since we're playing LSU and they're in the SEC, I voted them No. 1, let's say that."
But don't forget Howard Jones either. Impressive as Pete Carroll's recent record is, let's compare how Howard Jones started out at USC. In Jones' first nine seasons (1925-1933), USC won three national championships and never had more than two blemishes (losses and/or ties) in any one year. The championships came in years four (1928), seven (1931) and eight (1932).
This is the same Howard Jones who must share equal billing on the practice field sign with a donor.
Throughout the Pac-10, coaches believe it's usually better to play Washington State later in the season than early.
Why? Because the Cougars usually do not have great depth and injuries take their toll by November.
Let's see who can predict the correct score. Bonus points for those who can also successfully predict Chelsea-Manchester United, or if you're not an English soccer fan, you can predict dropped passes.
Washington State's defeated USC just eight times, but one of those victories was over Peter Caesar Carroll (2002).
However, the legendary Howard Jones lost three times to the Cougars. Among the former USC coaches who never lost to the Cougars are Elmer Henderson (2 victories), Jess Hill (6 victories), John McKay (8 victories) and Larry Smith (5 victories).
Wide receiver Vidal Hazelton was frustrated by his lack of contribution against Nebraska (one catch) despite participating in nearly 40 plays and spoke to Pete Carroll several times this week about it.
"He's going to play a lot (against Washington State)," Carroll said.
Linebacker Brian Cushing "practiced well," according to Pete Carroll, who also said, "He's going to play for sure."
Senior Chauncey Washington starts against Washington State.
"It gives us a chance to see him, we plan on playing everybody," Pete Carroll said.
Joe McKnight is not the only freshman struggling right now.
``Everson's going through, Ronald's going through it,'' offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said, referring to fellow freshmen Everson Griffen and Ronald Johnson.
Ricky Bell set a USC record for rushing against Washington State, with 347 yards in 51 carries in 1976, in a game played at the Kingdome. But here's what's interesting about that. Bell lost seven yards after the game, when it turned out Washington State gave him seven yards gained by Charles White. That's why he didn't break 350 yards.
Bell also lost three fumbles in that game. Of course, three fumbles in 51 touches is pretty good by Joe McKnight's standards.
What is the Washington State record for longest field goal against USC and who kicked it?
UPDATED: Answer below.
In case you missed today's story in the Daily News, USC officials are confident they will win their hearing on whether to grant former wide receiver Jamere Holland a full release to transfer to Oregon.
USC believes it could set a precedent throughout the Pac-10, where disgruntled athletes to transfer within the conference without getting proper permission to speak to schools beforehard. At least that's what USC thinks.
A day after Pete Carroll said he tried to bring freshman tailback Joe McKnight along too fast, McKnight admitted he is frustrated by his slow start.
``I feel I’ve got a lot of stuff to prove,’’ McKnight said. ``I’m being impatient with myself. The coaches told me to relax.’’
McKnight was told by offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian that it took Reggie Bush five or six games before he made a big impression as a freshman.
``I don’t want to wait that long,’’ McKnight said.
McKnight also blamed himself for his two fumbles this season. He also said his sprained knee is healed.
Because of McKnight’s slow start, USC is trying to simplify his role with less plays as a slotback and more at tailback.
``We’re going to play more of him at running back and less of that fringe stuff,’’ Sarkisian said. ``He’s such a demanding kid. He expects himself to play great.
``I went back and looked at Reggie Bush’s first four games his freshman year and it wasn’t special. There was not a lot going on.’’
Running the ball and defense wins college football games. Here's proof: The top seven opponents' passing performances, including Nebraska's Sam Keller, were all games USC won.
But in the opponents' top 10 rushing performances, USC is 1-8-1 in those games.
Mitch Mustain starred on the scout team with a long touchdown pass to Brandon Carswell among several impressive passes.
"I'm trying to (make an impression)," Mustain said.
Linebacker Brian Cushing did not progress as much as hoped Wednesday.
"He's not 100 percent, I don't know how it will be,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said. "We'll go right up to game time."
With all the blunders on special teams, starting with the coin toss and the little-discussed 10-men on the field snafu on an extra point, it's worth noting USC does not have a special teams coach.
That does not matter against Nebraska but it might in a close game later in the season.
Center Kris O'Dowd is not overwhelmed by the prospect of being a four-year starter at USC.
"My goal was to get some playing time this year, but when Matt (Spanos) went down, it was my turn," O'Dowd said. "Now I'm feeling pretty comfortable starter, it could be (four years)."
Pete Carroll said Nebraska's success passing the ball, at least early, was his fault.
"The reason that happened was I didn't adjust fast enough," he said.
Apparently, he's still the defensive coordinator without the title.
John David Booty, on whether USC has a go-to receiver.
"(David Ausberry) the other day, he made catches," Booty said. "They're all really talented. We were not doing a whole lot with the passing game. We haven't opened it up like last season."
Quarterback John David Booty claimed he did not care he passed for just 350 yards in USC’s first two games. Last year Booty passed for 518 yards after two games and that was with less plays because of rules that made games run faster.
``It doesn’t matter. If we’re winning, I’m tickled to death,’’ Booty said. ``To get invited to New York (for the Heisman Trophy ceremony) would be something special but I’m not basing my career on an award.
``The first game against Idaho, I don’t think I did too good, but I was just out of the gate,’’ Booty said. ``But Nebraska, I did pretty well.’’
Booty said teams must respect the pass and run this season after USC rushed for 313 yards against Nebraska and said last year teams probably focused solely on him, notably against UCLA.
``I’m sure at times I was because defenses were more focused on Dwayne (Jarrett) and Steve (Smith),’’ he said. ``This year we have both (running and passing).’’
The shotgun formation’s been pretty non-existent since true freshman Kris O’Dowd took over at center because he needed time to learn the basics. But O’Dowd said the Trojans practiced the formation Tuesday.
``We did it for the first time,’’ O’Dowd said. ``But I have no idea if it’s part of the game plan.’’
Linebacker Brian Cushing participated in about a third of the plays during Tuesday's practice. If he continues at that pace, he should start against Washington State.
Sedrick Ellis practiced at defensive tackle because Fili Moala bruised his thigh against Nebraska.
Telling comment from Pete Carroll's press conference: "John David (Booty) is doing a great job."
Of course Carroll also said Monday the cornerbacks did a great job against Nebraska.
We pointed out to Pete Carroll that 1-7 record enjoyed by his disciples or cronies.
``Well, the Saints are 0-2 without (wide receivers coach John Morton,'' Carroll joked.
One more Nebraska story. A couple hours before kickoff rumors swirled through the stadium that two USC players and an assistant coach were sent home early.
It turned out not to be true (for once, no drama!) but it illustrated how wrapped up everyone was about that game. And how quickly rumors spread.
The day before, rumors spread USC moved its practice time to avoid the crowds (also false).
It's a different world.
Tailback Joe McKnight's fumbling might be a problem but he's not going to get less chances.
"He's going to keep going out there over and over," running backs coach Todd McNair said.
Following his earlier tryout, the Lakers invited former USC guard Lodrick Stewart to their mini-camp later this month.
Why did Nebraska refuse to move its defense against USC?
http://www.dailynews.com/usc/ci_6923009
Heralded women's basketball recruit Jacki Gemelos will undergo surgery on her knee next week and miss the season. Gemelos, who redshirted last season following a similar knee injury, will miss her first two seasons at USC after being the nation's No. 1 recruit in 2006.
Linebacker Brian Cushing he ran at full speed and felt much better Monday. If he can handle practices this week, he will start against Washington State.
Even USC coach Pete Carroll could not defend the Desmond Reed's fumbled punt return, which Reed actually recovered.
``That was a horrific return,'' Carroll said. ``We weren't even set up to return the kick when he tried to catch it.''
We hear Mater Dei quarterback Matt Barkley was so enthusiastic about USC's victory over Nebraska, he called a Trojan player during the game and left a message to not let up.
USC kicked off twice against Nebraska because after the Huskers won the opening toss, the Trojans mistakenly asked to "kick."
A stunned ref asked the Trojans again and was told, "kick."
So USC kicked off twice.
This is where we mention that Pete Carroll cronies Greg Robinson (Syracuse), Ed Orgeron (Ole Miss) and Lane Kiffin (Raiders) are a combined 1-7 right now.
No wonder Steve Sarkisian did not want to take a coaching position this season.
Here's the grades for the USC-Nebraska game.
USC cornerback Vincent Joseph returned home on the team plane Saturday night even though he was expected to stay in the hospital. USC coach Pete Carroll said Joseph wore a neck brace on the trip home after bruising his larynx.
USC coach Pete Carroll didn't offer any special explanation for C.J. Gable's exclusion from the second half.
``We were just mixing the other guys in,'' Carroll said.
USC coach Pete Carroll said Sunday night he is concerned about Joe McKnight's fumbles but will not play him any less.
``Joe's not ready,'' Carroll said. ``He hasn't been comfortable. He mishandled a catch and got whacked on a play. But I'm not backing off and we'll keep going to him.''
Nebraska quarterback Sam Keller's 389 yards passing was the seventh-most allowed by a USC defense in school history. Keller surpassed UCLA QB John Barnes' 385 yards in 1992 but fell short of Wisconsin QB Ron VanderKelen's 401 in 1963.
Here's the poll, with UCLA dropping out and USC avoiding getting leapfrogged by LSU.
Last night was about as good as it gets for an offensive lineman.
"That's like the best moment for the offensive line," USC tackle Sam Baker said. "You can't make a statement pass blocking."
Tailback C.J. Gable did not play in the second half despite gaining 69 yards in four carries.
"It's always frustrating but you deal with it," Gable said.
USC coach Pete Carroll on the Trojans' 313 yards rushing, which came after he decided during the long break when Vincent Joseph got hurt to pretty much run the ball.
``We didn’t have to throw the ball at all tonight,'' he said. ``There were some colossal holes.''
USC linebacker Clay Matthews did not play much after starting because he broke his left thumb and wore a cast after the game.
``I don’t even know when I did it,’’ Matthews said. ``But it made it hard to cover the tight end and they just told me to sit out.’’
Good thing Nebraska coach Bill Callahan opened up that playbook from a year ago. Very impressive. Start talking.
Vincent Joseph is at a local hospital with a bruised larnyx while Alfred Rowe suffered a concussion.
We found this definition for the disconcerting penalty on Rey Maualuga that set up Nebraska's touchdown.
``Use of disconcerting acts or words prior to the snap to interfere with (opposing player's) signals or movements.''
UPDATED: Here's the official rule: ``No player shall use words or signals that disconcert opponents when they are preparing to put the ball in play. No player may call defensive signals that simulate the sound or cadence of (or otherwise interfere with) offensive starting signals. An official shall sound his whistle immediately.''
Tight end Jimmy Miller did not make the trip because of a sore back. Freshman Rhett Ellison made the trip instead.
Oops, we mean USC, in its black and gold warmups. One player told ESPN they look like ``bumblebees.''
Lincoln is awash in red with people drinking shots in the street. The Nebraska band came into a restaurant and started playing.
Maybe the USC band can start doing that at Chipotle on game days.
Here we are in beautiful Omaha, Neb., preparing for the big game in Lincoln. It turned out the high school where USC practiced got phone calls as early as Monday asking if the Trojans would appear. It's slow around here folks, OK. How slow? Well, the local newspaper had a front page on how the nation's 140th-best basketball player was visiting Nebraska.
Nebraska defensive coordinator Kevin Cosgrove was asked about a possible ankle injury to offensive tackle Lydon Murtha, but declined comment.
Only 300 people showed up this morning at an Omaha hotel to hear Nebraska defensive coordinator Kevin Cosgrove speak. If you placed a Nebraska helmet at an intersection, you would probably cause a traffic jam for miles.
By the way, USC did not realize that the school it held its workout at -- Westside High -- is where Nebraska's top tailback commitment, Collins Okafor, attends school.
USC's quiet walk-through Friday afternoon at Westside High School in Omaha brought a crowd of more than 500 after a local radio station announced where the Trojans practiced.
That forced USC coach Pete Carroll to move the team from the football field to a baseball field that was partially blocked from public view.
``There was a little drama,'' Carroll said. ``We had to hide out a little bit. The word got out. Usually we keep it under wraps. Good for the Nebraska fans.''
Westside is the exclusive high school in Omaha and one USC player left a parting gift by hanging on a goal post, which left it crooked.
Someone at Nike should be fired for the warmups supplied to the team this week. The Trojans look like the Iowa Hawkeyes in the black and gold warmups that have no noticeable red, except for in the miniscule USC logo.
Maybe they were meant to fake out the Nebraska fans in Omaha.
C.J. Gable will not return kickoffs because he starts at tailback. Vincent Joseph will return kickoffs along with Ronald Johnson.
Pete Carroll said either Charles Brown or Drew Radovich will start at right tackle.
Chauncey Washington will play in first quarter but C.J. Gable starts.
Clay Matthews gets his first career start with Brian Cushing (ankle) not 100 percent.
Cushing "might" be able to play, Pete Carroll said.
"We'd like to see him play some to see how he does," Carroll said of Cushing.
We hear at 4 p.m. that Petros Papadakis will annoint a website the best for USC football. TrojanTV?
Hmmm. Could it be the one that dares refer to Peter Caesar Carroll?
Freshman tailback Marc Tyler is going to Nebraska but he's still not 100 percent. He did not finish practice yesterday and was forced to ice his ankle.
Mark Sanchez finally visits Nebraska after the Huskers dropped him as a recruit.
http://www.dailynews.com/usc/ci_6877492
Women's basketball player Jacki Gemelos arrived at USC as the nation's top recruit but sat out last season after tearing knee ligaments during her senior season in high school.
On Tuesday, Gemelos suffered possible torn ligaments again. An MRI was inconclusive but there are fears the injury will sideline her another season.
``We don't know how serious it is yet,'' USC coach Mark Trakh said. ``She's a dominant player . . . when she eventually gets on the court.''
"There's a big difference in just walking and coming out here and running," linebacker Brian Cushing said. "I think it's about 85-90 percent so I have a chance to play."
Clay Matthews starts if Cushing is unable to play.
Linebacker Brian Cushing (sprained ankle) is now considered a "game-time" decision. He was supposed to practice today but was held back from any live practicing.
Cushing said he cannot cut.
Time for questions. How about a week without asking what type of quarterback Mitch Mustain is?
Joe McKnight could play a big role if USC watched Wake Forest play Nebraska. Wake Forest ran 20 reverses and one receiver carried the ball 12 times.
Nebraska also missed 12 open-field tackles in the game.
One player who needs a better performance this week is highly touted defensive end Everson Griffen, who scored a 73 and did not make a tackle against Idaho.
Jamere Holland wants a full scholarship to Oregon.
http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6866991
Because this is his second season-ending injury, cornerback Josh Pinkard can petition for a sixth year of eligibility.
Brian Cushing (ankle) will try to practice tomorrow. Patrick Turner and Chauncey Washington practiced and are proclaimed fit.
Here's Pete Carroll confirming what we wrote last night about Josh Pinkard being out for the season.
``I haven't heard the official word from the doctors but I'm pretty sure he's going to have to get operated on and get some ACL work done.
``Unfortunately, it's just a terrible loss for our guy Josh. He's a terrific football player that just, you know, had to share in all of the frustration you can. Played one game last year. Missed the whole season. Couldn't get to the first game this year. So I feel terrible about that for him.''
BCS computer polls are unpredictable at this time of the year. Take the Massey poll, which ranks USC at No. 115. Duke (0-2) (96), Michigan (0-2) (79), Notre Dame (0-2) (14), and Stanford (0-1) (8) are ahead of the Trojans. Massey's No. 1 team: UCLA.
Here's a link to Massey's rankings, which help determine the national champs.
http://www.mratings.com/rate.php?lg=cf#group2
We usually get some Husker fans here this week, so this might be a place to comment on the game. Specifically why they think this year's outcome will be different?
We noted during the week of the Idaho game the relatively "early'' times the coaches went home.
Of course it probably has nothing to do with playing Nebraska, but activity took place much later Monday night.
Cornerback Josh Pinkard's knee troubles continue.
http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6857510
The Coliseum is considering selling naming rights to the venerable old stadium.
http://www.dailynews.com/news/ci_6847088
We suggest ZeroPetOdor stadium, a product which promises to remove all urine odors.
Tailback Broderick Green is adamant he will not redshirt even though he is out with a stress fracture and will probably be out at least another month.
``No, I'm not going to redshirt,'' Green said.
Matt Spanos is trying to come back this week but is not expected to play. Chauncey Washington said he can play but needs doctors clearance.
Cornerback Josh Pinkard (knee) is out for the Nebraska game.
"There's more there than what we thought," Pete Carroll said.
Pinkard said he had a bone bruise although things seem to be getting murkier.
``We're not a spread-option team,'' USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said regarding the shotgun.
If Nebraska is indeed a legitimate opponent, this will be an interesting week to see how much it really soaks into the game plan.
Last year, Nebraska coach Bill Callahan was criticized for playing not to lose with a conservative game plan.
He has to be more daring this season but quarterback Sam Keller threw two interceptions against Wake Forest and also fumbled a couple times.
We hear ABC is trying to get as many former USC and Nebraska players as possible to attend Saturday's game. Roger Craig is among the Huskers expected to be on the sideline.
This week's talking point in Louisiana is clear as we already did two interviews regarding our top 25 ballot and why we did not leapfrog LSU to No. 1.
LSU gained ground on USC after an impressive victory over Virginia Tech and in a singleminded state, this will be a sore spot all week.
LSU coach Les Miles might be on his last shot to win a national title with the Tigers. Rumors increase he will become Michigan's next coach.
And that opens the door for Pete Carroll-protegee Bo Pelini to ascend from LSU defensive coordinator to head coach.
An AP No. 1-ranked team visited Nebraska was 1978 when top-ranked Oklahoma was upset by the fourth-ranked Huskers.
All summer when people asked about a tough road game on USC's schedule, I kept mentioning Washington. After two games, it looks like an extremely formidable game, as Ty Willingham seems to have turned the program around (just as Charlie Weis implodes without Willingham's players anymore). The same goes for Oregon, although more people expect difficulties in Autzen Stadium and quarterback Dennis Dixon provides the mobility Pete Carroll dislikes facing.
Which team will win more than five games this season? Michigan or Notre Dame? And have you changed your mind about that planned trip to South Bend in October yet?
There were jokes within the football program that Michigan suffered "Trojan hangover" last week. Based on today's debacle, it's more likely "Buckeye hangover."
That Rose Bowl victory is losing value by the week.
Quarterback Mark Sanchez threw again Friday and hit his hand but suffered no problems.
"He was concerned at first but then realized it didn't hurt him,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said.
Todd McNair missed practice to head back east for recruiting. Pete Carroll will attend the Poly-Birmingham game tonight.
Steve Sarkisian will watch one half of the Mater Dei and Orange Lutheran games.
Carroll and Sarkisian will both go to Saturday night's Servite game.
Four freshman -- Marc Tyler, Chris Galippo, Marshall Jones and Malcolm Smith -- all were late to practice and did grass rolls as punishment. Tyler was 40 minutes late.
Joe McKnight did not practice because he was sore. Josh Pinkard will be back Monday or Tuesday.
Marc Tyler's second practice including the punishment of being forced to roll on the grass because he was late to a weightlifting session.
John David Booty and Kris O'Dowd spent this week and next working on the shotgun for the first time.
But don't expect a big influx of shotgun plays. It remains a specific-purpose feature and is not something the coaches seem to like on a frequent basis. If USC starts using, it probably means the offense is struggling.
After saying earlier that Joe McKnight would practice without his knee brace, USC coach Pete Carroll now said he will be weaned off it.
"He didn't want to wear it at all but he has to," Carroll said.
Cornerback Josh Pinkard is waiting for a new brace before he is allowed to make cuts.
Tailback Marc Tyler practiced Wednesday, here's some reaction.
"He really got mixed into some drills and did some good things," Carroll said. "He stumbled around and made some mistakes, as you would think, but he had fun playing football for the first time."
Mike Reardon is now wearing No. 67 as part of his switch to offensive line. Walk-on QB Jon Breuer quit the team.
Some teams are still waiting to start the season but within the coaching community, there is already a group keeping an eye on the Arizona job, convinced Mike Stoops is on the way out with an early stumble against BYU an ominous sign.
We've been asking around about why USC did not dominate Idaho more last Saturday.
One theory is the game was treated like an NFL exhibition game, with the Trojans substituting liberally throughout the game.
One Pac-10 coach only partially bought the theory.
"Some of the big guys were inconsistent too," he said.
In our continous effort to stand up for the fans, we asked Peter C. Carroll if refunds would be available for the Idaho game?
We were told no but unsatisfied fans would have the option of touching Mitch Mustain's helmet at a later date.
Tailback Joe McKnight gets to practice this week without his knee brace that he's worn for a couple weeks and he said limited his mobility.
Of course, there was more behind today's ``accomplishment'' USC sent out regarding Everson Griffen's first start.
http://origin.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6803075
Cornerback Kevin Thomas said he will redshirt this season because his shoulder feels too ``tight'' following offseason surgery.
``I’m just trying to get it better,’’ Thomas said.
Thomas will be a fourth-year junior next year, which means he no longer is in the same class as Cary Harris and Josh Pinkard.
Brian Cushing said he can put pressure on his sprained ankle and will "definitely" play against Nebraska.
Josh Pinkard said he suffered a bone bruise in his knee and will try to practice tomorrow but does not know if he will return for Nebraska.
Patrick Turner just checked out his X-rays with team doctors and said he will be fine for the Nebraska game.
Everson Griffen became the first true freshman to start an opener on the defensive line since Tim Ryan in 1986 against Illinois.
Shaun Cody was the last true freshman to start on the defensive line when he started the Las Vegas Bowl in 2001.
Is everyone still as proud about beating Michigan? And does Wolverines defensive coordinator fear USC or Appalachian State more?
We apologize for the delay but we've been locked in discussions with Peter Caesar Carroll regarding the future of Roman Meal bread. The masses deserve bread and lackluster football!
Now on to the answers!
USC's woeful turnover ratio last season continued even against lowly Idaho, as the Trojans turned it over three times and forced just one turnover.
``We've done just about everything we can think of to work on and improve it,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said. ``It's disappointing.''
On the spotty opening performance against Idaho.
``We slowed down a little bit,'' tight end Fred Davis said. ``I'm glad it's just the first game. People think it's not a good team we played but they end up doing things they don't normally do because they are playing us.''
Pete Carroll said it's too soon to tell if the Trojans will use a three-back rotation against Nebraska if Chauncey Washington is healthy.
Despite all the talk about true freshmen, only six actually played against Idaho: Kris O'Dowd, Everson Griffen, Joe McKnight, Malcolm Smith, Chris Galippo and Ronald Johnson.
Tailback Broderick Green will undergo surgery Tuesday on his stress fracture. USC coach Pete Carroll said he has not decided whether to redshirt Green.
Quarterback Mark Sanchez (fractured thumb) is expected to return to practice sometime this week. Tailback Marc Tyler (fractured ankle) will be allowed some form of drills this week before progressing to full practices.
USC coach Pete Carroll praised wide receiver Vidal Hazelton after watching game films.
``He was a pleasant surprise, he handled all things well, ran good routes and blocked well,'' Carroll said. ``He was a classic Z like Steve Smith or Keary Colbert.''
Just a word regarding the nation's best defense. Idaho's Deonte Jackson finished with 99 yards rushing. Last year only one opponent rushed against USC for 100 yards or more, and that was Clint Polk with exactly 100 in the Oregon State game.
Offensive tackle Sam Baker said the offense did not play with its usual pace against Idaho.
``Our tempo faded and we got lackadaisical,'' Baker said. ``We've always been a good finising team.''
USC coach Pete Carroll said the pre-game buildup surrounding Joe McKnight affected the freshman tailback.
``I thought he got thru it. He seemed tired to me (from the buildup),'' Carroll said.
USC coach Pete Carroll said cornerback Josh Pinkard underwent an MRI and although there was no swelling detected, he could not predict when Pinkard would return. Pinkard will be held out to see how his knee reacts. He left practice early Thursday after injuring his knee.
Did any of you who like to gamble go with the Trojans? Zero points in the fourth quarter sealed your fate.
Linebacker Brian Cushing said he suffered a low-ankle sprain and X-rays were negative. He expects to be back for the Nebraska game.
``I had a sprain like this one last year and it sidelined me for three days,'' Cushing said.
I'll start a post-game discussion with a word about USC's second quarter: Embarassing. At least the first-and-third quarters were better.
Two expected starters -- cornerback Josh Pinkard (knee) and wide receiver Patrick Turner (shoulder) -- did not dress for the game.
USC linebacker Brian Cushing just went to the locker room with a possible left ankle sprain.
After his first home game of his third season at Notre Dame, Charlie Weis is 8-6 at home. Going into his seventh season at USC, Pete Carroll is 34-2 at home.
Weis has now lost five games by 12 points or more at ND. Carroll has lost no games by more than 11 points at USC.
The first person I bumped into outside the Coliseum was former UCLA tailback Wendell Tyler, father of Marc Tyler, in an SC cap!
USC opens the season tonight with more questions than it faced when it opened training camp.
http://www.dailynews.com/sports/ci_6776739
We continually told USC to hire Iain Dowie as soccer coach last year. Well, looks like we gave good advice, even if it was ignored, as Dowie was just named manager of the month.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/teams/c/coventry_city/6970517.stm
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