Answer Tuesday, Part III

Q: What's the scoop on tight end, ANTHONY McCOY? Did he just not pan out, or has nagging injuries, bad attitude, in doghouse, what? We both thought he would be doing better,especially by now.

A: I think he's played fine this season but he simply does not get enough passes thrown at him. Tight ends tend to get typecast in USC's offense. You either block or catch passes. Remember how little blocking was required of Dominique Byrd? Blake Ayles is more of a receiver although he and McCoy can do both. So the jury is still out on McCoy but he is starting, so he might still have a big game this season.

Q: Say we go 8-5, how would that affect recruiting, as say, we go 12-1? Like, would an 8-5 record really hurt recruiting in your opinion, or probably have no effect?
Needless to say, I am really worried after seeing how the Beavers controlled both lines of scrimmage last week; a loss to the Ducks, who were all out to beat Purdue, would make an 8-5 season, or worse, very possible in my opinion. Thank you for the forums.

A: Nothing helps recruiting like a 12-1 season. But sometimes going 8-5 is good because it gives recruits the idea that the team needs help. I would say 8-5 (which will not happen) is not devastating as long as it's a one-year deal.

Q: How have defensive tackle Moala and linebacker Maiava played thus far in the season, in your opinion?

A: Fili Moala's played well but struggled against Oregon State, just like the rest of the line. Kaluka Maiava likewise, but he is really rock solid week in and week out. I continue to tell people there's really been no drop off with him replacing the much-touted Keith Rivers.