Answer Monday!

Q: BoscoH said:
Scott, you dropped a suggestion last forum that Baxter should consider transferring. Three part question about his mindset. Do you think anyone in Baxter's camp is mindful of how Tyler handled his own little situation? Does Baxter think he should start and carry the bulk of the load over Tyler? Does Baxter think his finesse style of running meshes with the offense better than Morgan's more physical style right now?

A: I don't think Baxter feels his situation is comparable to Tylerr. Also I don't think he believes he should get the majority of carries, just a chance to play each week. Styles don't really enter the minds of players. They just want to play.

Q: mdjusc said:
Another Baxter question...what is your opinion of Baxter's lack of PT? Based on what you have seen of him thus far, how would you handle the situation? Is Baxter in the doghouse or just overrated as a collegiate football recruit?

A: I think he's in the doghouse. He is sort of stuck now that the season started. If I were him I would look at my options if nothing changes between now and the end of the season.

Q: MMoreno1015 said:
Just curious, would your have answer have been different prior to the completion of the game vs Utah? It was whether or not Kiffin possibly held back on offense vs Minnesota so as not to tip his hand in the upcoming game vs Utah. Also, should we be encouraged because the defense has "stopped" the opposing team on their last drives or should we be discouraged because the games should not have been that close to begin with?

A: I think the defense definitely is better. However, I don't think these three games are necessarily going to be indicative of what happens the rest of the season. The Arizona State game is going to be a good test. It's a road game and they are a decent team, albeit one who lost to Illinois. But it's one of those games USC must win to avoid another average season. If Kiffin's held back, it's because he doesn't trust his players. I don't think that's a valid reason. That mindset lost last year's Notre Dame game.

Q: The Ghost of John McKay said:
So, two games and two post game comments throwing the players under the bus for coach In Over His Head. Can he make it three in a row?

A: He threw an assistant coach under the bus instead.