I got a call from an NFL coach today who wanted to know if it was true USC’s defense allowed six TD passes in last weekend’s scrimmage? Yes, it did. The coach was surprised to hear it because of all comments from the USC coaching staff about the strength of the defense. And the coach was curious how they secondary could get burned so many … Continue reading Even NFL Coaches Find Some Stats Surprising

One of the big takeaways from yesterday’s Coliseum media tour was that 1,000 parking spaces have been eliminated because of construction on the George Lucas Art Museum. But I’m more disappointed in the new Coliseum seats. I had seen samples last year that showed bigger seats or more comfortable looking seats. Or seats with cup holders. But apparently those are the seats for the more … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz

How long has tight end Daniel Imatorbhebhe been injured? He started the final four games last season but missed spring practice because of a “nagging hip injury” according to USC. He was recently medically cleared for some drills but it appears there is no rush to bring him back. “We committed to shutting him down for an extended period of time, and now it’s building … Continue reading USC Quick Thought

For the lucky few who are sitting under the new tower at the Coliseum, you will have new seats with 3 inches more leg room and wider aisles. Everyone else? Another year with the old seats and aisles! Now get back to work! Dr. Magdi El Shahawy, a long-time USC senior associate athletic director, has resigned to take a similar position at the University of … Continue reading USC Afternoon Notes

While the quarterback derby obviously is the primary interest, let’s talk a moment about left tackle. Austin Jackson and Clayton Bradley have shared the position during training camp. Jackson is the heir apparent and enjoyed a strong training camp. But he has not been named the starter. Last season, he and Bradley split time at left tackle when Toa Lobendahn was injured. But really the … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz

Today is the 60th anniversary of the death of former UCLA coach Red Sanders and I’ve been wanting to tell a Sanders story that I recently heard. Back in the 1950’s, newspaper reporters would meet Sanders at Scandia, a landmark restaurant on Sunset Blvd. On some of those days, Sanders would skip practice presumably because he had a bit too much to drink. It was … Continue reading Remembering Red Sanders