With an early 12:30 p.m. kickoff, I’m starting this sooner than normal. Washington is a 10-point favorite and USC is missing Talanoa Hufanga but you know how Pac-12 games can be. Who do you like? If only Sam Darnold were playing quarterback like the last time USC went to Husky Stadium. Continue reading Pick The USC-Washington Score

What are the odds of this happening? I had lunch with legendary sports columnist/radio host Doug Krikorian on Thursday in Long Beach. Early on, Doug asks, “How did Clay Helton get hired at USC anyway?” I had noticed a USC booster sitting at the table next to us but didn’t let that deter the conversation. Besides, he was sitting with a woman who had her … Continue reading If It’s Friday, It’s Time For A USC Notes Column

Safety Talanoa Hufanga and quarterback Kedon Slovis will not play against Washington after suffering concussions last week. Cornerback Olaijah Griffin (back) will also miss the game. Matt Fink starts at QB, Chase Williams starts at safety and Isaac Taylor-Stuart is back and can start for Griffin. Continue reading Talanoa Hufanga And Kedon Slovis Ruled Out

If you were Clay Helton and the No. 1 thing was making sure USC was at its best, wouldn’t you call Jack Sears and ask him to consider returning to the team? I doubt Sears would be interested but if you are a coach, it seems like the right move to ask. Just to avoid having a walk-on playing if Matt Fink gets hurt. I … Continue reading Should USC Call Jack Sears?

1.) Leave Clay Helton home Seriously, think about it. What does USC miss if Helton takes a game off? No one will burn timeouts in the fourth quarter or after a kickoff. ABC won’t be able to capture that blank look on the sideline. It’s actually good for Helton too because fans can’t blame him if USC loses. Like I say, a mannequin does less … Continue reading Morning Buzz: 10 Things USC Needs To Fix To Beat Washington