USC Will Face Another Mr. November

A coach had to watch the USC-Cal game for scouting purposes and zeroed in on the defense. “They have bad technique and fundamentals,” he said. “But the schemes aren’t working either and they don’t really change so I don’t think you can just say it’s the players’ fault. “All that said, I sort of feel sorry for (Alex) Grinch. He’s going to pay the price … Continue reading USC Will Face Another Mr. November

Morning Buzz: USC-Cal Report Card

QUARTERBACK Caleb Williams made a couple beautiful throws that I’m not sure too many QBs in the nation could make. But I’m starting to get tired of the sidearm throws, which rarely result in any memorable plays. He’s clearly tired of the pressure teams are putting on him too. Grade: B- RUNNING BACKS Some people tried to say the running game was back because MarShawn … Continue reading Morning Buzz: USC-Cal Report Card

Notes: A Model For USC

Iowa interim athletic director Beth Goetz announced offensive coordinator Brian Ferentz will not return next season and will remain through the Hawkeyes’ bowl game. This could actually be a model for USC because I’ve previously said there really isn’t a candidate to replace Alex Grinch on the current USC staff. He could remain through a bowl game. But does anyone suspect Jen Cohen would pull … Continue reading Notes: A Model For USC

USC Morning Buzz: Forget Washington, Here’s What Lincoln Riley Should Be Focused On

Lincoln Riley says he is focused on beating Washington, but let’s be honest, he needs to start making phone calls about who to hire as defensive coordinator for next year. One thing that cannot happen is Riley waiting too long and then losing a candidate to the NFL or another college. That is a possibility when Riley has no real contacts with defensive coaches. Maybe … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Forget Washington, Here’s What Lincoln Riley Should Be Focused On

USC Sunday Buzz: Player Misevaluation

There are so many things I could say about USC. But let’s look at player evaluation for a minute. Ceyair Wright has not played the past two games. Is he hurt? He dressed yesterday. Lincoln Riley said Wright was the most improved defensive player and top cornerback in spring practice and training camp. Then there is Eric Gentry. He had six tackles, an interception, a … Continue reading USC Sunday Buzz: Player Misevaluation