USC Morning Buzz: A Familiar Face Returns To Big Ten

Mark Jackson, the former USC administrator who was close to Pete Carroll and became a favorite of Pat Haden, has become athletic director at Northwestern. Jackson was the athletic director at Villanova. He was also close to Steve Sarkisian and part of the group that wanted him to replace Lane Kiffin. Jackson left USC right before Sarkisian encountered problems that led to his firing. “He’s … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: A Familiar Face Returns To Big Ten

USC Notes: Depth Chart Coming

Lincoln Riley intends to release a depth chart tomorrow. Can’t wait. It’s likely Riley won’t really go out on a limb on the closest positions, instead going with an “or” between player’s names. In between 2 stints w/@FresnoStateFB, special teams guru John Baxter also had 2 great runs at USC. In between those Trojan tours, 1 impressive year at Michigan, where he helped new coach … Continue reading USC Notes: Depth Chart Coming

USC Morning Buzz: Lincoln Riley Makes Quite A Claim

When Lincoln Riley’s lips are moving, the truth often becomes a casualty. Asked about playing LSU in the season-opener, here is what Riley said: “I like playing a marquee game early. I like playing a good opponent early.” Oh really? Is that why Riley tried to get the LSU game canceled? Because he likes a marquee game early? Who does he think he fooled? How … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Lincoln Riley Makes Quite A Claim

LSU Bringing Army To Las Vegas

LSU is expected to bring at least 30,000 fans to Las Vegas for the game Sunday. Allegiant Stadium seats 65,000, so that’s nearly 50 percent of the stadium. How many USC fans are going? It’s always a mystery because USC hates to ever admit how many tickets it sells. This isn’t the old days, when legendary ticket manager John Morley, who held the position for … Continue reading LSU Bringing Army To Las Vegas

USC Morning Buzz: Beware A Physical Battle

I spoke to an NFL scout who has watched LSU to get an idea of the strengths and weaknesses. “Their quarterback is special. They have some new receivers that are really talented. They have one of the best offensive lines in the country. The best left tackle in the country. “They are weak in the secondary. I think Miller Moss could give them problems. It … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Beware A Physical Battle