Louisiana rushed for 146 yards, which is more yards against USC than San Jose State and Fresno State combined for in the first two games. Louisiana also finished with 358 total yards and averaged 6.9 yards per play.

That’s a warning for Gary Patterson although some will merely attribute it to the reserves playing. Do those same people point out USC rushed for 84 of its 225 yards in the fourth quarter against Lousiana?

The defense needs to tighten some things before it hits the real part of the schedule.

Also, here’s something to keep in mind: What happens when USC plays a two-dimensional team? One that can pass and run the ball equally well? I suspect Patterson isn’t thrilled at that prospect.

• Florida State fired athletic director Michael Alford today. He was an administrator at USC during the Mike Garrett era.
• This is the line for beer swords at the Coliseum. The wait was 45-60 minutes for some fans. They are obviously a hit because they sold out at multiple locations Saturday night. Did USC order enough? Why did a USC fan tell me they doubled the price of beer swords to $60 while customers waited in line?

USC did not originate the idea of beer swords as the Buffalo Sabres began been selling them in 2025. But they are a hit. As long as no one drinks too much and uses one as a weapon.