Usually, when a coach is on the hot seat, you hear the argument, “we can’t destroy the recruiting class,” as a reason to keep the coach. But USC’s current class, which recently lost its only five-star prospect (Chris Steele), is so unremarkable that little would be risked by making a coaching change. The Trojans’ class is ranked No. 29 by Rivals despite having 15 commitments. … Continue reading If It’s Friday, It’s Time For A USC Notes Column

Did an accidental text message from Neil Callaway’s wife lead to his firing? Here’s the story from Chris Swanson of USC247.com. Meanwhile, if you think USC can keep Clay Helton and have him good assistant coaches next season, consider this: Why would a good assistant coach come if he believes it will be a one-year deal with Helton fired next season? Continue reading USC Coaching Staff Cat Fight?

Before I start, I just want to mention I wrote about a crazy development with the coaching staff here and a huge problem the coaches told me exists next year right here. Now on to the list: 1.) Be honest Can anyone believe Clay Helton? In September, Clay Helton said Tee Martin calls every play. This week, Helton said he called 3-4 plays a game. … Continue reading 10 Things USC Needs To Fix To Beat Oregon State

Let’s look at the big picture for a second. Pat Haden’s legacy at USC is toxic: He kept Lane Kiffin too long; he hired Steve Sarkisian and then hired Clay Helton. At one time, Haden felt like he was vindicated with Helton making up for his other disastrous decisions. But Lynn Swann is athletic director now and he can no longer blame Haden for Helton. … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Lynn Swann Owns This Mess

Clay Helton has had a “No Pads November” tradition as USC coach. But today he said the seniors requested a change. “That’s something our seniors want this time around,” Helton said. “They wanted a sense of urgency.” I guess the players have to step forward when the coach doesn’t have a sense of urgency. Continue reading USC Seniors Ask To Practice In Pads

Lindon Crow was an underappreciated Trojan. He died last week at age 89. Crow played in the 1953 and 1955 Rose Bowls for the Trojans and was also in the 1955 Senior Bowl and College All-Star Game. He was the captain of the 1954 team and a second-round pick by the Chicago Cardinals, where he played from 1955-57. He also played for the New York Giants (1958-60) … Continue reading Remembering Lindon Crow