I spoke to a Pac-12 coach who watched the USC-San Jose State game for his thoughts. “They don’t look like they got a whole better,” he said. “The defense is still missing assignments and playing out of position. We’ll see if they can get more physical when the schedule gets tougher. “You have to be a physical defense to be elite. They aren’t physical yet … Continue reading Morning Buzz: Another Perspective On USC

Nevada named Colorado transfer Brendon Lewis as its starting QB against USC on Saturday. Lewis started against USC in 2021 when it faced the Buffaloes. He completed 10 of 17 passes for 162 yards with one TD and one interception. USC won the game, 37-14. Continue reading Nevada Names Starting Quarterback

This was the best quote from Lincoln Riley on Saturday night and it concerned the defense: “A lot of work to do, and we’re the right people to get it done.” Who is we? Alex Grinch? Riley? Donte Williams? The other defensive coaches? I can’t say any of them are the “right people to get it done.” Riley, a Mike Leach disciple, is the right … Continue reading The Right People To Fix The USC Defense?

It was great USC finally put out a depth chart late Wednesday night but how accurate was it for Saturday’s game? Well, true freshman Zacariah Branch started after being listed No. 3 at one wide receiver position. Jarrett Kingston was listed as the starter at right guard but Gino Quinones started. Bear Alexander and Kyon Barrs were listed at the same position on the depth … Continue reading How Accurate Was That USC Depth Chart?

It’s time for the first report card of the season. QUARTERBACK Caleb Williams continues to be an eraser, who singlehandedly masks the shortcomings of the offensive line, the defense and whatever else USC lacks. The priority for the coaching staff has to be to keep him healthy. Grade: A- RUNNING BACKS If I had to pick a word to describe this group, it would be … Continue reading Morning Buzz: USC-San Jose State Report Card

One good thing from Saturday’s game is the fan reaction. I listened to most of the phone calls on the post-game show and they were critical of the defense and coaching. People have had enough from last season and don’t want to endure more frustration. That’s good because last season there were too many apologists until the final two games of the season. Let’s remember … Continue reading The Honeymoon Is Over For Some Fans