USC assistant coach Johnny Nansen is one of 53 coaches who are finalists for the Broyles Award, which goes to college football’s top assistant. Nansen is well-liked and a friendly person so this is not about him. But why is anyone from USC a finalist? The staff’s reputation is finally becoming a well-known problem this season. Nansen coaches the inside linebackers and is USC’s recruiting … Continue reading USC Assistant Johnny Nansen Is Finalist For Broyles Award

Did Jack Sears ever start a game for USC? It seems a little odd that Clay Helton hasn’t even been pushed on the fact he discarded Sears so quickly after the Arizona State game. Faith, Family and Football might be Helton’s motto but he didn’t show much faith in Sears or treat him like family after his debut. That is because Helton has a slavish … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Faith, Family and Football Goes So Far

Wide receiver Michael Pittman (shoulder) is expected to miss the Cal game. Cornerbacks Iman Marshall (ankle) and Greg Johnson (shoulder) did not pracice Tuesday. Marshall wants to play but must be cleared by doctors. Johnson is out. Amon-Ra St. Brown and Devon Williams will replace Pittman. Freshman linebacker Raymond Scott practiced at safety Tuesday. He would be a real emergency option. Continue reading USC Injury Report

QUARTERBACK JT Daniels had two beautiful throws, including one where Michael Pittman dropped it after getting hit hard. But otherwise he had three passes tipped; was slow in the pocket and looked like usually does with long stretches of unmemorable play. But Clay Helton will play him over Jack Sears at all costs. Grade: D+ RUNNING BACKS If Aca’Cedric Ware could play like he did … Continue reading USC-Oregon State Report Card

Now that Clay Helton “fixed” the USC offense last weekend, I’m wondering why the defense gets a free pass? The apologists will immediately claim injuries are the issue. But do they ever watch the schemes? Oregon State exposed the pass defense, which has never covered the middle of the field this season. USC led 21-0 and defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast let Oregon State get back … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Clay Helton’s Blind Spot