QUARTERBACK It says something about Caleb Williams’ talent that he can complete 20 of 31 passes for 322 yards with three TDs and no interceptions and it feels like an ordinary performance. Williams was under pressure and threw some ill-advised passes. That will matter if it happens later in the season. Grade: B RUNNING BACK An NFL scout at Saturday’s game told me MarShawn Lloyd … Continue reading Morning Buzz: USC-Arizona State Report Card

You know what might have been the play of the game last night? When Drew Pyne dropped back to pass; was about to throw; got hit and fumbled. USC had a blown coverage on the play and Elihjah Badger was wide open for about a 50-yard touchdown. Pyne saw him but Solomon Byrd forced the fumble first. It’s a play both sides’ coaching staffs will … Continue reading The Play That Changed The USC-ASU Game

USC dropped three spots in the AP Top 25 poll and is now ranked No. 8 in the nation. The Trojans dropped one spot in the coaches’ poll and are ranked No. 6. Colorado, who plays USC next week, dropped out of both Top 25 polls following its loss to Oregon. In the AP poll, Washington is ranked No. 7 and Oregon No. 9. Continue reading USC Drops Three Spots In AP Poll

So where are all the people who insisted the defense was much better? I hope they all watched that debacle in the desert Saturday night because USC let a 34.5-point underdog play with it for four quarters. I don’t know where to start. I did reference the USC interior offensive linemen twice during the week as a weak spot and they had four penalties. Plus, … Continue reading My Reaction On USC’s “Performance” At ASU

Tim Brando: “I’m a believer now in Alex Grinch’s defense.” Two awful missed tackles on Cameron Skattebo, who goes down sideline for TD. Lincoln Riley arrogance in full display as he eschews the field goal and USC fails to convert on fourth down. USC gets a field goal to expand its lead to 27-21. They were 34.5-point favorites. A timeout after a kick return. Inexcusable. … Continue reading USC-Arizona State Live Blog

Maybe that USC-Colorado game isn’t so interesting after all. Now, what about tonight’s game? Time to pick a score: I’m taking USC, 59-23. I think Arizona State will play better than last week but they have a depleted offensive line and shaky offense. Hard to believe Drew Pyne completed 23 of 26 passes vs. USC last year, but at the time, it seemed like a … Continue reading Pick The USC-Arizona State Score