Reggie Bush: USC Will ‘Absolutely’ Have Title Reinstated After Heisman Trophy Return
Unique Nicole/Getty Images for Change The Game
Tyler Conway (B/R.com)ย —ย Reggie Bush believes USC’s 2004 national championship is headed back on the record books.
Bush toldย TMZ Sportsย he “absolutely” thinks the Trojans’ title will be reinstated after the former USC running back had his Heisman Trophy reinstated earlier this year. The NCAA stripped USC of itsย national titleย in 2011 amid a probe into impermissible benefits given to Bush during his time at the program.
Those benefits would be considered permissible under current rules, which allow players to make money off their name, image and likeness. The Heisman Trophy Trust returned Bush’s Heisman earlier this year amid the allowance of NIL rules.
Bush was one of the most dynamic running backs in college football history, compiling 3,169 rushing yards and 1,301 receiving yards in three seasons with the Trojans. He compiled 1,740 rushing yards and 478 receiving yards in his 2005 Heisman-winning campaign.
“I’m thinking about my time at USC and just how much of the work we put in produced the results that you saw on the football field, including this Heisman Trophy right here,” Bushย saidย in April. “You can’t get to thisโor a national championshipโby cheating, I promise you.”
The NCAA has not given any indication that they are considering reinstatement of championships that were vacated by violations of past rules.
TrojanDailyBlogย membersย โย ย We always encourage you to add factual information, insight, divergent opinions, or new topics to theย TDBย that donโt necessarily pertain to any particular moderator post or member comment.
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As volunteerTrojan has already pointed out, this is all about lack of respect for USC now. It’s all a part of the collateral damage that comes with such a disappointing season that Lincoln Riley had last year. Flopping all over the place doesn’t come cheap. Nationally, I’ve definitely noticed that some coaches as well as the CFB media in general have noticeably lost some confidence in LR’s USC approach. These new defensive coaches will all really help USC a lot, I believe. Great job by LR in that regard during the last six months. But until USC starts actually beating… Read more ยป
Yep, spot on Bruddah Chris. Dat LSU O was something else. USC 2005 came in 2nd.
Going back to the 70’s da OU and Nebraska Wishbone triple option running attack were another unstopable O.
One team da has stuck on my mind was da 1995 Nebraska NC team. Dat team crushed people. I think dat has to be the most powerful team ever. They manhandle teams as if they were toothpicks.
I believe it is. They just need to recruit and land top players on O and D every year. No down years. I think C.DA Lynn and his A+ AC are doing just dat. So far, the 2025 D class is shaping into top 3 class in nation. The verbal commits must stick though. Cheers
Something I scrolled past when looking at this list. USC is below Kiffy and Sark on the list. Does that mean we were wrong about those coaches or are we only better than Georgia Southern?
Not only below, but WAY below. I don’t think Kiffin should have been fired (especially on the “Tarmac”), but he was a tough case, burdened by immaturity. He was fistfighting with Kennedy Pola, and the NCAA basically made it impossible for him to win. He just didn’t have the numbers to succeed, but USC football was at a very low place and I don’t think any coach could have been successful at USC at that time in terms of a winning record. Losing 30 rides to your direct competition, all the immediate transfers, and being prevented from even going to… Read more ยป
Bruddah Allen, I always liked C.Kiffin when he was da HC at USC. Like you said, he was very immature, played favorites, had a strong ego and bad personality. But, hell he was an offensive genius and Xlent recruiter. Some things I did not like, he hired his Dad as DC. Dat did not go well. Kiff is a different HC at Ole Miss. C.Saban shaped him up; he is no longer a knucklehead. He has Ole Miss in da Top 12 rankings for the last 4 years. Heck he’s doing dat without 5* players. I think if Kiff was at UGA, BAMA, Ohio St, Texas,… Read more ยป
You lost me a few days ago when you wrote about the upcoming season — “I believe USC can end up top a 8 team and make the CFP.” Top eight? Good luck with that Canyon. You’re a brave man. Also, if LR is such an offensive genius, why did he allow Caleb Williams to run absolutely wild last season to both his own detriment and the team’s downfall? Why didn’t LR tell Caleb to stop aiming for too many home run throws when he could have been checking down and hitting open guys to move the chains? Why did LR… Read more ยป
Dis is what I wrote. After thinking things more, if DC.DA Lynn and his AC can produce a D like he had at UCLA last year. And, if QB Miller Moss and company run C.LR O like it should. And, most importantly do not lose key D players to major injuries, heck I believe USC can end up top 8 team and make the CFP. I threw my thought out there. I was not trying to sell an idea, just posting a thought. You do not see dat way, no big deal Brah. It’s about 3 If’s. Last year C.LR… Read more ยป
Everyone knows Caleb slid downward as a QB last year. Despite his superior ability and gifts, he didn’t even make 1st or 2nd team all-Pac-12. Quite a comedown for a Heisman winner with stupendous talent, probably the best ever seen from a USC QB. So contrary to your claim, USC’s problems were not simply on defense, which was obvious to many USC observers. USC’s offense also suffered big from Lincoln Riley’s clear failure to properly coach and restrain Caleb, as he continuously let him run wild and play “hero ball”, contributing to USC’s complete implosion over the last half of… Read more ยป
I do not see things like you and others. Caleb Williams was not da problem last season. CW competed and fought like heck in every game I saw. Hell, CW was 9th in total O = 315 ypg, #2 Bo Nix = 339 ypg, dat’s 24 ypg difference. Before da season C.LR told Caleb not run & limit scrabbling & stay in da pocket (what pocket?). Shoot extending plays with his feet and legs made CW special and got da wins in 2022. D’s could not contain CW. If he ran like 2022 he would have been #2 in total offense and maybe beat… Read more ยป
Hi Canyon, been enjoying your perspective. Not sure we’ve ever defined “genius offensive mind” around here, maybe we should, that’d be a fun debate itself, but I’d have to include Josh Heupel in that list of yours too. His teams have been near the top of offensive stats each year, and he’s done it without a truckload of 5 stars also. His O has made some pretty good defensive minds look silly, Saban included. He hasn’t figured out UGA yet, but his teams are dangerous to everyone they play. They should be fun to watch this year with the young… Read more ยป
Howzit & good morning Bruddah Volunteer Trojan, Happy Father’s Day by the way. I like reading your stuff too. Yes, absolutely C.Heupel should be listed as one of the top offensive minds. So many coaches came from the late C.Mike Leach (Air Raid) football tree, C.Lincoln Riley, C.Kliff Kingsbury, C.Josh Heupel, C.Graham Harrel, C.Art Briles, C.Dave Aranda, C.Sony Dykes, C.Dana Hologen-U.Houston, Sony Cumbie-Lousiana Tech to name a few. Each one used his general FB concepts + tweeked it with their own concepts. I like C.LR system, he runs more vs da other coaches. It’s interesting though, C.Leach and his coaches… Read more ยป
We were so glad to be rid of Helton and get a HC who was getting to the playoffs we didn’t look critical at what we got. Riley coached Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts and Caleb Williams. His prepandemic seasons he went 12-2 three times then 11-3 in 2022. Sounds great but in his first 3 consecutive bowl losses he gave up 54 to Georgia, 45 to Alabama and 63 to LSU. We should have known he is a great QB coach that doesn’t know that defense is 50% of football. Has he finally seen the light? He better… Read more ยป
It will be more than three. One or two of our wideouts will make it. Easton, Gentry, Kamari, Paige, Woody all have a good chance as well. Iโll say we end up in that 2nd or 3rd spot. The national media has no idea how bad Grinch was and how good our young WR group is.
Most of what I’ve read reveals to me the national media thought Grinch was a pile of crap at USC. They all say USC will be clearly better with Lynn in his place.
Yep 2 to 3 WR’s, 1 TE, I RB, QB Miller Moss will make it. USC will have the best O in da Big 10. I think Kamari-S, P.Brown-CB, Muhammad-DE on D will make it as well. My count 3 + 8 = 11 USC players. Cheers.
Sadly, but deservedly, the Trojans will likely receive this level of respect until they prove otherwise on the field. It’s just going to be this way until it isn’t.
Good point. USC’s basically a kicking stool now, at least as viewed by the national media. Who can blame them? USC hasn’t been really good in many years, but I’ll always treasure Sam Darnold’s fantastic 2017 Rose Bowl win over PSU, 52-49. Until the stink of 2023 is removed by actual results on the field vs good teams, CFB fans and the media will continue to wonder when USC will ever be great again — and not just a big brand led by an expensive, shellshocked, uneven coach with a bunch of improved new staff, a lot of potential playmakers… Read more ยป
The “stink of ’23” + losing to Utah twice giving up 43 and 47 points and then 46 to Tulane! Riley flashy offenses soft defenses. If he doesn’t get tough he’s out. Great OC not so great HC.
Elijah Vaikona looks big the way heโs built as a OT but also may be slow and not too agile. He looks like he just goes through the motions in his weekend drills. Hope I am wrong about all this.
Maybe that’s why the 6-8, 345-365 pounder isn’t that highly regarded (only a unanimous 3-star by all services) even though he comes from a good program (Carson Palmer’s school) in a heavily recruited area, and everyone loves huge offensive linemen.
From left: UCLA OL coach Juan Castillo, 2025 OT Elijah Vaikona and UCLA grad asst Ryan Krum at the Redlands mega camp Monday night. (Courtesy of Elijah Vaikona)
Looks a big time project. Heck, all HS OL are basically projects.
Recruiting a HS OL, Ideal size/measureables (IOL 6-3 to 6-4, T 6-5 to 6-7), quickness, Xlent balance and footwork, strong base/stance, flexibility, strength. I would look into HS players dat played basketball and wrestle and players dat made All State and All League… Cheers.
USC hasn’t even offered him yet and we need excellent OLs badly. There must be a reason for that.
USC needs to stop bringing in mediocre talent (regardless of size), especially in the trenches. That’s been a big problem for the Trojans for years now.
Apparently Brennan is a very good recruiter, like father like son. Bet you he learned the recruiting craft from his father, Kiffin, Sark and Ed O while at USC…
I spoke with him a few times after Ed O and Kiffin split from USC. Needless to say, there was a huge drop in his ability to perform anywhere near Ed or Lane’s level, as either an evaluator, organizer, or recruiter. He clearly had a lot to learn. But that was a very long time ago. I’ve never heard he was a good recruiter from anyone before and I always thought his dad’s coattails served him exceptionally well. But that’s the basic rule of thumb for many in CFB and the NFL, so maybe his old “Fredo days” at USC… Read more ยป
It was awhile ago, but I read dat while at Miami and Zona he was responsible for landing some very good players. And, the players said good things about him.
Not sure how good of a coach he is though. But, it seems C.Fisch thinks highly of Brennan. Like I said in an earlier post the coaching fraternity is kinda weird. Cheers.
USC just offered him. Saw a short HL tape, he needs to really work on movement-quickness, agility, footwork and technique. He’s a project, at least 2 solid years of development. Dang, he has size (big boy), he makes C.Henson look small.
Bears’ Caleb Williams Launches 888 Midas Investment Firm Ahead of Rookie NFL Season Julia Stumbaugh (B/R Report) — Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams is launching an investment firm named 888 Midas. The firm will target “investments in private equity, venture capital and real estate,” according to a press release. “I always planned on being both an athlete and a businessman,” Williams said. “As I’ve reached many of my athletic goals and dreams, multiple business opportunities have also surfaced. Athletes are often inundated with and distracted by these opportunities. “To eliminate the potential for distraction, it was important to me… Read more ยป
I hope Caleb is correct in his assessment of his new partners. Many athletes have been fooled and became poor from poor partnerships/associations in bidness ventures.
Caleb is already so well-connected and established. I admire him for sticking his neck out early to take advantage of his incredible spotlight position nationwide.
But as you point out, he needs to be careful. But he sure as heck doesn’t need my advice! ๏ปฟ๐๏ปฟ
Jerry West died this morning at the age of 86. Seems hard to believe the memorable Los Angeles Laker great for so many years and one of the architects of the “Showtime” era is now suddenly gone. USC Annenberg — Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” and “The Logo,” West helped build the NBA in Los Angeles as a 14-time All-Star guard with the Lakers, who he also served as head coach and championship-winning general manager. West, who traded for Kobe Bryant and signed Shaquille O’Neal for the Lakers, is considered perhaps the greatest evaluator of basketball talent in history. An Olympic gold… Read more ยป
Where do you begin talking about a legend like Jerry West? He was beloved by everyone, even his competitors respected him as a friend off the court but feared him on it. I never heard or read anything derogatory about him. I never read his biog West by West, but I will now. We were so lucky to have him be a Laker.
I was out all day today, but heard da bad news on my car radio. What a sad day. May the Great Jerry West, #44, Mr. Clutch RIP. Deep condolences to his wife and family. Yes he had a very successful GM career post playing days. He had a keen eye for talent and was well liked by players and other GM’s. But, for me, Mr. Jerry West will be remembered as a Great basketball player. I began seeing (TV) some of his games in college and I knew he was gonna be a great Pro. In college JW average 29 pts, 16 RB’s,… Read more ยป
My Top 10 Lakers of All Time Jerry West Dr.Jerry Buss-owner Magic Kobe Kareem Eligin Baylor Shaq George Mikan Lebron Wilt Chamerblin I have Jerry West #1 because he had da biggest impact to the lakers overall success as a player and keen leadership and team architect as da GM. #2 Owner Jerry Buss, very good basketball sense, business savy, keen eye for talent and hired the right people and players to run his Laker teams. Lebron and Wilt are listed but they weren’t really true Lakers. Note: Jennie Buss does not have the right… Read more ยป
When Jeanie Buss refused to name Jerry West as one of the top five Lakers of all time, she simply screwed up IMHO. Too bad, because the “NBA Logo” clearly is exactly that, at least in the minds of many of us.
Really? I cannot believe that Jeannie Buss made that kind of bone-headed decision. Not one of the best 5 lakers of all time? Jerry West is one of the TOP FIVE OF THE ENTIRE NBA, imho….
Just a dumb move by Jeanie, who totally has her hands full with the rudderless Lakers. While I’ve always liked her, time has proven she’s no match for her amazing father Jerry, and not a good candidate to lead the Lakers out of these tough doldrums they find themselves in.
Not sure if anyone noticed but the official announcement of Jerry West’s passing was made by the Clippers and not the Lakers. Jerry West wanted nothing to do with the current Laker organization and his family respected that and they contacted the Clippers.
I did notice that and it shows the deep, long-standing division between the Lakers and West. He’s been quoted as saying, at one time at least, that he wished his career hadn’t even been with the Lakers, if I’m not mistaken. It’s a horrible shame, that’s hard to fathom in terms of the animosity between the parties. I think West really felt disrespected and rejected by the Lakers over the years. Jeanie’s long-standing romantic relationship with West antagonist Phil Jackson didn’t help. He was such a wonderful player. While he was personally tormented by not winning enough, he stands out… Read more ยป
Yeah Bruddah John it’s sad dat Jeanie could not put aside her past issues with Jerry and show compassion and epathy at his death. Hah, so she sends a warm public message 1 day later. Little to late for dat PR move.
The passing of Jerry West shows Jeanie’s true character. I did not know much about her until now. I have little respect for her and da Lakers front office.
I think we all know if Jerry Buss was still around, he would not have let West go. But offspring usually become jealous of people who are smarter than them, which surely was the case of Jim Buss and Jeannie didnโt have the humility to ask West to come save the franchise. MHO
Yeah Bruddah Allen, my bad for not listing the flamboyant & colorful Chick Hearns in my Top 10 list. Sports announcer extraordinaire. Chick deserves a Top 10 Lakers acknowledgement. No one has come close replacing da great Chick Hearns game time voice. He made watching the Lakers fun & exciting. CH had so many one of kind phases. He was a genius at improvising & adlibbing during games. Shoot I miss Chick mucho.
Ten college football stars hiding in plain sight entering 2024 season Zachariah Branch (USC) — A member of the 247Sports 2023 Freaks List, Branch is built in the mold of former West Virginia star Tavon Austin (played nine NFL seasons with the Rams, Cowboys, Packers and Jags). He’s on the smaller side (listed at 5-10, 175) but compensates with elite speed (10.3 100m) and game-breaking ability in space. It took Branch one game into his college career last season (nine touches, 232 all-purpose yards, including a 96-yard KO return) to become the most exciting player on the field not named Caleb… Read more ยป
Dan Lanning (12-2 last year) with Colin Cowherd. ORE plays both OHIO ST (at home) and MICH (in Ann Arbor) this season. Lanning — “Winning football starts in the trenches. You have to be big up front and be able to win on the line of scrimmage. “You wanna recruit guys that for sure have a chip on their shoulder. We have a great culture here that our players really embrace. Negatives that might be around the NIL don’t really creep into our place. “Oregon is an innovative place. That’s been the mantra of this program, especially for the last… Read more ยป
USC plays #8 and #9 on Sept. 21 in Ann Arbor and Nov. 30 in L.A.
Former USC coaches Sark (now sober at 50) and Kiffin (more mature at 49) have remained in the big-time with #7 TEXAS and #10 OLE MISS thanks to seven-time NC winner Nick Saban.
I couldn’t believe it either. Per ESPN, which currently has KSU at #17, the Wildcats might be a little high. Bill Snyder lives (KSU ’89-05; ’09-18)! Spring update: With Oklahoma and Texas moving to the SEC, Utah and Kansas State look like the teams to beat in the revamped Big 12. Coach Chris Klieman’s past three teams won at least eight games, and with Avery Johnson taking the reins at quarterback, the Wildcats’ ceiling might be higher than that. Tailback DJ Giddens is back after running for 1,226 yards in 2023; he’ll get some relief from transfer Dylan Edwards, who was Colorado’s leading rusher last season.… Read more ยป
Doh, that’s crazy. No wonder I couldn’t instantly ID the logo. My brain went, PSU? No. Northwestern? No. Hmm….
No way that happens. KSU to win the B12 and be ranked in top 4 on bowl selection day? Nah. The summary mentions losing OK and TX, but no mention of the additions of AZ, AZ St and CO. They might make the playoffs, but not as a top 4.
Seems like a reach to me too, because who expects KSU to be up there with the traditional big boys. But many of these teams probably won’t make the playoffs. Stuff happens.
Who would have thought LR would crash and burn so badly last season with all-everything Caleb Williams pulling the trigger? Oh, I forgot. Defense, special teams, strength and conditioning, motivating players, playing the best players, and clock management matter.
It’s hard to do something like this so early. But, heck I’ll give it a shot. My final 4 in this order: UGA, Ohio St, Oregon, Bama. Championship game: UGA vs Oregon. NC = UGA My top 4 have Ace QB’s, solid run game, A+ D. I really like QB Carson Beck, UGA. I think he wins the Heisman. Wow, Kansas St in final 4? Boise St making the CFP 12 teams, hmm. 2 weeks ago I did my top 12, it has changed. This is my top 12 this week. Georgia Ohio St Oregon Bama Texas Florida St ND… Read more ยป
Bruddah Allen, No, I think USC pulls out a close, high scoring game winning by 6 pts (2 FG’s). Both teams will score in the mid to high 40’s. Both teams have ? D’s, but with DC.DA Lynn and his A+ staff our D will be better than LSI D. LSU will have a very hard time with C.LR O. I predict USC 48, LSU 42 I’m always in with C.LR O. I think QB Miller Moss will shine in da game and da run game will complement the passing game. LSU will not be able to cover our A+ WR’s, I think our… Read more ยป
ESPN’s Mark Schlabach on LSU and USC as of three weeks ago — 14. LSU Tigers Spring update: The Tigers are going to have a new look on offense, as Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels and star receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. have left for the NFL. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier picked up from where he left off in the bowl game, completing 7 of 7 passes for 187 yards with two touchdowns in the spring game. With quarterbacks coach Joe Sloan calling plays, Nussmeier looked more than comfortable. Transfer receivers Zavion Thomas (Mississippi State) and CJ Daniels (Liberty) showed they’re ready to produce this season. LSU coach Brian Kelly brought in former… Read more ยป
After thinking things more, if DC.DA Lynn and his AC can produce a D like he had at UCLA last year. And, QB Miller Moss and company run C.LR O like it should. And, most importantly do not lose key D players to major injuries, heck I believe USC can end up top 8 team and make the CFP.
I just hope the D boys work their ass off in the next 2 1/2 months… Cheers.
Without doing an in-depth analysis on early team predictions, I pretty much go by who has da best talent, top QB, A+ run game, balance O, very good D, A+ coaching & previous year ending rankings. Cheers…
Does the record book of a corrupt institution really matter? I remember watching that game and wondering how Oklahoma was able to get a spot against USC. The fact that some of the best players on that team were professional fizzles points to the fact that it was a team effort, not a one man show. However the killing of USC football was a one man show leading a team of jealous players producing a sham penalty. Looking at revealed emails and fabricated evidence in the process of penalizing USC makes it clear who really cheated in this case. Restoring… Read more ยป
I’d thoroughly welcome the reinstatement of the 2004 NC into the permanent record books as a formal recognition of justice long delayed — but deserved. For me, it would partially remove the obese stain left by the infamous Paul Dee.
I’m not all that confident about Reggie Bush’s prediction, however.
Unique Nicole/Getty Images for Change The Game
“I’m thinking about my time at USC and just how much of the work we put in produced the results that you saw on the football field, including this Heisman Trophy right here,” Bushย saidย in April. “You can’t get to thisโor a national championshipโby cheating, I promise you.”
Lindy’s Pre-Season Top 25
1 GA
2 OHIO ST
3 TEXAS
4 ORE
5 OLE MISS
6 MICH
7 ALA
8 ND
9 MO
10 FSU
11 PSU
12 OKS
13 LSU
14 CLEM
15 TENN
16 UTAH
17 MIA
18 OU
19 A&M
20 KU
21 KSU
22 NCS
23 ARIZ
24 IA ST
25 LIBERTY
26 USC
54 UCLA
61 CAL
75 STAN
I can’t believe we are below Liberty.
As volunteerTrojan has already pointed out, this is all about lack of respect for USC now. It’s all a part of the collateral damage that comes with such a disappointing season that Lincoln Riley had last year. Flopping all over the place doesn’t come cheap. Nationally, I’ve definitely noticed that some coaches as well as the CFB media in general have noticeably lost some confidence in LR’s USC approach. These new defensive coaches will all really help USC a lot, I believe. Great job by LR in that regard during the last six months. But until USC starts actually beating… Read more ยป
Riley has a lot to prove. Lets hope he can hold LSU to under 63 this time!
63, yeesh. Butโฆ.That LSU team was the best college football offense Iโve ever seen.
Yep, spot on Bruddah Chris. Dat LSU O was something else. USC 2005 came in 2nd.
Going back to the 70’s da OU and Nebraska Wishbone triple option running attack were another unstopable O.
One team da has stuck on my mind was da 1995 Nebraska NC team. Dat team crushed people. I think dat has to be the most powerful team ever. They manhandle teams as if they were toothpicks.
https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/ranking-the-top-offenses-in-college-football-since-2000
Let’s hope the new partnership of Riley and Lynn is the winning combo we are looking for.
I believe it is. They just need to recruit and land top players on O and D every year. No down years. I think C.DA Lynn and his A+ AC are doing just dat. So far, the 2025 D class is shaping into top 3 class in nation. The verbal commits must stick though. Cheers
Something I scrolled past when looking at this list. USC is below Kiffy and Sark on the list. Does that mean we were wrong about those coaches or are we only better than Georgia Southern?
Not only below, but WAY below. I don’t think Kiffin should have been fired (especially on the “Tarmac”), but he was a tough case, burdened by immaturity. He was fistfighting with Kennedy Pola, and the NCAA basically made it impossible for him to win. He just didn’t have the numbers to succeed, but USC football was at a very low place and I don’t think any coach could have been successful at USC at that time in terms of a winning record. Losing 30 rides to your direct competition, all the immediate transfers, and being prevented from even going to… Read more ยป
Bruddah Allen, I always liked C.Kiffin when he was da HC at USC. Like you said, he was very immature, played favorites, had a strong ego and bad personality. But, hell he was an offensive genius and Xlent recruiter. Some things I did not like, he hired his Dad as DC. Dat did not go well. Kiff is a different HC at Ole Miss. C.Saban shaped him up; he is no longer a knucklehead. He has Ole Miss in da Top 12 rankings for the last 4 years. Heck he’s doing dat without 5* players. I think if Kiff was at UGA, BAMA, Ohio St, Texas,… Read more ยป
You lost me a few days ago when you wrote about the upcoming season — “I believe USC can end up top a 8 team and make the CFP.” Top eight? Good luck with that Canyon. You’re a brave man. Also, if LR is such an offensive genius, why did he allow Caleb Williams to run absolutely wild last season to both his own detriment and the team’s downfall? Why didn’t LR tell Caleb to stop aiming for too many home run throws when he could have been checking down and hitting open guys to move the chains? Why did LR… Read more ยป
Dis is what I wrote. After thinking things more, if DC.DA Lynn and his AC can produce a D like he had at UCLA last year. And, if QB Miller Moss and company run C.LR O like it should. And, most importantly do not lose key D players to major injuries, heck I believe USC can end up top 8 team and make the CFP. I threw my thought out there. I was not trying to sell an idea, just posting a thought. You do not see dat way, no big deal Brah. It’s about 3 If’s. Last year C.LR… Read more ยป
Everyone knows Caleb slid downward as a QB last year. Despite his superior ability and gifts, he didn’t even make 1st or 2nd team all-Pac-12. Quite a comedown for a Heisman winner with stupendous talent, probably the best ever seen from a USC QB. So contrary to your claim, USC’s problems were not simply on defense, which was obvious to many USC observers. USC’s offense also suffered big from Lincoln Riley’s clear failure to properly coach and restrain Caleb, as he continuously let him run wild and play “hero ball”, contributing to USC’s complete implosion over the last half of… Read more ยป
I do not see things like you and others. Caleb Williams was not da problem last season. CW competed and fought like heck in every game I saw. Hell, CW was 9th in total O = 315 ypg, #2 Bo Nix = 339 ypg, dat’s 24 ypg difference. Before da season C.LR told Caleb not run & limit scrabbling & stay in da pocket (what pocket?). Shoot extending plays with his feet and legs made CW special and got da wins in 2022. D’s could not contain CW. If he ran like 2022 he would have been #2 in total offense and maybe beat… Read more ยป
Hi Canyon, been enjoying your perspective. Not sure we’ve ever defined “genius offensive mind” around here, maybe we should, that’d be a fun debate itself, but I’d have to include Josh Heupel in that list of yours too. His teams have been near the top of offensive stats each year, and he’s done it without a truckload of 5 stars also. His O has made some pretty good defensive minds look silly, Saban included. He hasn’t figured out UGA yet, but his teams are dangerous to everyone they play. They should be fun to watch this year with the young… Read more ยป
Howzit & good morning Bruddah Volunteer Trojan, Happy Father’s Day by the way. I like reading your stuff too. Yes, absolutely C.Heupel should be listed as one of the top offensive minds. So many coaches came from the late C.Mike Leach (Air Raid) football tree, C.Lincoln Riley, C.Kliff Kingsbury, C.Josh Heupel, C.Graham Harrel, C.Art Briles, C.Dave Aranda, C.Sony Dykes, C.Dana Hologen-U.Houston, Sony Cumbie-Lousiana Tech to name a few. Each one used his general FB concepts + tweeked it with their own concepts. I like C.LR system, he runs more vs da other coaches. It’s interesting though, C.Leach and his coaches… Read more ยป
They needed to run through the Saban car wash.
College coaches like to take potshots at Lincoln Riley. Here’s an anonymous Big Ten swipe at LR per Lindy’s.
“Can you name another coach who won three Heisman’s, or had three No. 1 Draft picks and never won a College Football Playoff game?”
LR is 2โ4 in end-of-season bowl games and 0-3 in the College Football Playoff.
We were so glad to be rid of Helton and get a HC who was getting to the playoffs we didn’t look critical at what we got. Riley coached Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts and Caleb Williams. His prepandemic seasons he went 12-2 three times then 11-3 in 2022. Sounds great but in his first 3 consecutive bowl losses he gave up 54 to Georgia, 45 to Alabama and 63 to LSU. We should have known he is a great QB coach that doesn’t know that defense is 50% of football. Has he finally seen the light? He better… Read more ยป
As of right now Darnold is starter for Vikings. I hope he plays lights out.
ME too. Hope he finally finds his pro groove.
Lindy’s All-Big Ten Pre-Season Team
75 total players (1st, 2nd and 3rd team offense and defense)
USC placed only three players among these top 75, each first-teamers:
OL Jonah Monheim, AP Zachariah Branch and DL Bear Alexander
OHIO ST placed 11 players
IOWA — eight
ORE — seven
MICH — six
PSU — six
MINN — five
MICH ST — four
WIS — three
ILL — three
MARYD — three
NEB — three
UW — three
IND — two
RUT — two
UCLA — two
PUR — two
NW — two
It will be more than three. One or two of our wideouts will make it. Easton, Gentry, Kamari, Paige, Woody all have a good chance as well. Iโll say we end up in that 2nd or 3rd spot. The national media has no idea how bad Grinch was and how good our young WR group is.
Most of what I’ve read reveals to me the national media thought Grinch was a pile of crap at USC. They all say USC will be clearly better with Lynn in his place.
Yep 2 to 3 WR’s, 1 TE, I RB, QB Miller Moss will make it. USC will have the best O in da Big 10. I think Kamari-S, P.Brown-CB, Muhammad-DE on D will make it as well. My count 3 + 8 = 11 USC players. Cheers.
Sadly, but deservedly, the Trojans will likely receive this level of respect until they prove otherwise on the field. It’s just going to be this way until it isn’t.
Good point. USC’s basically a kicking stool now, at least as viewed by the national media. Who can blame them? USC hasn’t been really good in many years, but I’ll always treasure Sam Darnold’s fantastic 2017 Rose Bowl win over PSU, 52-49. Until the stink of 2023 is removed by actual results on the field vs good teams, CFB fans and the media will continue to wonder when USC will ever be great again — and not just a big brand led by an expensive, shellshocked, uneven coach with a bunch of improved new staff, a lot of potential playmakers… Read more ยป
I noticed that as well, Allen. ๐ก๐คฌ
The “stink of ’23” + losing to Utah twice giving up 43 and 47 points and then 46 to Tulane! Riley flashy offenses soft defenses. If he doesn’t get tough he’s out. Great OC not so great HC.
The stupendous Cotton Bowl faceplant by Riley was when I first started to think he needed to improve a lot if he ever expected to be great.
Such a bad loss exposed so many of Riley’s flaws. He’s still got a long way to go to earn back the respect many Trojan fans started to wonder about.
That Rose Bowl! I was jumping around the living room, pumping my fists. My wife looked at me with one eyebrow raised and just knew.
Elijah Vaikona looks big the way heโs built as a OT but also may be slow and not too agile. He looks like he just goes through the motions in his weekend drills. Hope I am wrong about all this.
Maybe that’s why the 6-8, 345-365 pounder isn’t that highly regarded (only a unanimous 3-star by all services) even though he comes from a good program (Carson Palmer’s school) in a heavily recruited area, and everyone loves huge offensive linemen.
From left: UCLA OL coach Juan Castillo, 2025 OT Elijah Vaikona and UCLA grad asst Ryan Krum at the Redlands mega camp Monday night. (Courtesy of Elijah Vaikona)
Looks a big time project. Heck, all HS OL are basically projects.
Recruiting a HS OL, Ideal size/measureables (IOL 6-3 to 6-4, T 6-5 to 6-7), quickness, Xlent balance and footwork, strong base/stance, flexibility, strength. I would look into HS players dat played basketball and wrestle and players dat made All State and All League… Cheers.
USC hasn’t even offered him yet and we need excellent OLs badly. There must be a reason for that.
USC needs to stop bringing in mediocre talent (regardless of size), especially in the trenches. That’s been a big problem for the Trojans for years now.
We havenโt offered him, at least as far as I know.
Per 247Sports, Brennan Carroll is recruiting him for UW where he is scheduled to visit on 6/21.
๏ปฟI can’t believe Brennan is in the game as the OC and OL coach at UW, while still hungry Pete is out of the game.
Oh, the irony. Brennan was definitely the “Fredo” of the Pete Carroll dynasty….
Absolutely! I can’t believe Brennan holds such an important position with the Huskies. Makes me question Jedd Fisch’s future prospects.
Apparently Brennan is a very good recruiter, like father like son. Bet you he learned the recruiting craft from his father, Kiffin, Sark and Ed O while at USC…
I spoke with him a few times after Ed O and Kiffin split from USC. Needless to say, there was a huge drop in his ability to perform anywhere near Ed or Lane’s level, as either an evaluator, organizer, or recruiter. He clearly had a lot to learn. But that was a very long time ago. I’ve never heard he was a good recruiter from anyone before and I always thought his dad’s coattails served him exceptionally well. But that’s the basic rule of thumb for many in CFB and the NFL, so maybe his old “Fredo days” at USC… Read more ยป
It was awhile ago, but I read dat while at Miami and Zona he was responsible for landing some very good players. And, the players said good things about him.
Not sure how good of a coach he is though. But, it seems C.Fisch thinks highly of Brennan. Like I said in an earlier post the coaching fraternity is kinda weird. Cheers.
USC just offered him. Saw a short HL tape, he needs to really work on movement-quickness, agility, footwork and technique. He’s a project, at least 2 solid years of development. Dang, he has size (big boy), he makes C.Henson look small.
https://sports.yahoo.com/usc-offers-massive-offensive-line-135837912.html
Bears’ Caleb Williams Launches 888 Midas Investment Firm Ahead of Rookie NFL Season Julia Stumbaugh (B/R Report) — Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams is launching an investment firm named 888 Midas. The firm will target “investments in private equity, venture capital and real estate,” according to a press release. “I always planned on being both an athlete and a businessman,” Williams said. “As I’ve reached many of my athletic goals and dreams, multiple business opportunities have also surfaced. Athletes are often inundated with and distracted by these opportunities. “To eliminate the potential for distraction, it was important to me… Read more ยป
I hope Caleb is correct in his assessment of his new partners. Many athletes have been fooled and became poor from poor partnerships/associations in bidness ventures.
Caleb is already so well-connected and established. I admire him for sticking his neck out early to take advantage of his incredible spotlight position nationwide.
But as you point out, he needs to be careful. But he sure as heck doesn’t need my advice! ๏ปฟ๐๏ปฟ
Jerry West died this morning at the age of 86. Seems hard to believe the memorable Los Angeles Laker great for so many years and one of the architects of the “Showtime” era is now suddenly gone. USC Annenberg — Nicknamed “Mr. Clutch” and “The Logo,” West helped build the NBA in Los Angeles as a 14-time All-Star guard with the Lakers, who he also served as head coach and championship-winning general manager. West, who traded for Kobe Bryant and signed Shaquille O’Neal for the Lakers, is considered perhaps the greatest evaluator of basketball talent in history. An Olympic gold… Read more ยป
Where do you begin talking about a legend like Jerry West? He was beloved by everyone, even his competitors respected him as a friend off the court but feared him on it. I never heard or read anything derogatory about him. I never read his biog West by West, but I will now. We were so lucky to have him be a Laker.
West was always much harder on himself than anyone else could ever possibly be.
Very sad that this true basketball genius ended up on bad terms with the now lost-looking, rudderless Lakers.
๏ปฟHe always seemed like class personified to me in the sporting world. RIP Jerry.
Has to be in top 5 most influential people in basketball history.
I was out all day today, but heard da bad news on my car radio. What a sad day. May the Great Jerry West, #44, Mr. Clutch RIP. Deep condolences to his wife and family. Yes he had a very successful GM career post playing days. He had a keen eye for talent and was well liked by players and other GM’s. But, for me, Mr. Jerry West will be remembered as a Great basketball player. I began seeing (TV) some of his games in college and I knew he was gonna be a great Pro. In college JW average 29 pts, 16 RB’s,… Read more ยป
My Top 10 Lakers of All Time Jerry West Dr.Jerry Buss-owner Magic Kobe Kareem Eligin Baylor Shaq George Mikan Lebron Wilt Chamerblin I have Jerry West #1 because he had da biggest impact to the lakers overall success as a player and keen leadership and team architect as da GM. #2 Owner Jerry Buss, very good basketball sense, business savy, keen eye for talent and hired the right people and players to run his Laker teams. Lebron and Wilt are listed but they weren’t really true Lakers. Note: Jennie Buss does not have the right… Read more ยป
When Jeanie Buss refused to name Jerry West as one of the top five Lakers of all time, she simply screwed up IMHO. Too bad, because the “NBA Logo” clearly is exactly that, at least in the minds of many of us.
Really? I cannot believe that Jeannie Buss made that kind of bone-headed decision. Not one of the best 5 lakers of all time? Jerry West is one of the TOP FIVE OF THE ENTIRE NBA, imho….
Just a dumb move by Jeanie, who totally has her hands full with the rudderless Lakers. While I’ve always liked her, time has proven she’s no match for her amazing father Jerry, and not a good candidate to lead the Lakers out of these tough doldrums they find themselves in.
Not sure if anyone noticed but the official announcement of Jerry West’s passing was made by the Clippers and not the Lakers. Jerry West wanted nothing to do with the current Laker organization and his family respected that and they contacted the Clippers.
I did notice that and it shows the deep, long-standing division between the Lakers and West. He’s been quoted as saying, at one time at least, that he wished his career hadn’t even been with the Lakers, if I’m not mistaken. It’s a horrible shame, that’s hard to fathom in terms of the animosity between the parties. I think West really felt disrespected and rejected by the Lakers over the years. Jeanie’s long-standing romantic relationship with West antagonist Phil Jackson didn’t help. He was such a wonderful player. While he was personally tormented by not winning enough, he stands out… Read more ยป
Yeah Bruddah John it’s sad dat Jeanie could not put aside her past issues with Jerry and show compassion and epathy at his death. Hah, so she sends a warm public message 1 day later. Little to late for dat PR move.
The passing of Jerry West shows Jeanie’s true character. I did not know much about her until now. I have little respect for her and da Lakers front office.
She was in long-time love with Jerry West’s nemesis, Phil Jackson. The heart always wins, at least for a while.
I think we all know if Jerry Buss was still around, he would not have let West go. But offspring usually become jealous of people who are smarter than them, which surely was the case of Jim Buss and Jeannie didnโt have the humility to ask West to come save the franchise. MHO
Yeah Bruddah Allen, my bad for not listing the flamboyant & colorful Chick Hearns in my Top 10 list. Sports announcer extraordinaire. Chick deserves a Top 10 Lakers acknowledgement. No one has come close replacing da great Chick Hearns game time voice. He made watching the Lakers fun & exciting. CH had so many one of kind phases. He was a genius at improvising & adlibbing during games. Shoot I miss Chick mucho.
Remembering da one and only Chickie Hearns.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DWWAwWNl5SM
Ten college football stars hiding in plain sight entering 2024 season Zachariah Branch (USC) — A member of the 247Sports 2023 Freaks List, Branch is built in the mold of former West Virginia star Tavon Austin (played nine NFL seasons with the Rams, Cowboys, Packers and Jags). He’s on the smaller side (listed at 5-10, 175) but compensates with elite speed (10.3 100m) and game-breaking ability in space. It took Branch one game into his college career last season (nine touches, 232 all-purpose yards, including a 96-yard KO return) to become the most exciting player on the field not named Caleb… Read more ยป
Dan Lanning (12-2 last year) with Colin Cowherd. ORE plays both OHIO ST (at home) and MICH (in Ann Arbor) this season. Lanning — “Winning football starts in the trenches. You have to be big up front and be able to win on the line of scrimmage. “You wanna recruit guys that for sure have a chip on their shoulder. We have a great culture here that our players really embrace. Negatives that might be around the NIL don’t really creep into our place. “Oregon is an innovative place. That’s been the mantra of this program, especially for the last… Read more ยป
I get that mind set from a driven coach but no thanks. The best part of my life is my family, wouldnโt trade time with them for any success.
USC plays #8 and #9 on Sept. 21 in Ann Arbor and Nov. 30 in L.A.
Former USC coaches Sark (now sober at 50) and Kiffin (more mature at 49) have remained in the big-time with #7 TEXAS and #10 OLE MISS thanks to seven-time NC winner Nick Saban.
How about we take out 8 and 9, then beat 1 for the Big10 CC! Gotta dream big!
Who is #4? Brain lock can’t match the logo.
Kansas State
I couldn’t believe it either. Per ESPN, which currently has KSU at #17, the Wildcats might be a little high. Bill Snyder lives (KSU ’89-05; ’09-18)! Spring update: With Oklahoma and Texas moving to the SEC, Utah and Kansas State look like the teams to beat in the revamped Big 12. Coach Chris Klieman’s past three teams won at least eight games, and with Avery Johnson taking the reins at quarterback, the Wildcats’ ceiling might be higher than that. Tailback DJ Giddens is back after running for 1,226 yards in 2023; he’ll get some relief from transfer Dylan Edwards, who was Colorado’s leading rusher last season.… Read more ยป
Doh, that’s crazy. No wonder I couldn’t instantly ID the logo. My brain went, PSU? No. Northwestern? No. Hmm….
No way that happens. KSU to win the B12 and be ranked in top 4 on bowl selection day? Nah. The summary mentions losing OK and TX, but no mention of the additions of AZ, AZ St and CO. They might make the playoffs, but not as a top 4.
Seems like a reach to me too, because who expects KSU to be up there with the traditional big boys. But many of these teams probably won’t make the playoffs. Stuff happens.
Who would have thought LR would crash and burn so badly last season with all-everything Caleb Williams pulling the trigger? Oh, I forgot. Defense, special teams, strength and conditioning, motivating players, playing the best players, and clock management matter.
I thought it was Penn St. I can’t see Penn St as #4 with the coach they have.
It’s hard to do something like this so early. But, heck I’ll give it a shot. My final 4 in this order: UGA, Ohio St, Oregon, Bama. Championship game: UGA vs Oregon. NC = UGA My top 4 have Ace QB’s, solid run game, A+ D. I really like QB Carson Beck, UGA. I think he wins the Heisman. Wow, Kansas St in final 4? Boise St making the CFP 12 teams, hmm. 2 weeks ago I did my top 12, it has changed. This is my top 12 this week. Georgia Ohio St Oregon Bama Texas Florida St ND… Read more ยป
Are you predicting LSU beats USC in Vegas? If so, by how much? If not, why?
Bruddah Allen, No, I think USC pulls out a close, high scoring game winning by 6 pts (2 FG’s). Both teams will score in the mid to high 40’s. Both teams have ? D’s, but with DC.DA Lynn and his A+ staff our D will be better than LSI D. LSU will have a very hard time with C.LR O. I predict USC 48, LSU 42 I’m always in with C.LR O. I think QB Miller Moss will shine in da game and da run game will complement the passing game. LSU will not be able to cover our A+ WR’s, I think our… Read more ยป
ESPN’s Mark Schlabach on LSU and USC as of three weeks ago — 14. LSU Tigers Spring update: The Tigers are going to have a new look on offense, as Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels and star receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. have left for the NFL. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier picked up from where he left off in the bowl game, completing 7 of 7 passes for 187 yards with two touchdowns in the spring game. With quarterbacks coach Joe Sloan calling plays, Nussmeier looked more than comfortable. Transfer receivers Zavion Thomas (Mississippi State) and CJ Daniels (Liberty) showed they’re ready to produce this season. LSU coach Brian Kelly brought in former… Read more ยป
Vegas gambling book lines predicts LSU winning a close game.
After thinking things more, if DC.DA Lynn and his AC can produce a D like he had at UCLA last year. And, QB Miller Moss and company run C.LR O like it should. And, most importantly do not lose key D players to major injuries, heck I believe USC can end up top 8 team and make the CFP.
I just hope the D boys work their ass off in the next 2 1/2 months… Cheers.
I sincerely doubt USC has the O-line and D-lines to end up in the playoffs.
One tough injury at our very thin LB position would be brutal too. Not enough talent and depth on this team yet.
I’m sticking with my eight-win reg season prediction.
2025 is another story.
But feel free to Sunshine Pump On! It’s a Trojan tradition!
Without doing an in-depth analysis on early team predictions, I pretty much go by who has da best talent, top QB, A+ run game, balance O, very good D, A+ coaching & previous year ending rankings. Cheers…
Does the record book of a corrupt institution really matter? I remember watching that game and wondering how Oklahoma was able to get a spot against USC. The fact that some of the best players on that team were professional fizzles points to the fact that it was a team effort, not a one man show. However the killing of USC football was a one man show leading a team of jealous players producing a sham penalty. Looking at revealed emails and fabricated evidence in the process of penalizing USC makes it clear who really cheated in this case. Restoring… Read more ยป
I’d thoroughly welcome the reinstatement of the 2004 NC into the permanent record books as a formal recognition of justice long delayed — but deserved. For me, it would partially remove the obese stain left by the infamous Paul Dee.
I’m not all that confident about Reggie Bush’s prediction, however.