I think most of us would agree that only teams that we are going to play this year should have their team preview included in individual threads. All teams already on our schedule have either a sticky or a reference locker thread. But since our best-case scenario for 2005 includes a trip to Pasadena, and a team from nearby LA is the most probable opponent, here's what CFBNews has to say about the Trojans (I think the perfect 40 on offense is unprecedented):
By Pete Fiutak
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So USC loses top assistant coaches Norm Chow and Ed Orgeron. So the all-star, NFL defensive tackles Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson are gone along with linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu. So the schedule would cripple most mortal teams. So USC will have a ten-mile wide bull's-eye on its back all year long and will have to deal with the pressure of this being a national title or bust season. It doesn't matter.
There's no rational explanation for why anyone else can be ranked preseason number one.
Can USC be beaten? Absolutely. Virginia Tech, Stanford, California, Oregon State and UCLA came awfully close to ruining last year's dream season. Will it be beaten? Sure ... if someone can find a way to hang forty on the Trojan D.
All the superstars return on offense behind a line with six starters returning. Injuries won't be much of an issue as the attack has talented, all-star quality backups at every skill position and some decent prospects on the line. The loss of Chow will be the big storyline, but there's no reason to think the offense can't still be the most potent in college football by a large margin if, IF, everyone remains hungry.
Now these guys are rock stars, and it's easy to forget that they're still 18-to-22-year-old kids. 18-to-22-year-old kids are flaky and prone to lapses in concentration. While Matt Leinart is an unflappable leader who'll keep the team grounded, outside distractions and demands in a place like Los Angeles could prove to be a downfall. Unless they fall prey to all the attention and don't focus on the task at hand, they'll be playing in Pasadena in 2006. If they do have problems with the immense weight and pressure, they'll probably by playing in Pasadena in 2006.
QB 11 Matt Leinart, 6-5 225 Sr.
10 John David Booty, 6-3 195 Soph.
7 Rocky Hinds, 6-4 225 RFr.
Mark Sanchez, 6-4 215 Fr.
TB 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
21 LenDale White, 6-2 235 Jr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph. OR
26 Chauncey Washington, 6-1 205 Soph.
27 Michael Coleman, 6-1 225 Fr.
34 Hershel Dennis, 5-11 200 Sr. INJ.
FB 37 David Kirtman, 6-0 225 Sr.
40 Brandon Hancock, 6-1 230 Jr.
41 Jody Adewale, 6-0 215 Soph.
30 Mike Brittingham, 6-1 220 Jr.
47 Sean Kelly, 5-10 195 Soph.
FL 2 Steve Smith, 6-1 195, Jr.
82 Chris McFoy, 6-1 195 Jr.
4 Whitney Lewis, 6-1 225 Soph.
48 Brad Walker, 6-2 200 Soph.
80 John Zilka, 6-4 210 Jr.
SE 8 Dwayne Jarrett, 6-5 195 Soph.
31 William Buchanon, 6-3 190 Sr.
19 Greig Carlson, 5-10 195 Sr.
25 Wil Smith, 6-0 195 Sr.
TE 86 Dominique Byrd, 6-3 260 Sr.
89 Dale Thompson, 6-4 255 Soph. OR
83 Fred Davis, 6-4 215 Soph. OR
87 Nick Vanderboom, 6-4 235 Jr. OR
88 Jimmy Miller, 6-6 250 RFr.
LT 79 Sam Baker, 6-5 290 Soph.
75 Kyle Williams, 6-6 290 Jr.
77 Thomas Herring, 6-6 315 Fr.
LG 53 Jeff Byers, 6-3 275 Soph. OR
60 Drew Radovich, 6-5 290 Soph.
70 Alatini Malu, 6-4 335 Soph.
C 67 Ryan Kalil, 6-4 275 Jr.
69 Matt Spanos, 6-5 285 Soph.
61 Ross Burruel, 6-2 285 Sr.
RG 51 Fred Matua, 6-2 305 Jr.
66 Chilo Rachal, 6-6 310 RFr.
72 John Lanza, 6-3 255 Jr.
RT 74 Winston Justice, 6-6 300 Sr.
71 Tatusi Lutui, 6-6 370 Sr.
2005 Recruiting Class
Star of the Class
Mark Sanchez QB 6-3 215 Mission Viejo (Mission Viejo) Ca.
He was named 2004 Parade All-American Player of the Year, Super Prep All-American Player of the Year, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Student Sports Top 100, Prep Star All-American, Tom Lemming All-American, Scout.com All-American first team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 first team, Gatorade California Player of the Year, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, All-CIF Southern Section, All-CIF Division II Co-Offensive Player of the Year, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Los Angeles Times All-Orange County Back of the Year, Orange County Register All-Orange County and All-South Coast League Co-Offensive MVP as a senior quarterback at Mission Viejo (Calif.) High...He completed 151-of-245 (61.6%) passes for 2,441 yards with 24 TDs and 4 interceptions in 2004 despite sitting out 8 halves because Mission Viejo was winning handily
Instant Impact Players
Thomas Herring OL 6-6 315 Los Angeles (Fremont) Ca.
He originally signed with USC in 2004, but did not qualify for admission...He was named a 2003 Parade All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Insiders.com All-American, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Tom Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, All-L.A. City first team, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Los Angeles Times All-Central City Lineman of the Year selection as a senior two-way tackle and tight end at Fremont High in Los Angeles (Calif.)...
Patrick Turner WR 6-5 215 Nashville (Goodpasture) Tenn.
He was a 2004 Parade All-American, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Student Sports Top 100, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Tom Lemming All-American, Scout.com All-American first team, USA Today All-USA second team, EA Sports All-American second team, Super Prep All-Dixie Offensive Player of the Year and Prep Star All-Southeast selection as a senior wide receiver at Goodpasture High in West Madison (Tenn.)...He had 48 receptions for 800-plus yards and 11 touchdowns in 2004...As a junior, he caught 56 passes for 955 yards (17.1 avg.) with 12 TDs
Rest of the Class
<TABLE id=table12 width=445 align=left border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Walker Ashley</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-5</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>295</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Eden Prairie (Eden Prairie)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Minn.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Charles Brown</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>TE/DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-6</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>245</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Pomona (Diamond Ranch)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Luther Brown</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Lakewood (Lakewood)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Michael Coleman</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>ATH</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>San Bernardino (Arroyo Valley)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Brian Cushing</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-3</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Oradell (Bergen Catholic)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>N.J.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kevin Ellison</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Redondo Beach (Redondo Union)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Will Harris</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>190</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Covina (Charter Oak)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Cary Harris</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>180</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Sherman Oaks (Notre Dame)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Nick Howell</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>OL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-6</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>265</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Fresno (Bullard)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Gabe Long</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DT</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-4</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>280</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Fullerton</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kaluka Maiava</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>5-11</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>210</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Wailuku (Baldwin)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Hi</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Rey Maualuga</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>240</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Eureka (Eureka)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kyle Moore</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-7</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>265</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Warner Robins (Houston County)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ga.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Averell Spicer</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>260</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Rancho Cucamonga </TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kevin Thomas
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>180
</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Oxnard (Rio Mesa) Ca.
</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
By Pete Fiutak
<TABLE height=475 cellSpacing=0 width=170><TBODY><TR><TD width=157 bgColor=#ffffff height=32>
[font=Arial, Helvetica]Head coach: Pete Carroll
5th year: 42-9
Returning O Lettermen: 32
Returning D Lettermen: 26
Returning ST Lettermen: 2
Lettermen Lost: 23[/font]
</TD></TR><CENTER><TR><TD width=157 bgColor=#ffffff height=1><HR></TD></TR></CENTER><TR><TD width=157 bgColor=#ffffff height=158>5th year: 42-9
Returning O Lettermen: 32
Returning D Lettermen: 26
Returning ST Lettermen: 2
Lettermen Lost: 23[/font]
[font=Arial, Helvetica]Ten Best USC Players
1. QB Matt Leinart, Sr.
2. RB Reggie Bush, Jr.
3. RB LenDale White, Jr.
4. SS Darnell Bing, Jr.
5. WR Dwayne Jarrett, Soph.
6. WR Steve Smith, Sr.
7. DE Lawrence Jackson, Soph.
8. P Tom Malone, Sr.
9. OT Sam Baker, Soph.
10. [/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]TE Dominique Byrd, Sr. [/font]
</TD></TR><CENTER><TR><TD bgColor=#ffffff height=18><TABLE id=table11 width=160><TBODY><TR><TD align=left width=146 bgColor=#800000 colSpan=2>1. QB Matt Leinart, Sr.
2. RB Reggie Bush, Jr.
3. RB LenDale White, Jr.
4. SS Darnell Bing, Jr.
5. WR Dwayne Jarrett, Soph.
6. WR Steve Smith, Sr.
7. DE Lawrence Jackson, Soph.
8. P Tom Malone, Sr.
9. OT Sam Baker, Soph.
10. [/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]TE Dominique Byrd, Sr. [/font]
2005 Schedule
</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]9/[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]3[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at Hawaii[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]9/17[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]Arkansas [/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]9/24[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at Oregon[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]10/1[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at Arizona State[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]10/8[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]Arizona[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]10/[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]15[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at Notre Dame [/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]10/[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]22[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at Washington[/font] </TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]1[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]0/29[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]Washington State [/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]11/[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]5[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]Stanford[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]11/12[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]at California[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]11/1[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]9[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]Fresno State[/font]</TD></TR><TR><TD align=left width=27>[font=Arial, Helvetica]12/3[/font]</TD><TD align=left width=119>[font=Arial, Helvetica]UCLA[/font]</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE></TD></TR></CENTER></TBODY></TABLE>
So USC loses top assistant coaches Norm Chow and Ed Orgeron. So the all-star, NFL defensive tackles Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson are gone along with linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu. So the schedule would cripple most mortal teams. So USC will have a ten-mile wide bull's-eye on its back all year long and will have to deal with the pressure of this being a national title or bust season. It doesn't matter.
There's no rational explanation for why anyone else can be ranked preseason number one.
Can USC be beaten? Absolutely. Virginia Tech, Stanford, California, Oregon State and UCLA came awfully close to ruining last year's dream season. Will it be beaten? Sure ... if someone can find a way to hang forty on the Trojan D.
All the superstars return on offense behind a line with six starters returning. Injuries won't be much of an issue as the attack has talented, all-star quality backups at every skill position and some decent prospects on the line. The loss of Chow will be the big storyline, but there's no reason to think the offense can't still be the most potent in college football by a large margin if, IF, everyone remains hungry.
Now these guys are rock stars, and it's easy to forget that they're still 18-to-22-year-old kids. 18-to-22-year-old kids are flaky and prone to lapses in concentration. While Matt Leinart is an unflappable leader who'll keep the team grounded, outside distractions and demands in a place like Los Angeles could prove to be a downfall. Unless they fall prey to all the attention and don't focus on the task at hand, they'll be playing in Pasadena in 2006. If they do have problems with the immense weight and pressure, they'll probably by playing in Pasadena in 2006.
The Schedule: Brutal. Road trips to Oregon, Arizona State, Notre Dame and California leave several opportunities for an upset as all four will have the fire and talent (even Notre Dame) to end the great USC unbeaten ride. Fresno State is a nasty late season showdown, but it's in the Coliseum. Don't expect the Trojans to lose in L.A. and look for them to gain more and more confidence as they win the big road games.
Best Offensive Player: Senior QB Matt Leinart. It's hard to call anyone but the returning Heisman Trophy winner and sure-thing number one pick in the 2006 Draft/would've been number one pick in the 2005 Draft the team's best offensive player, but an argument can be made for the multi-talented Reggie Bush.
Best Defensive Player: Junior SS Darnell Bing. He has all the talent in the world and now has to play like the top pro prospect he is. A shoulder problem limited him a bit last year, but that won't be a problem this season.
Best Defensive Player: Junior SS Darnell Bing. He has all the talent in the world and now has to play like the top pro prospect he is. A shoulder problem limited him a bit last year, but that won't be a problem this season.
Key player to a successful season: LBs Oscar Lua, Ryan Powdrell and Thomas Williams. The defensive tackles will turn out to be fine, so the corner on the run defense is at middle linebacker. Lua, Powdrell and Willams are the prime candidates to take over Lofa Tatupu's spot and someone has to emerge as a steady force right away.
The season will be a success if ... USC wins the national title. It might not seem fair, but anything less will be seen as a failure.
Key game: October 1 at Arizona State. After being embarrassed 45-7 last year, the Sun Devils will be fired up for payback at home with one of the only offenses in America capable of hanging punch for punch with the Trojan machine.
2004 Fun Stats:
- Second half scoring: USC 224 - Opponents 65
- Sacks: USC 50 for 344 yards - Opponents 25 for 176 yards
- Rushing touchdowns: USC 27 - Opponents 5
- Second half scoring: USC 224 - Opponents 65
- Sacks: USC 50 for 344 yards - Opponents 25 for 176 yards
- Rushing touchdowns: USC 27 - Opponents 5
Basically ... Find the weakness. USC has a Heisman winning quarterback returning (Matt Leinart), a Heisman finalist running back (Reggie Bush) and top workhorse in the backfield (LenDale White), one of the nation's best 1-2 receiving punches in Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith, and a line that has six players with starting experience returning. There's only one thing missing: Norm Chow. The star offensive coordinator left for the Tennessee Titans meaning Lane Kiffin and former BYU quarterback Steve Sarkisian will be in a no-win situation. If the offense is the best in the country, everyone will say it's because of the talent. If it slips, the coaches will get the blame. Don't expect any problems with good backups everywhere in case injuries strike.
[font=Arial, Helvetica]Returning Leaders
[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]Passing: Matt Leinart
269-412, 3,322 yds, 33 TD, 6 INT
Rushing: LenDale White
203 carries for 1,103 yds and 15 TDs
Receiving: Dwayne Jarrett
55 catches for 849 yds and 13 TDs[/font]
[/font][font=Arial, Helvetica]Passing: Matt Leinart
269-412, 3,322 yds, 33 TD, 6 INT
Rushing: LenDale White
203 carries for 1,103 yds and 15 TDs
Receiving: Dwayne Jarrett
55 catches for 849 yds and 13 TDs[/font]
Star of the offense: Senior QB Matt Leinart
Player that has to step up and become a star: Coaches Lane Kiffin and Steve Sarkisian
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore WR Whitney Lewis
Best pro prospect: Leinart
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Leinart, 2) RB Reggie Bush, 3) RB LenDale White
Strength of the offense: Everything. Depth, experience, talent
Weakness of the offense: Pass protection, loss of Norm Chow
Player that has to step up and become a star: Coaches Lane Kiffin and Steve Sarkisian
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore WR Whitney Lewis
Best pro prospect: Leinart
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Leinart, 2) RB Reggie Bush, 3) RB LenDale White
Strength of the offense: Everything. Depth, experience, talent
Weakness of the offense: Pass protection, loss of Norm Chow
Quarterbacks
The cupboard is stocked with a who's who of great high school stars who look like NFL prototypes. Obviously Matt Leinart is the man, but many think John David Booty would do just as well in the starting role. Hot-shot recruit Mark Sanchez will likely be redshirted, but don't completely count him out of the race for the number two spot. Essentially, USC has four guys who'd be starting at about 100 other schools.Player to keep an eye on: Mark Sanchez, Fr. ... Quarterback Rating: 10Projected Starter
- Matt Leinart, Sr. - With his decision to return for a senior season rather than become the first pick in the 2005 NFL draft, Leinart has put himself in a position to be considered the greatest college quarterback of all-time. If USC wins another national title, that'll be three championships under his guidance and he'll be all but assured of being at least a Heisman finalist. The 2004 Heisman winner might not be spectacular, but he's a calm, cool leader who doesn't make the big mistake. He is scary accurate when he gets on a roll and has a good enough arm to make all the deep throws. While not a runner, he's not immobile able to throw well on the run.
Top Backups
- John David Booty, Soph. - All the talk in 2003 was about the high school senior phenom who was going to come in and replace Carson Palmer as the next great Trojan quarterback. Injuries and the emergence of Leinart put everything on hold, but he's a more than capable number two with all the tools to keep the offense rolling. The key will be his health breaking a wrist in 2003 and injuring his elbow last year.
- Mark Sanchez, Fr. - The true freshman will give John David Booty a run for his money. One of the nation's top recruits named the high school player of the year, Sanchez is a big pro-style quarterback with a live arm and good athleticism.
- Rocky Hinds, RFr. - The 6-4, 225-pound is one the fastest of the quarterback prospects adding a dimension the other backups don't. Like all the Trojan quarterbacks, he has an NFL arm and showed this spring that he can play with three touchdown passes in the spring game.
The cupboard is stocked with a who's who of great high school stars who look like NFL prototypes. Obviously Matt Leinart is the man, but many think John David Booty would do just as well in the starting role. Hot-shot recruit Mark Sanchez will likely be redshirted, but don't completely count him out of the race for the number two spot. Essentially, USC has four guys who'd be starting at about 100 other schools.Player to keep an eye on: Mark Sanchez, Fr. ... Quarterback Rating: 10Projected Starter
- Matt Leinart, Sr. - With his decision to return for a senior season rather than become the first pick in the 2005 NFL draft, Leinart has put himself in a position to be considered the greatest college quarterback of all-time. If USC wins another national title, that'll be three championships under his guidance and he'll be all but assured of being at least a Heisman finalist. The 2004 Heisman winner might not be spectacular, but he's a calm, cool leader who doesn't make the big mistake. He is scary accurate when he gets on a roll and has a good enough arm to make all the deep throws. While not a runner, he's not immobile able to throw well on the run.
Top Backups
- John David Booty, Soph. - All the talk in 2003 was about the high school senior phenom who was going to come in and replace Carson Palmer as the next great Trojan quarterback. Injuries and the emergence of Leinart put everything on hold, but he's a more than capable number two with all the tools to keep the offense rolling. The key will be his health breaking a wrist in 2003 and injuring his elbow last year.
- Mark Sanchez, Fr. - The true freshman will give John David Booty a run for his money. One of the nation's top recruits named the high school player of the year, Sanchez is a big pro-style quarterback with a live arm and good athleticism.
- Rocky Hinds, RFr. - The 6-4, 225-pound is one the fastest of the quarterback prospects adding a dimension the other backups don't. Like all the Trojan quarterbacks, he has an NFL arm and showed this spring that he can play with three touchdown passes in the spring game.
Running Backs
Not only does USC have a loaded 1-2 punch in Reggie Bush and LenDale White, it has a spare in Desmond Reed and Chauncey Washington. The backfield is so good that it won't even miss Hershel Dennis, who'll miss the season getting over a knee injury. The fullbacks are also talented with the return of Brandon Hancock giving the Trojans yet another do-it-all back.
Player to keep an eye on: Desmond Reed, Soph. ... Running back rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Reggie Bush, Jr. - It's easy to focus on the tremendous speed and quickness, but don't forget about the power. Bush is 6-0 and 200 pounds with a game-changing burst in the open field. The Heisman finalist finished second in rushing with 903 yards and six touchdowns averaging 6.3 yards per carry and was second in receiving with 43 catches for 509 yards and seven scores. He averaged 15.7 yards per punt and kickoff returns.- LenDale White, Jr. - The forgotten star in the high-octane attack, the 6-2, 235-pound White has scored 31 touchdowns in his first two seasons as the workhorse of the rushing attack. He's the power back, but he also mixes in some solid wheels when he gets through the line. He missed spring ball with academic issues and had an ankle problem, but he'll be fine for the start of the season.
- Fullback David Kirtman, Sr. -Kirtman filled in when Brandon Hancock went down for the year getting four starts. He was used more as a receiver and blocker than a runner, but he can do a little of everything well.
Top Backups
- Desmond Reed, Soph. - Consider Reed Reggie Bush-lite. The 5-9, 180-pound sophomore has the same sort of all-around skills and ability as the Heisman finalist, but he does it all a half-click slower. He finished third on the team in rushing with 173 yards and a touchdown averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He's also a good kickoff returner.
- Chauncey Washington, Soph. - Washington was academically ineligible last season and made it a redshirt year. Now the 205-pound power back will serve as the understudy behind LenDale White. Not just big, he can move clocking a 10.5 in the 100 meters.
- Hershel Dennis, Sr. - Dennis rushed for 661 yards in 2003, but off-the-field issues and the emergence of Reggie Bush and LenDale White as the main runners meant a backup role. The speedy senior would've made more of an impact this year if he wasn't sitting out getting over a knee injury suffered in the Orange Bowl.
- Fullback Brandon Hancock, Jr. - The starter in 2003, Hancock missed all of last year with knee and chest problems. He's one of the fastest fullbacks in college football and a great receiver. He's a little bigger than David Kirtman and a bit more physical.
Not only does USC have a loaded 1-2 punch in Reggie Bush and LenDale White, it has a spare in Desmond Reed and Chauncey Washington. The backfield is so good that it won't even miss Hershel Dennis, who'll miss the season getting over a knee injury. The fullbacks are also talented with the return of Brandon Hancock giving the Trojans yet another do-it-all back.
Player to keep an eye on: Desmond Reed, Soph. ... Running back rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Reggie Bush, Jr. - It's easy to focus on the tremendous speed and quickness, but don't forget about the power. Bush is 6-0 and 200 pounds with a game-changing burst in the open field. The Heisman finalist finished second in rushing with 903 yards and six touchdowns averaging 6.3 yards per carry and was second in receiving with 43 catches for 509 yards and seven scores. He averaged 15.7 yards per punt and kickoff returns.- LenDale White, Jr. - The forgotten star in the high-octane attack, the 6-2, 235-pound White has scored 31 touchdowns in his first two seasons as the workhorse of the rushing attack. He's the power back, but he also mixes in some solid wheels when he gets through the line. He missed spring ball with academic issues and had an ankle problem, but he'll be fine for the start of the season.
- Fullback David Kirtman, Sr. -Kirtman filled in when Brandon Hancock went down for the year getting four starts. He was used more as a receiver and blocker than a runner, but he can do a little of everything well.
Top Backups
- Desmond Reed, Soph. - Consider Reed Reggie Bush-lite. The 5-9, 180-pound sophomore has the same sort of all-around skills and ability as the Heisman finalist, but he does it all a half-click slower. He finished third on the team in rushing with 173 yards and a touchdown averaging 5.6 yards per carry. He's also a good kickoff returner.
- Chauncey Washington, Soph. - Washington was academically ineligible last season and made it a redshirt year. Now the 205-pound power back will serve as the understudy behind LenDale White. Not just big, he can move clocking a 10.5 in the 100 meters.
- Hershel Dennis, Sr. - Dennis rushed for 661 yards in 2003, but off-the-field issues and the emergence of Reggie Bush and LenDale White as the main runners meant a backup role. The speedy senior would've made more of an impact this year if he wasn't sitting out getting over a knee injury suffered in the Orange Bowl.
- Fullback Brandon Hancock, Jr. - The starter in 2003, Hancock missed all of last year with knee and chest problems. He's one of the fastest fullbacks in college football and a great receiver. He's a little bigger than David Kirtman and a bit more physical.
Receivers
While the receiving corps isn't as talented as the backfield, it's still tremendous with Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith as good as any two receivers in America. The key will be for more backups to emerge with Whitney Lewis finally getting a chance to show what he can do after missing his first two seasons for various reasons. The tight ends are skills led by Dominique Byrd and his all-around talents.
Player to keep an eye on: Whitney Lewis, Soph. ... Receiver rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Dwayne Jarrett, Soph. - Jarrett might not have been the same receiver Mike Williams was as a freshman, but he wasn't far off leading the team with 55 catches for 849 yards and 13 touchdowns. He's a physical 6-5 target with great deep speed and excellent hands. He won't have to be the be-all-end-all receiver with Steve Smith back, so he can concentrate on being even more of a deep threat.
- Steve Smith, Jr. - Smith missed half of last year recovering from a broken leg and still finished with 42 catches for 660 yards and six touchdowns. He packs a hack of a punch averaging 15.7 yards per catch and proved in the Orange Bowl that he has the hands to make amazing grabs.
- Tight end Dominique Byrd, Sr. - Byrd is a like a big, 260-pound wide receiver. He'll be recovering from the broken jaw suffered from a shot delivered by Smith in a spat over a video game, but he'll be back and ready to role this fall. He's a good blocker, but his talents are as a pass catcher averaging 10.4 yards per grab making 37 catches for 384 yards with three touchdowns.
Top Backups
- Chris McFoy, Jr. - McFoy has been a fill-in when the star receivers couldn't go. First he started for Dwayne Jarrett and then took over when Steve Smith got hurt. He is a great third or fourth receiver with reliable hands with 23 career catches for 295 yards.
- Whitney Lewis, Soph. - Last season was going to be a breakout campaign for Lewis, but he had troubles with the books and was ineligible. He's 6-1, 225 pounds and very, very fast. After spending time early in his career as a running back and fullback, look for him to quickly become the team's number three receiver.
- William Buchanon, Sr. - A cornerback his first two seasons making 22 tackles, the 6-3 senior turned into a backup receiver catching four passes for 15 yards. Now he'll be the reserve behind Dwayne Jarrett at split end after being one of the stars of spring ball looking like a true receiver rather than a defensive back.
- Patrick Turner, Fr. - Potentially the next, great USC freshman receiver, the 6-5, 220-pound Turner has decent speed and is expected to push for time right away.
- Tight end Fred Davis, Soph. - Davis, Nick Vanderboom and Dale Thompson will all battle for the number two tight end job behind Dominique Byrd. The Trojans like to use two tight ends, so this is a valuable gig. Davis was a top receiver recruit who'll be a steady pass catching tight end, but he has to become a physical blocker at only 6-4 and 215 pounds.
While the receiving corps isn't as talented as the backfield, it's still tremendous with Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith as good as any two receivers in America. The key will be for more backups to emerge with Whitney Lewis finally getting a chance to show what he can do after missing his first two seasons for various reasons. The tight ends are skills led by Dominique Byrd and his all-around talents.
Player to keep an eye on: Whitney Lewis, Soph. ... Receiver rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Dwayne Jarrett, Soph. - Jarrett might not have been the same receiver Mike Williams was as a freshman, but he wasn't far off leading the team with 55 catches for 849 yards and 13 touchdowns. He's a physical 6-5 target with great deep speed and excellent hands. He won't have to be the be-all-end-all receiver with Steve Smith back, so he can concentrate on being even more of a deep threat.
- Steve Smith, Jr. - Smith missed half of last year recovering from a broken leg and still finished with 42 catches for 660 yards and six touchdowns. He packs a hack of a punch averaging 15.7 yards per catch and proved in the Orange Bowl that he has the hands to make amazing grabs.
- Tight end Dominique Byrd, Sr. - Byrd is a like a big, 260-pound wide receiver. He'll be recovering from the broken jaw suffered from a shot delivered by Smith in a spat over a video game, but he'll be back and ready to role this fall. He's a good blocker, but his talents are as a pass catcher averaging 10.4 yards per grab making 37 catches for 384 yards with three touchdowns.
Top Backups
- Chris McFoy, Jr. - McFoy has been a fill-in when the star receivers couldn't go. First he started for Dwayne Jarrett and then took over when Steve Smith got hurt. He is a great third or fourth receiver with reliable hands with 23 career catches for 295 yards.
- Whitney Lewis, Soph. - Last season was going to be a breakout campaign for Lewis, but he had troubles with the books and was ineligible. He's 6-1, 225 pounds and very, very fast. After spending time early in his career as a running back and fullback, look for him to quickly become the team's number three receiver.
- William Buchanon, Sr. - A cornerback his first two seasons making 22 tackles, the 6-3 senior turned into a backup receiver catching four passes for 15 yards. Now he'll be the reserve behind Dwayne Jarrett at split end after being one of the stars of spring ball looking like a true receiver rather than a defensive back.
- Patrick Turner, Fr. - Potentially the next, great USC freshman receiver, the 6-5, 220-pound Turner has decent speed and is expected to push for time right away.
- Tight end Fred Davis, Soph. - Davis, Nick Vanderboom and Dale Thompson will all battle for the number two tight end job behind Dominique Byrd. The Trojans like to use two tight ends, so this is a valuable gig. Davis was a top receiver recruit who'll be a steady pass catching tight end, but he has to become a physical blocker at only 6-4 and 215 pounds.
Offensive Line
Even with the loss of Dallas Baker, this is going to be among the nation's best offensive lines with Winston Justice back in the mix potentially allowing Tatusi Lutui to move to left guard. There will be five All-Pac 10 caliber starters up front and at least two All-Americans. As a unit, it would like to cut down on the 25 sacks it allowed last season and would like to be a bit more consistent in the first quarter. There are several good looking young linemen looking to work into the mix as the season goes on.
Player to keep an eye on: Kyle Williams, Jr. ... Offensive line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Tackle Sam Baker, Soph. - One of the best freshman linemen in America last year, the 290-pound Baker moved from guard to tackle and, for the most part, kept Matt Leinart clean. He should be even better now that he has a year of experience and should grow into a more dominant run blocker.
- Guard Jeff Byers, Soph. - While Byers didn't have the freshman season Sam Baker did, he became a steady starter after spending the first part of his season backing up John Drake. He'll push for the opening day gig at left guard and, at the very least, will rotate with Drew Radovich or backup Tatusi Lutui.
- Center Ryan Kalil, Jr. - A reliable starter last year, the 275-pound Kalil is a tough, athletic blocker in the middle and will be in the hunt for All-Pac 10 honors. He's a top pass blocker with a fiery streak.
- Guard Fred Matua, Jr. - The 305-pound junior is one of the team's most powerful, physical run blockers. He was never quite 100% healthy last year, but still had a good season. Now he should be on the short list for All-America guards starting again on the right side.
- Tackle Winston Justice, Sr. - Call this a projection as the depth chart will likely have Tatusi Lutui as the starter on the right side. Justice missed all of last season with off-the-field issues after starting the previous two years. He's a dominating 6-6 and 300 pounds with more fire after all the drama.
Even with the loss of Dallas Baker, this is going to be among the nation's best offensive lines with Winston Justice back in the mix potentially allowing Tatusi Lutui to move to left guard. There will be five All-Pac 10 caliber starters up front and at least two All-Americans. As a unit, it would like to cut down on the 25 sacks it allowed last season and would like to be a bit more consistent in the first quarter. There are several good looking young linemen looking to work into the mix as the season goes on.
Player to keep an eye on: Kyle Williams, Jr. ... Offensive line rating: 10
Projected Starters
- Tackle Sam Baker, Soph. - One of the best freshman linemen in America last year, the 290-pound Baker moved from guard to tackle and, for the most part, kept Matt Leinart clean. He should be even better now that he has a year of experience and should grow into a more dominant run blocker.
- Guard Jeff Byers, Soph. - While Byers didn't have the freshman season Sam Baker did, he became a steady starter after spending the first part of his season backing up John Drake. He'll push for the opening day gig at left guard and, at the very least, will rotate with Drew Radovich or backup Tatusi Lutui.
- Center Ryan Kalil, Jr. - A reliable starter last year, the 275-pound Kalil is a tough, athletic blocker in the middle and will be in the hunt for All-Pac 10 honors. He's a top pass blocker with a fiery streak.
- Guard Fred Matua, Jr. - The 305-pound junior is one of the team's most powerful, physical run blockers. He was never quite 100% healthy last year, but still had a good season. Now he should be on the short list for All-America guards starting again on the right side.
- Tackle Winston Justice, Sr. - Call this a projection as the depth chart will likely have Tatusi Lutui as the starter on the right side. Justice missed all of last season with off-the-field issues after starting the previous two years. He's a dominating 6-6 and 300 pounds with more fire after all the drama.
Top Backups
- T Tatusi Lutui, Sr. - Last year's starter at right tackle might be the starter at left guard when all is said and done. The 6-6, 370-pound monster could would be a better fit with his size and power, but he has the feet and pass blocking ability to play tackle again.
- G Drew Radovich, Soph. - A decent backup last year, the 290-pound sophomore will work at both tackle and guard starting out pushing Jeff Byars for time on the left side.
- T Kyle Williams, Jr. - An athletic reserve, the 6-6, 290-pound junior has seen time on special teams and on offense in mopup time. He'll play behind Sam Baker on the left side.
- T Tatusi Lutui, Sr. - Last year's starter at right tackle might be the starter at left guard when all is said and done. The 6-6, 370-pound monster could would be a better fit with his size and power, but he has the feet and pass blocking ability to play tackle again.
- G Drew Radovich, Soph. - A decent backup last year, the 290-pound sophomore will work at both tackle and guard starting out pushing Jeff Byars for time on the left side.
- T Kyle Williams, Jr. - An athletic reserve, the 6-6, 290-pound junior has seen time on special teams and on offense in mopup time. He'll play behind Sam Baker on the left side.
Basically ... It won't be the killer it was last year when it led the nation in run defense and finished sixth overall, but it won't be bad. The loss of star tackles Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson, along with linebackers Lofa Tatupa and Matt Grootegoed, leaves gaping holes to fill for the run defense. Linebacker Dallas Sartz and ends Frostee Rucker and Lawrence Jackson must play bigger roles. The secondary will be the strength led by star safety Darnell Bing, and there won't be a problem with the front seven getting to the quarterback. [font=Arial, Helvetica]Returning Leaders
[font=Arial, Helvetica]Tackles: Darnell Bing, 63
Sacks: Lawrence Jackson, 6
Interceptions: Darnell Bing, Terrell Thomas, Eric Wright, 2[/font]
Sacks: Lawrence Jackson, 6
Interceptions: Darnell Bing, Terrell Thomas, Eric Wright, 2[/font]
Star of the defense: Junior SS Darnell Bing
Player that has to step up and become a star: MLBs Oscar Lua, Ryan Powdrell and/or Thomas Williams
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore DT Sedrick Ellis
Best pro prospect: Bing
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Bing, 2) LB Dallas Sartz, 3) DE Lawrence Jackson
Strength of the defense: Secondary, defensive end
Weakness of the defense: Backup corners, middle linebacker
Player that has to step up and become a star: MLBs Oscar Lua, Ryan Powdrell and/or Thomas Williams
Unsung star on the rise: Sophomore DT Sedrick Ellis
Best pro prospect: Bing
Top three all-star candidates: 1) Bing, 2) LB Dallas Sartz, 3) DE Lawrence Jackson
Strength of the defense: Secondary, defensive end
Weakness of the defense: Backup corners, middle linebacker
Defensive Line
The loss of All-America tackles Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody means there's some rebuilding to be done. Manuel Wright would be solid as a full-time tackle if he didn't have a problem with his grades. He'll likely be off to the NFL supplemental draft meaning Sedrick Ellis and Travis Draper need to come up with big seasons for the Trojans to even have a though of having the nation's number one run defense again. The biggest loss is fiery line coach Ed Orgeron to Ole Miss, but former Green Bay Packer line coach Jethro Franklin should do a good job with this raw, but talented crew.
Player to keep an eye on: DT Sedrick Ellis, Soph. ... Defensive Line rating: 8
Projected Starters
- DE Lawrence Jackson, Soph. - 32 tackles, 6 sacks, 11 tackles for loss ... The 6-5, 270-pound Jackson isn't quite as flashy as past Trojan stars, but he's an effective pass rusher who started almost every game as a freshman. He could be a quick tackle with the potential to have Shaun Cody-like versatility.
- NT Sedrick Ellis, Soph. - 2 tackles ... It'll be up to Ellis to be one of the new stars in the middle as the main replacement for Mike Patterson. He had problems early in his career with an ankle injury, but now appears ready to handle the workload as a quick starter on the nose. The coaching staff raves about him as a rising playmaker.
- DT LaJuan Ramsey, Sr. - 2 tackles ... The 285-pound senior will have to be a factor in the tackle mix playing behind right away if, as expected, Manuel Wright isn't academically eligible. Ramsey served last year as a backup behind Mike Patterson. He can play end if needed, but is better suited, and more needed, for the inside.
- DE Frostee Rucker, Sr. - 29 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss ... Rucker is the most experienced returning lineman with 17 stars and 55 career tackles. Now he'll have to become more of a pass rusher after the injured toe that bothered him all of last year was fixed in the off-season.
Top Backups
- DT Manuel Wright, Jr. - 23 tackles, 2 sacks, 6 tackles for loss ... At 290 pounds, Wright is one of the team's bigger tackles taking over the full-time starting role left by Shaun Cody. He got a little bit of starting time when Cody played on the outside against BYU and Arizona. However, he's likely to be off to the NFL supplemental draft after flirting with academic ineligibility.
- DE Jeff Schweiger, Soph. - 18 tackles, 2 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss ... Schweiger will once again be a steady backup behind Frostee Rucker. He's a big, rangy player at 6-4 and 250 pounds with a good motor.
- DT Walker Lee Ashley, Fr. - One of the nation's best interior pass rushing recruits, Ashley made 24 sacks and 47 tackles for loss over the last two seasons.
The loss of All-America tackles Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody means there's some rebuilding to be done. Manuel Wright would be solid as a full-time tackle if he didn't have a problem with his grades. He'll likely be off to the NFL supplemental draft meaning Sedrick Ellis and Travis Draper need to come up with big seasons for the Trojans to even have a though of having the nation's number one run defense again. The biggest loss is fiery line coach Ed Orgeron to Ole Miss, but former Green Bay Packer line coach Jethro Franklin should do a good job with this raw, but talented crew.
Player to keep an eye on: DT Sedrick Ellis, Soph. ... Defensive Line rating: 8
Projected Starters
- DE Lawrence Jackson, Soph. - 32 tackles, 6 sacks, 11 tackles for loss ... The 6-5, 270-pound Jackson isn't quite as flashy as past Trojan stars, but he's an effective pass rusher who started almost every game as a freshman. He could be a quick tackle with the potential to have Shaun Cody-like versatility.
- NT Sedrick Ellis, Soph. - 2 tackles ... It'll be up to Ellis to be one of the new stars in the middle as the main replacement for Mike Patterson. He had problems early in his career with an ankle injury, but now appears ready to handle the workload as a quick starter on the nose. The coaching staff raves about him as a rising playmaker.
- DT LaJuan Ramsey, Sr. - 2 tackles ... The 285-pound senior will have to be a factor in the tackle mix playing behind right away if, as expected, Manuel Wright isn't academically eligible. Ramsey served last year as a backup behind Mike Patterson. He can play end if needed, but is better suited, and more needed, for the inside.
- DE Frostee Rucker, Sr. - 29 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss ... Rucker is the most experienced returning lineman with 17 stars and 55 career tackles. Now he'll have to become more of a pass rusher after the injured toe that bothered him all of last year was fixed in the off-season.
Top Backups
- DT Manuel Wright, Jr. - 23 tackles, 2 sacks, 6 tackles for loss ... At 290 pounds, Wright is one of the team's bigger tackles taking over the full-time starting role left by Shaun Cody. He got a little bit of starting time when Cody played on the outside against BYU and Arizona. However, he's likely to be off to the NFL supplemental draft after flirting with academic ineligibility.
- DE Jeff Schweiger, Soph. - 18 tackles, 2 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss ... Schweiger will once again be a steady backup behind Frostee Rucker. He's a big, rangy player at 6-4 and 250 pounds with a good motor.
- DT Walker Lee Ashley, Fr. - One of the nation's best interior pass rushing recruits, Ashley made 24 sacks and 47 tackles for loss over the last two seasons.
Linebackers
Even at USC, it's hard to loose leaders and producers like Lofa Tatupu and Matt Grootegoed without suffering a drop-off. The outside will be fine with the return of Dallas Sartz on the strong side and Keith Rivers a promising prospect on the strongside. Now the Trojans need to find a steady producer inside to replace Tatupu with at least three players in the running. Junior Oscar Lua has the inside track, but the issue won't be settled until the fall.
Player to keep an eye on: Thomas Williams, Soph. ... Linebacker rating: 7.5
Projected Starters
- Dallas Sartz, Sr. - 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss ... The 6-5, 220-pound Sartz has to be the leader of the linebacking corps as the only returning starter. He has been a good starter for the last two seasons playing as a strongside linebacker and a safety. Even though he bulked up, he has still kept his track speed.
- Oscar Lua, Jr. -13 tackles, 1 tackle for loss ... Lua will be in a battle with Thomas Williams and Ryan Powdrell for the starting spot in the middle. While he doesn't have the talent of the other two, he's a tough run defender who will, at the least, be a regular in the rotation.
- Keith Rivers, Soph. - 25 tackles, 1 interception ... A sure tackler, the 220-pound Rivers will get the first look at Matt Grootegoed's spot on the weakside. He's physical with more size than Grootegoed and able to see time on the end if needed as a pass rusher.
Top Backups
- Thomas Williams, Soph. - 14 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss ... Williams was a big-time recruit (even by USC standards) who spent most of his first year on special teams. He'll be more of a major factor pushing for the starting job on the strongside behind Dallas Sartz and competing for the starting spot in the middle. He'll be better on the outside.- Collin Ashton, Sr. - 16 tackles ... The former walk-on has mostly been used as the team's long snapper. He won't be a starter, but he's a versatile backup on the weakside behind Keith Rivers and in the middle.
- Ryan Powdrell, Sr. - The former JUCO All-American didn't provide the pop expected of him failing to make a tackle. He's one of the team's biggest linebackers and will push for the starting job in the middle.
- Rey Maualuga, Fr. - The high school superstar will get every shot at taking over in the middle. He's 6-3 and 250 pounds and a physical tackler.
Even at USC, it's hard to loose leaders and producers like Lofa Tatupu and Matt Grootegoed without suffering a drop-off. The outside will be fine with the return of Dallas Sartz on the strong side and Keith Rivers a promising prospect on the strongside. Now the Trojans need to find a steady producer inside to replace Tatupu with at least three players in the running. Junior Oscar Lua has the inside track, but the issue won't be settled until the fall.
Player to keep an eye on: Thomas Williams, Soph. ... Linebacker rating: 7.5
Projected Starters
- Dallas Sartz, Sr. - 48 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss ... The 6-5, 220-pound Sartz has to be the leader of the linebacking corps as the only returning starter. He has been a good starter for the last two seasons playing as a strongside linebacker and a safety. Even though he bulked up, he has still kept his track speed.
- Oscar Lua, Jr. -13 tackles, 1 tackle for loss ... Lua will be in a battle with Thomas Williams and Ryan Powdrell for the starting spot in the middle. While he doesn't have the talent of the other two, he's a tough run defender who will, at the least, be a regular in the rotation.
- Keith Rivers, Soph. - 25 tackles, 1 interception ... A sure tackler, the 220-pound Rivers will get the first look at Matt Grootegoed's spot on the weakside. He's physical with more size than Grootegoed and able to see time on the end if needed as a pass rusher.
Top Backups
- Thomas Williams, Soph. - 14 tackles, 1 sack, 2 tackles for loss ... Williams was a big-time recruit (even by USC standards) who spent most of his first year on special teams. He'll be more of a major factor pushing for the starting job on the strongside behind Dallas Sartz and competing for the starting spot in the middle. He'll be better on the outside.- Collin Ashton, Sr. - 16 tackles ... The former walk-on has mostly been used as the team's long snapper. He won't be a starter, but he's a versatile backup on the weakside behind Keith Rivers and in the middle.
- Ryan Powdrell, Sr. - The former JUCO All-American didn't provide the pop expected of him failing to make a tackle. He's one of the team's biggest linebackers and will push for the starting job in the middle.
- Rey Maualuga, Fr. - The high school superstar will get every shot at taking over in the middle. He's 6-3 and 250 pounds and a physical tackler.
Defensive Backs
The secondary went through a few rough spots before growing into a solid unit by the end of the year. It had problems with the better quarterbacks like Cal's Aaron Rodgers and Oregon State's Derek Anderson, but gave Oklahoma's Jason White fits. Assuming Eric Wright is back at corner after legal problems, this will be one of the nation's tightest defensive backfields with Justin Wyatt turning into a top all-around defender and Darnell Bing on the short list for the Thorpe Award. Corner depth is a concern, especially if Wright is out for any length of time.
Player to keep an eye on: CB Terrell Thomas, Soph. ... Secondary rating: 9
Projected Starters
- CB Justin Wyatt, Sr. - 40 tackles, 1 interception, 7 broken up passes ... Wyatt will be back from a hernia problem to once again be the team's top corner. He's a good tackler with the speed to match up with any receiver in college football. While not all that big, he's tough and physical.
- FS Scott Ware, Sr. - 16 tackles, 1 broken up pass ... Ware has a little bit of starting experience getting three calls at strong safety replacing Darnell Bing, but he was never fully healthy playing through a variety of left injuries. Now the 6-3, 220-pound former JUCO All-American will take over the full-time job as a big-hitting free safety.
- SS Darnell Bing, Jr. - 63 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 7 broken up passes ... One of the nation's best defensive backs and a top pro prospect, the 220-pound junior is one of the fastest players on the defense and should be even better now that the injured shoulder that bothered him all of last year has healed.
- CB Eric Wright, Soph. - 33 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, 6 tackles for loss ... An investigation into rape charges was dropped due to lack of evidence, but there's still a question of facing suspension from the team for the allegations as well as for drug charges when police found 136 ecstasy pills in his apartment. Assuming he's back as the starter after going through the school's judicial review process, he'll be one of the Pac 10's best young corners after coming on at the end of last year. He's a fantastic athlete who has to stay healthy after suffering a torn hamstring and a knee problem in his young career.
Top Backups
- FS Josh Pinkard, Soph. - 9 tackles ... Mostly a special teamer so far, the 200-pound Pinkard will play a bigger role on defense playing behind Scott Ware at free safety. He's an aggressive big hitter.- CB Terrell Thomas, Soph. - 9 tackles, 2 broken up passes ... With Eric Wright's off-the-field problems, Thomas will be counted on right off the bat. At 6-2 and 195 pounds, he's a big cover-corner who can play safety if needed. With his track star speed, he's better suited for corner.
The secondary went through a few rough spots before growing into a solid unit by the end of the year. It had problems with the better quarterbacks like Cal's Aaron Rodgers and Oregon State's Derek Anderson, but gave Oklahoma's Jason White fits. Assuming Eric Wright is back at corner after legal problems, this will be one of the nation's tightest defensive backfields with Justin Wyatt turning into a top all-around defender and Darnell Bing on the short list for the Thorpe Award. Corner depth is a concern, especially if Wright is out for any length of time.
Player to keep an eye on: CB Terrell Thomas, Soph. ... Secondary rating: 9
Projected Starters
- CB Justin Wyatt, Sr. - 40 tackles, 1 interception, 7 broken up passes ... Wyatt will be back from a hernia problem to once again be the team's top corner. He's a good tackler with the speed to match up with any receiver in college football. While not all that big, he's tough and physical.
- FS Scott Ware, Sr. - 16 tackles, 1 broken up pass ... Ware has a little bit of starting experience getting three calls at strong safety replacing Darnell Bing, but he was never fully healthy playing through a variety of left injuries. Now the 6-3, 220-pound former JUCO All-American will take over the full-time job as a big-hitting free safety.
- SS Darnell Bing, Jr. - 63 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 2 interceptions, 7 broken up passes ... One of the nation's best defensive backs and a top pro prospect, the 220-pound junior is one of the fastest players on the defense and should be even better now that the injured shoulder that bothered him all of last year has healed.
- CB Eric Wright, Soph. - 33 tackles, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, 6 tackles for loss ... An investigation into rape charges was dropped due to lack of evidence, but there's still a question of facing suspension from the team for the allegations as well as for drug charges when police found 136 ecstasy pills in his apartment. Assuming he's back as the starter after going through the school's judicial review process, he'll be one of the Pac 10's best young corners after coming on at the end of last year. He's a fantastic athlete who has to stay healthy after suffering a torn hamstring and a knee problem in his young career.
Top Backups
- FS Josh Pinkard, Soph. - 9 tackles ... Mostly a special teamer so far, the 200-pound Pinkard will play a bigger role on defense playing behind Scott Ware at free safety. He's an aggressive big hitter.- CB Terrell Thomas, Soph. - 9 tackles, 2 broken up passes ... With Eric Wright's off-the-field problems, Thomas will be counted on right off the bat. At 6-2 and 195 pounds, he's a big cover-corner who can play safety if needed. With his track star speed, he's better suited for corner.
Special Teams
The special teams will be among the nation's best if Mario Danelo can come through as a reliable placekicker. Tom Malone will be a Ray Guy finalist and Reggie Bush and Desmond Reed will be as dangerous as any returners in America. The coverage units could stand to be a tad bit tighter.
Special Teams rating: 9
- Placekicker Mario Danelo, Soph. - Danelo has to replace steady all-star Ryan Killeen who handled all the kicking chores for the last three seasons. Danelo, son for former NFL kicker Joe Danelo, will get the first shot to take over and needs to prove he can be consistent early on.
- Punter Tom Malone, Sr. - One of the nation's best punters, Malone has a career average of 44.5 yards per kick and will be on the short list for the Ray Guy Award. He can do it all from placement to airing it out.
The special teams will be among the nation's best if Mario Danelo can come through as a reliable placekicker. Tom Malone will be a Ray Guy finalist and Reggie Bush and Desmond Reed will be as dangerous as any returners in America. The coverage units could stand to be a tad bit tighter.
Special Teams rating: 9
- Placekicker Mario Danelo, Soph. - Danelo has to replace steady all-star Ryan Killeen who handled all the kicking chores for the last three seasons. Danelo, son for former NFL kicker Joe Danelo, will get the first shot to take over and needs to prove he can be consistent early on.
- Punter Tom Malone, Sr. - One of the nation's best punters, Malone has a career average of 44.5 yards per kick and will be on the short list for the Ray Guy Award. He can do it all from placement to airing it out.
[/font]
- USC Depth Chart
- USC Depth Chart
OFFENSE Returning Starters: 8QB 11 Matt Leinart, 6-5 225 Sr.
10 John David Booty, 6-3 195 Soph.
7 Rocky Hinds, 6-4 225 RFr.
Mark Sanchez, 6-4 215 Fr.
TB 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
21 LenDale White, 6-2 235 Jr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph. OR
26 Chauncey Washington, 6-1 205 Soph.
27 Michael Coleman, 6-1 225 Fr.
34 Hershel Dennis, 5-11 200 Sr. INJ.
FB 37 David Kirtman, 6-0 225 Sr.
40 Brandon Hancock, 6-1 230 Jr.
41 Jody Adewale, 6-0 215 Soph.
30 Mike Brittingham, 6-1 220 Jr.
47 Sean Kelly, 5-10 195 Soph.
FL 2 Steve Smith, 6-1 195, Jr.
82 Chris McFoy, 6-1 195 Jr.
4 Whitney Lewis, 6-1 225 Soph.
48 Brad Walker, 6-2 200 Soph.
80 John Zilka, 6-4 210 Jr.
SE 8 Dwayne Jarrett, 6-5 195 Soph.
31 William Buchanon, 6-3 190 Sr.
19 Greig Carlson, 5-10 195 Sr.
25 Wil Smith, 6-0 195 Sr.
TE 86 Dominique Byrd, 6-3 260 Sr.
89 Dale Thompson, 6-4 255 Soph. OR
83 Fred Davis, 6-4 215 Soph. OR
87 Nick Vanderboom, 6-4 235 Jr. OR
88 Jimmy Miller, 6-6 250 RFr.
LT 79 Sam Baker, 6-5 290 Soph.
75 Kyle Williams, 6-6 290 Jr.
77 Thomas Herring, 6-6 315 Fr.
LG 53 Jeff Byers, 6-3 275 Soph. OR
60 Drew Radovich, 6-5 290 Soph.
70 Alatini Malu, 6-4 335 Soph.
C 67 Ryan Kalil, 6-4 275 Jr.
69 Matt Spanos, 6-5 285 Soph.
61 Ross Burruel, 6-2 285 Sr.
RG 51 Fred Matua, 6-2 305 Jr.
66 Chilo Rachal, 6-6 310 RFr.
72 John Lanza, 6-3 255 Jr.
RT 74 Winston Justice, 6-6 300 Sr.
71 Tatusi Lutui, 6-6 370 Sr.
<TABLE class=MsoTableGrid id=table1 style="BORDER-TOP-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-LEFT-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-BOTTOM-WIDTH: 0px; BORDER-COLLAPSE: collapse; BORDER-RIGHT-WIDTH: 0px" cellPadding=0 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD style="PADDING-RIGHT: 5.4pt; PADDING-LEFT: 5.4pt; PADDING-BOTTOM: 0in; WIDTH: 221.4pt; PADDING-TOP: 0in" vAlign=top width=295>DEFENSE Returning Starters: 9
DE 96 Lawrence Jackson, 6-5 270 Soph.
97 Alex Morrow, 6-5 270 Soph.
65 Jeff Tola, 6-1 225 Soph.
NT 49 Sedrick Ellis, 6-2 275 Soph.
63 Travis Draper, 6-4 275 RFr.
64 Mike Davis, 6-0 280 Jr.
DT 98 LaJuan Ramsey, 6-3 285 Sr. OR
91 Fili Moala, 6-5 300 RFr. OR
96 Travis Tofi, 6-4 255 Jr.
93 Lawrence Miles, 6-3 270 RFr.
92 Manuel Wright, 6-6 290 Jr. starter if eligible
DE 90 Frostee Rucker, 6-4 255 Sr.
54 Jeff Schweiger, 6-4 250 Soph.
44 Rashaad Goodrum, 6-3 245 Jr.
9 Chris Barrett, 6-5 270 Soph.
48 Michael Stuart, 6-3 235 RFr.
SLB 42 Dallas Sartz, 6-5 220 Sr.
41 Thomas Williams, 6-3 225 Soph.
47 Clay Matthews, 6-3 230 RFr.
MLB 45 Oscar Lua, 6-2 240 Jr. OR
56 Ryan Powdrell, 6-1 250 Sr. OR
41 Thomas Williams, 6-3 225 Soph.
WLB 55 Keith Rivers, 6-3 220 Soph.
59 Collin Ashton, 6-1 215 Sr.
CB 24 Justin Wyatt, 5-10 180 Sr.
18 John Walker, 6-2 200 Sr.
46 Alex Gomez, 5-10 175 Sr.
FS 29 Scott Ware, 6-3 220 Sr.
36 Josh Pinkard, 6-1 200 Soph.
39 Ryan Ting, 5-10 180 Jr.
38 Brandon Ting, 5-10 180 Jr.
SS 20 Darnell Bing, 6-2 220 Jr.
36 Josh Pinkard, 6-1 200 Soph.
4 Kevin Ellison, 6-2 220 Fr.
CB 25 Eric Wright, 5-11 190 Soph.28 Terrell Thomas, 6-2 195 Soph.
22 Jim Abbott, 5-10 175 RFr.
SPECIAL TEAMS
PK 19 Mario Danelo, 5-10 210 Soph.
P 14 Tom Malone, 6-0 190 Sr.
18 Taylor Odegard, 5-10 160 RFr.
KR 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph.
4 Whitney Lewis, 6-1 225 Soph. OR
26 Chauncey Washington, 6-1 205 Soph.
PR 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
19 Greig Carlson, 5-10 195 Sr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph.
By John Harris
With a fresh set of downs…
1<SUP>st</SUP> and Ten – Secondarily Important? – If the 2005 version of the USC Trojans is to be as successful as the last three squads to wear the cardinal and gold, the secondary must be ‘big time’. Although you would never have thought that they played any close games during the year last year, the Trojans were tested on a few occasions, and those teams (Cal, Stanford, Oregon State and UCLA) threw the ball sufficiently well enough to stay in the game. Cal’s Aaron Rodgers went 23 for his first 23 against the USC secondary, even though he missed his three last throws with the game on the line. Regardless, the Trojan secondary put on a show in the Orange Bowl to demoralize the former ‘Trophy’ (aka Jason White) and help lead USC to a blowout victory and a national championship. The three returning starters, Darnell Bing, Eric Wright and Justin Wyatt, have plenty of experience and the spotlight is going to be on them again, but perhaps for a different reason. With the loss of linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu and, even more importantly to the secondary, DL Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody, the secondary has to be the rock for the defense this year. USC, essentially, has been reloading the past three years, so there’s no question that the defense will round itself out quite well, but watch the pressure grow on this secondary if the defensive line can’t get to the quarterback, like they have the last three years. If USC head coach and defensive coordinator Pete Carroll has to blitz to get heat, the secondary will have more man coverage responsibilities and that could be the great equalizer for opponents with solid pitch and catch combinations. Suffice it to say, the secondary is primarily important for the USC defense this year.
2<SUP>nd</SUP> and Seven – The Best of all Time? – When you start talking the best of all time, it doesn’t matter what you’re talking about, you’re going to start an argument. But, take a look at the offensive passing game for the USC Trojans this season. WR Steve Smith showed how valuable he was to this team in the Orange Bowl. WR Dwayne Jarrett was the best freshman receiver not named Calvin Johnson (okay, USC fans send in the emails). TE Dominique Byrd is one of the nation’s best TE (if he’s eligible). We haven’t even seen what All-World talent Whitney Lewis can do. And, there’s some guy named Bush who splits out wide on occasion. Oh yeah, let’s give them the ‘Trophy’ (Matt Leinart) to throw them the ball. Now, on paper, you tell me, how good are they? Best of all time? Debatable, but they’re in the team picture, that’s for sure.
3<SUP>rd</SUP> and Three – Welcome Back – As mentioned above, Whitney Lewis will finally get on the field to show how talented he is, but there’s another Trojan that is equally important that makes his re-arrival as well - offensive tackle Winston Justice. The youngster sat out last year after he was suspended for a campus incident, but he has a load of talent, first round NFL talent in fact. Similar to Marcus Vick, who has had his share of incidents at Virginia Tech, Justice has more talent than the tackles in front of him, but whether he starts remains a question of maturity and growth. Justice has the complete package – feet, quickness and power – but he has to show his learned from his past transgressions.
4<SUP>th</SUP> and One – Overshadowed No More – As the third wheel of the linebacking corps for the past two years, Dallas Sartz never was given a fair amount attention, considering the fact that his running mates were Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu. Even with Tatupu and Grootegoed there, Sartz was a versatile ‘piece’ that Carroll could use in many different schemes and packages. He returns for his third year as a starter as the Sam backer (strong side). Due to his speed/quickness, blitzing acumen and pass coverage skills, Sartz could be as valuable to this year’s defense as Tatupu and Grootegoed were to last year’s.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
DE 96 Lawrence Jackson, 6-5 270 Soph.
97 Alex Morrow, 6-5 270 Soph.
65 Jeff Tola, 6-1 225 Soph.
NT 49 Sedrick Ellis, 6-2 275 Soph.
63 Travis Draper, 6-4 275 RFr.
64 Mike Davis, 6-0 280 Jr.
DT 98 LaJuan Ramsey, 6-3 285 Sr. OR
91 Fili Moala, 6-5 300 RFr. OR
96 Travis Tofi, 6-4 255 Jr.
93 Lawrence Miles, 6-3 270 RFr.
92 Manuel Wright, 6-6 290 Jr. starter if eligible
DE 90 Frostee Rucker, 6-4 255 Sr.
54 Jeff Schweiger, 6-4 250 Soph.
44 Rashaad Goodrum, 6-3 245 Jr.
9 Chris Barrett, 6-5 270 Soph.
48 Michael Stuart, 6-3 235 RFr.
SLB 42 Dallas Sartz, 6-5 220 Sr.
41 Thomas Williams, 6-3 225 Soph.
47 Clay Matthews, 6-3 230 RFr.
MLB 45 Oscar Lua, 6-2 240 Jr. OR
56 Ryan Powdrell, 6-1 250 Sr. OR
41 Thomas Williams, 6-3 225 Soph.
WLB 55 Keith Rivers, 6-3 220 Soph.
59 Collin Ashton, 6-1 215 Sr.
CB 24 Justin Wyatt, 5-10 180 Sr.
18 John Walker, 6-2 200 Sr.
46 Alex Gomez, 5-10 175 Sr.
FS 29 Scott Ware, 6-3 220 Sr.
36 Josh Pinkard, 6-1 200 Soph.
39 Ryan Ting, 5-10 180 Jr.
38 Brandon Ting, 5-10 180 Jr.
SS 20 Darnell Bing, 6-2 220 Jr.
36 Josh Pinkard, 6-1 200 Soph.
4 Kevin Ellison, 6-2 220 Fr.
CB 25 Eric Wright, 5-11 190 Soph.28 Terrell Thomas, 6-2 195 Soph.
22 Jim Abbott, 5-10 175 RFr.
SPECIAL TEAMS
PK 19 Mario Danelo, 5-10 210 Soph.
P 14 Tom Malone, 6-0 190 Sr.
18 Taylor Odegard, 5-10 160 RFr.
KR 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph.
4 Whitney Lewis, 6-1 225 Soph. OR
26 Chauncey Washington, 6-1 205 Soph.
PR 5 Reggie Bush, 6-0 200 Jr.
19 Greig Carlson, 5-10 195 Sr.
22 Desmond Reed, 5-9 180 Soph.
By John Harris
With a fresh set of downs…
1<SUP>st</SUP> and Ten – Secondarily Important? – If the 2005 version of the USC Trojans is to be as successful as the last three squads to wear the cardinal and gold, the secondary must be ‘big time’. Although you would never have thought that they played any close games during the year last year, the Trojans were tested on a few occasions, and those teams (Cal, Stanford, Oregon State and UCLA) threw the ball sufficiently well enough to stay in the game. Cal’s Aaron Rodgers went 23 for his first 23 against the USC secondary, even though he missed his three last throws with the game on the line. Regardless, the Trojan secondary put on a show in the Orange Bowl to demoralize the former ‘Trophy’ (aka Jason White) and help lead USC to a blowout victory and a national championship. The three returning starters, Darnell Bing, Eric Wright and Justin Wyatt, have plenty of experience and the spotlight is going to be on them again, but perhaps for a different reason. With the loss of linebackers Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu and, even more importantly to the secondary, DL Mike Patterson and Shaun Cody, the secondary has to be the rock for the defense this year. USC, essentially, has been reloading the past three years, so there’s no question that the defense will round itself out quite well, but watch the pressure grow on this secondary if the defensive line can’t get to the quarterback, like they have the last three years. If USC head coach and defensive coordinator Pete Carroll has to blitz to get heat, the secondary will have more man coverage responsibilities and that could be the great equalizer for opponents with solid pitch and catch combinations. Suffice it to say, the secondary is primarily important for the USC defense this year.
2<SUP>nd</SUP> and Seven – The Best of all Time? – When you start talking the best of all time, it doesn’t matter what you’re talking about, you’re going to start an argument. But, take a look at the offensive passing game for the USC Trojans this season. WR Steve Smith showed how valuable he was to this team in the Orange Bowl. WR Dwayne Jarrett was the best freshman receiver not named Calvin Johnson (okay, USC fans send in the emails). TE Dominique Byrd is one of the nation’s best TE (if he’s eligible). We haven’t even seen what All-World talent Whitney Lewis can do. And, there’s some guy named Bush who splits out wide on occasion. Oh yeah, let’s give them the ‘Trophy’ (Matt Leinart) to throw them the ball. Now, on paper, you tell me, how good are they? Best of all time? Debatable, but they’re in the team picture, that’s for sure.
3<SUP>rd</SUP> and Three – Welcome Back – As mentioned above, Whitney Lewis will finally get on the field to show how talented he is, but there’s another Trojan that is equally important that makes his re-arrival as well - offensive tackle Winston Justice. The youngster sat out last year after he was suspended for a campus incident, but he has a load of talent, first round NFL talent in fact. Similar to Marcus Vick, who has had his share of incidents at Virginia Tech, Justice has more talent than the tackles in front of him, but whether he starts remains a question of maturity and growth. Justice has the complete package – feet, quickness and power – but he has to show his learned from his past transgressions.
4<SUP>th</SUP> and One – Overshadowed No More – As the third wheel of the linebacking corps for the past two years, Dallas Sartz never was given a fair amount attention, considering the fact that his running mates were Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu. Even with Tatupu and Grootegoed there, Sartz was a versatile ‘piece’ that Carroll could use in many different schemes and packages. He returns for his third year as a starter as the Sam backer (strong side). Due to his speed/quickness, blitzing acumen and pass coverage skills, Sartz could be as valuable to this year’s defense as Tatupu and Grootegoed were to last year’s.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
2005 Recruiting Class
Star of the Class
Mark Sanchez QB 6-3 215 Mission Viejo (Mission Viejo) Ca.
He was named 2004 Parade All-American Player of the Year, Super Prep All-American Player of the Year, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Student Sports Top 100, Prep Star All-American, Tom Lemming All-American, Scout.com All-American first team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 first team, Gatorade California Player of the Year, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, All-CIF Southern Section, All-CIF Division II Co-Offensive Player of the Year, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Los Angeles Times All-Orange County Back of the Year, Orange County Register All-Orange County and All-South Coast League Co-Offensive MVP as a senior quarterback at Mission Viejo (Calif.) High...He completed 151-of-245 (61.6%) passes for 2,441 yards with 24 TDs and 4 interceptions in 2004 despite sitting out 8 halves because Mission Viejo was winning handily
Instant Impact Players
Thomas Herring OL 6-6 315 Los Angeles (Fremont) Ca.
He originally signed with USC in 2004, but did not qualify for admission...He was named a 2003 Parade All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Insiders.com All-American, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Tom Lemming Top 100, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Orange County Register Fab 15 first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, All-L.A. City first team, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Los Angeles Times All-Central City Lineman of the Year selection as a senior two-way tackle and tight end at Fremont High in Los Angeles (Calif.)...
Patrick Turner WR 6-5 215 Nashville (Goodpasture) Tenn.
He was a 2004 Parade All-American, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team, Student Sports Top 100, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Tom Lemming All-American, Scout.com All-American first team, USA Today All-USA second team, EA Sports All-American second team, Super Prep All-Dixie Offensive Player of the Year and Prep Star All-Southeast selection as a senior wide receiver at Goodpasture High in West Madison (Tenn.)...He had 48 receptions for 800-plus yards and 11 touchdowns in 2004...As a junior, he caught 56 passes for 955 yards (17.1 avg.) with 12 TDs
Rest of the Class
<TABLE id=table12 width=445 align=left border=0><TBODY><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Walker Ashley</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-5</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>295</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Eden Prairie (Eden Prairie)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Minn.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Charles Brown</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>TE/DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-6</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>245</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Pomona (Diamond Ranch)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Luther Brown</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Lakewood (Lakewood)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Michael Coleman</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>ATH</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>San Bernardino (Arroyo Valley)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Brian Cushing</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-3</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Oradell (Bergen Catholic)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>N.J.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kevin Ellison</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>220</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Redondo Beach (Redondo Union)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Will Harris</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>190</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Covina (Charter Oak)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Cary Harris</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>180</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Sherman Oaks (Notre Dame)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Nick Howell</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>OL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-6</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>265</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Fresno (Bullard)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Gabe Long</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DT</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-4</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>280</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Fullerton</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kaluka Maiava</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>5-11</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>210</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Wailuku (Baldwin)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Hi</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Rey Maualuga</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>LB</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>240</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Eureka (Eureka)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kyle Moore</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-7</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>265</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Warner Robins (Houston County)</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ga.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Averell Spicer</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DL</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-2</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>260</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Rancho Cucamonga </TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>Ca.</TD></TR><TR><TD width=140 bgColor=#ffffff>Kevin Thomas
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>DB
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>6-1
</TD><TD width=30 bgColor=#ffffff>180
</TD><TD width=215 bgColor=#ffffff>Oxnard (Rio Mesa) Ca.
</TD><TD width=40 bgColor=#ffffff>
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
.
Please be more reasonable, like @ Oregon or @ Arizona State or @ Cal. 
