Icon

Despite being #1 in the polls, USC isn’t as dangerous as they used to be. And their schedule this season doesn’t make their chances of being that way again good. Pete Carroll has a full plate this year. It starts with a shootout in Lincoln against the Cornhuskers, a double shot of the Pacific Northwest with both Washingtons and both Oregons, a nail biter in Berkeley against Cal, and finishes with the Rose Bowl Roast against UCLA. John David Booty will need a lot of help from Fred Davis as well as Chauncey Washington if the Trojans are looking to be perfect this season.    

Ron Johnson

 

USC’s combination of talent and depth is second to none.  With Heisman Trophy candidate QB John David Booty supported by a stable of solid running backs, an experienced offensive line, and one of the top five defenses in the country, SC should dominate this year as long as they don’t play down to their competition like last year.  

David Williams

 

Hardly a weakness to be found and a manageable schedule compared to other top teams.  Due to inexperience in the receiving corps, the high-powered passing game of years past won't be there at the beginning, so look for the running game and defense to set the tone for the first half of the season.  This will lead to closer games than Vegas and the media expect, but don't doubt this squad for a minute.  The passing will be there for the second half and then the Trojans will really give us a ride.  

Frank Swanagan

 

I think they slip up once with that schedule, but still should deserve a spot in the title game.

Mike Bell

 

Enough athletes to compete with anybody.

Steve Tutaj

 

This year, their defense will dominate.  

Chris Khorey