Bleacher Report - Articles by Kyle Bunch

Oh yeah, it's Magic!

Kyle Bunch — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 02:33:13 -0400

Magic makes anybody look good. So good that I have to write at least 300 characters about this random set of Magic Johnson photos I've collected to try out the nifty photo gallery feature on Bleacher Report. So here I have three pictures of Magic -- with celebrities, in awkward poses, and with random dudes I don't recognize. Enjoy.

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2008-09 NBA Guarantee: Portland Finishes with the Best Record in the West

Kyle Bunch — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 06:30:57 -0400

Originally posted at kylebunch.com

NBA fans and experts—I’ve got a guarantee for the 2008-09 season. I must apologize to my Lakers and fellow purple-and-gold fans before I make it—but as much as I love the Lake Show, this is just science:

The Portland Trail Blazers will finish with the best record in the Western Conference.

I issue this promise not simply because of the awe-inspiring collection of young talent they have assembled. From Roy (who, mark my words, will be this year’s CP3, vaulting into the upper echelons of NBA super-stardom in ‘08-09) to Oden to Aldridge to Bayless, everyone knows this team is stacked.

If top young basketball talent were supple human flesh, Kevin Pritchard would be the Buffalo Bill of the NBA. That’s no revelation.

I’m betting big on the Blazers because of several intangible factors, which will more than compensate for the team’s relative lack of experience. In every sport there are those teams, perched at the right intersection of opportunity and readiness, whose preparation gets a nice assist from external circumstances beyond their control to propel them past reasonable expectations.

The Blazers are in that magical spot this year, thanks to these six factors:

1. Kobe’s pinky (and postseason chip on his shoulder)
With their finish last year and the return of Bynum, the Lakers are certain to start the season as the odds-on favorites to win the West. And I do believe that by the time the Western Conference Playoffs are through, the purple-and-gold will rise to the top again.

But while Kobe and the Lake Show will start 2008-09 with something to prove, that proving ground lies exclusively in two spots: Boston and the NBA Finals. The Lakers could sport the best regular season record in history next year, but it won’t help them live down the embarrassment of games four and six if they can’t get it done in the playoffs.

Kobe’s got his MVP; he’s proven he can lead a team to the top of the regular season heap. Phil Jackson is a master of pacing his teams for the postseason.

Add in the injuries—Kobe’s pinky, which, unless there’s been a second opinion I didn’t hear about, still needs surgery and Andrew Bynum’s still-untested rehabbed knee—and if the Lakers know what’s good for them, they will pace their output and try to peak in April-June, instead of December-March.

2. New Orleans, CP3, and the Loss of the Surprise Factor
New Orleans enjoyed a good two or three months before anyone took them seriously last season. Not going to happen this year.

Sure, Chris Paul is young and potentially still getting better. And Tyson Chandler, David West, and Peja form a nice core that will keep this team competitive for some time.

But everyone who comes to play them this year is going to bring their best. They may step up, respond, and remain in the hunt—but do you really want to bet on them improving upon their 2007-08 next season?

3. Aging Western Powerhouses
The Suns and Mavericks each made blockbuster deals last year, both of which just increased the miles on their respective squads. And the Spurs are so old, they’ve started making out a Bucket List.

Even if more time in Phoenix enables Shaq to gel with Nash and the Suns core, you really think he’s playing more than 60 games this year?

And while J. Kidd may be good-to-go in more games than Shaq, did you see his defense against the top PGs of the West? Chris Paul, Deron Williams, heck even Derek Fisher—they all ran circles around him last year.

Is a summer spent playing ball with USAB and not resting up (see next item) really going to improve those results?

4. The Olympics
While Western superstars Kobe, Pau Gasol, Chris Paul, Deron Williams, Carlos Boozer, Jason Kidd, and Yao Ming (and potentially Manu Ginobili and Dirk Nowitzki too) are off gallivanting in Beijing, B. Roy and the Blazers will be back in Rip City, working out and getting a bit of rest.

You’ve already got fresh, young legs—now you have the chance to rest while the rest of the top teams have to wear out their best players in pursuit of Olympic glory? It’s downright unfair…and Portland must be salivating over the advantage it confers upon them.

5. Raef Lafrentz’s contract
OK, this one isn’t exactly an intangible or an external factor—NBA GM’s covet expiring contracts like the Lafrentz monstrosity almost as much as LeBron covets a New York home address—but it might be the biggest and perhaps most-overlooked thing the Blazers currently have going for them.

Not only do the Blazers have the most-talented young team in the league, in Lafrentz’s expiring $12 million deal, they’re sitting on the single best piece of trade bait out there. If Mitch Kupchak managed to turn Kwame Brown into Pau Gasol, what could Pritchard do with Raef’s soon-off-the-books millions? Frightening.

(And equally or perhaps even more scary—Pritchard or Lafrentz this year for a top veteran or a couple role players, still have free agent dollars to spend with Steve Francis’s expiring $17 million contract, and next year he’ll get to do the same thing with Darius Miles’ expiring $9 mil per deal.)

6. Clay Bennett and the Sonics debacle
The final dark horse external factor that will buoy the Blazers in 2008-09 comes by virtue of the Sonics' relocation. Where do you think all those spurned Seattle fans will turn? Sure, some of them have rooted against Portland for years and may take awhile to warm to the Blazers.

But there’s literally millions of alienated Pacific Northwest basketball fans—some of the most die-hard round ball lovers on the planet—who will have a void to fill. You think a majority of them are going to turn to Golden State or Minnesota for their pro basketball fix? Clay Bennett spurned the beautiful girl, and chased her right into Paul Allen’s hands, with a jilted lover mentality to boot.

Portland’s about to score a bunch of jilted lovers, eager to show Bennett and the former Sonics what they’re missing. And they’re going to scream loud enough to be heard in Oklahoma City.

A lot of you probably think I’m crazy, even with the reasons I listed above. But that’s the beauty of long shot predictions—you’ll have to wait to talk to me in April.

USC: The Coaches Tour Kicks Off

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 14 May 2008 19:40:57 -0400

Does Pete Carroll like his martini shaken, not stirred?

Does Tim Floyd really demand a mini-USC umbrella in every mixed drink?

If you want to see these questions (and many more) answered first-hand, sign up for one of the seven event dates from May 28 to June 12 for the third annual USC Coaches Tour.

For the third year in a row, Pete Carroll and Tim Floyd will travel throughout California to give USC fans and boosters the opportunity to hear first-hand accounts of the latest comings and goings at Troy.

Each of the seven dates on the tour feature a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. and a dinner and program that start at 7 p.m.

The program includes are a Q&A session with both coaches and a silent auction. Business casual attire is suggested.

Proceeds from the tour will benefit the Mario Danelo Endowed Scholarship and the Ryan Francis Endowed Scholarship funds.

All your friends will think you're the ultimate bad-ass when they see photos of you between Carroll and Floyd. Plus, it all goes to a decent cause. Please see the CSTV site for information regarding tickets, dates and RSVP information.

Where Art Thou, Fred Davis?

Kyle Bunch — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:10:22 -0400

Fred Davis was actually asleep during this diving touchdown.

'Twas the last day of mini-camp,
Redskins' practice was on,
but coach Zorn was fearful,
for a player was gone.

"There's Thomas and Kelly,
But where is big Fred?"
Tight-end Davis was sleeping,
snuggled up in his bed.

Talk about a rookie mistake. As reported on the Washington Post, former USC and Mackey award winning TE Fred Davis was a no-show his last day of mini-camp: "Fred Davis, the team's second selection in last weekend's NFL draft, did not report to practice yesterday and had to be located by team security personnel."

Davis' brother Kendran had this to say, in regards to his brother's absence: "Knowing Frederick the way I do, he was probably just out late and he overslept, he probably just didn't hear the alarm. And I know he wasn't feeling too good the other day."

Apparently Davis never learned the Head and Shoulders campaign of the 1980s...You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Unless you have a pack of Mentos, of course. Then nothing can go wrong.

Old School Rivarly...in Color

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 17:25:15 -0400

Do you kick it old school? Getting back into the '80s clothing craze? Sport a flat top despite your friends' good advice? Think everything was better "back in the day"? Then you're going to love this one. Believe it or not, there was a purer time in college football, one not constrained by all the NCAA rules and regulations; there was a time when the visiting team didn't have to wear white. And 710 ESPN commentator Dave Dameshek wants to bring it back. Not for every game...just for the most important one. Dameshek wants to revive the colossal match-up, Cardinal vs. Powder Blue, in the USC-UCLA rivalry games. But in order to get the ball rolling, Dameshek, -nay the world-, needs your help! As reported by Adam Rose on All Things Trojan: 710 ESPN's Dave Dameshek recently got Pete Carroll and Rick Neuheisel on the record to support a return to the good ol' days. Unfortunately, there's more to it. The schools will need to ask the NCAA for a waiver, and you know how red tape can be. Instead of sticking cheerleaders outside of some administrators door, Dameshek (with help from Joyless Joey) is building support with a petition. Sign the online petition to help bring color back to our colorless world. Imagine a cardinal wave smashing into a powder blue tide. It's no longer football...it's art. A color combination that would make Picasso weep and DiVinci fall to his knees.

Bruce Feldman's Analysis of USC's Draft Class

Kyle Bunch — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:34:40 -0400

A great weekend for the USC program cemented just how amazing the Trojans' 2003 recruiting class was.

Sedrick Ellis, Sam Baker and Lawrence Jackson are the three latest members of USC's 2003 class, which I think should go down as the best recruiting class in modern college football history (i.e. when teams couldn't sign as many recruits as they want), to be drafted in the first round, joining Reggie Bush from two years ago.

As of now, the Trojans have an astounding nine first-day draft picks from that class: Baker, Bush, Ellis, Jackson, Ryan Kalil, Steve Smith, Terrell Thomas, LenDale White and Eric Wright. (There also could be a 10th coming in 2009 when DT Fili Moala comes through.) Other USC '03s that have been drafted are John David Booty, Will Poole, Chauncey Washington and Thomas Williams. Final draft [ESPN Insider]

Former Coach: Davon Jefferson's Early Departure a "Terrible Mistake"

Kyle Bunch — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 13:17:49 -0400

There was a general sigh of relief when sources close to Davon Jefferson announced he would be returning his for his sophomore season. But all that relief has turned upside down in the last few days, after a Fox Sports report came out saying Jefferson was to declare for the draft after all, signing with agent Arn Tellem. LA Times added further credence to the claims, reporting that USC spokesman Dave Tuttle was contacted by league representatives who requested Jefferson's biographical information, from which it can be inferred that Jefferson declared prior to the Sunday evening deadline. There are many out there that think Jeffersons early departure may be a huge mistake; that he would have undoubtedly benefited from an extra season under his belt. In 2007 when he was on, he was on, but other times his attitude and play were inconsistent. As quoted by the LA Times, even Jefferson's former AAU coach, Rick Isaacs, thinks Jefferson is heading out too soon. "I think it's a terrible mistake, and whoever convinced him to leave should be ostracized...If he stayed, he'd have a chance to be a top-10 pick and maybe as high as five or six [next year]" Jefferson was USC's second leading scorer in 2007, averaging 12.1 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. With the loss of both Jefferson and Mayo, the Trojans stand to incur a net loss of 32.8 points and 10.8 rebounds per game.

NFL Draft Breakdown By Trojan

Kyle Bunch — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:09:44 -0400

Draft footage of USC first-rounders: Ellis, Rivers, Baker and Jackson USC had a phenomenal draft. Nearly 13% of picks drafted in the first round were USC Trojans. USC owned 11% of picks through the end of the second round. USC had 10 draft picks overall, the most out of any school, including four in the first round (also the most out of any school). Here's the draft breakdown by Trojan player. Sedrick Ellis - 1st round, 7th pick to the New Orleans, Saints. Keith Rivers - 1st round, 9th pick, to the Cincinnati Bengals. Sam Baker - 1st round, 21st pick - to the Atlanta Falcons Lawrence Jackson - 1st round, 28th pick - Seattle Seahawks Chilo Rachal - 2nd round, 8th pick - San Francisco, 49ers Fred Davis - 2nd round, 17th pick - to the Washington Redskins Terrell Thomas - New York Giants - 2nd round, 32nd pick (63rd overall) John David Booty - 5th round, 2nd pick - Minnesota Vikings Thomas Williams - 5th round, 20th pick - Jacksonville Jaguars Chauncey Washington - 7th round, 6th pick Jacksonville Jaguars

NFL Draft: Jacksonville Jaguars Double-Dip into USC Trojan Talent Pool

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 17:11:24 -0400

Chauncey Washington for President; '06 &'07 Highlights Then the Jaguars double-dipped into the Trojan talent pool, grabbing runningback Chauncey Washington with the 6th pick of the 7th round. Washington came to the Trojans in the same '03 class as Lendale White and Reggie Bush. But injuries had him sidelined in '03 and redshirt in '04 and '05. But as they saying goes, patience ended up being Washington's greatest virtue. With the departure of Bush and White to the NFL, and USC's tailback situation in question, Washington was the back who stepped up. He led the Trojans in rushing in 2006 with 744 yards and 9 TDs. Then in 2007, Washington kicked it up a notch. Even with young-uns Joe McKnight and Stafon Johnson as viable tailback options, Chauncey Washington was the choice for O.C. Sarkisian and Pete Carroll. Washington received more than double the carries as any other tailback, and led the Trojans with 969 yards and 10 TDs. 220 of his near 1,000 yards came from a remarkable career-high game, with Washington running all over a very soggy Cal Bears. Washington is a sizable north-south runner with excellent vision, power and blocking ability, reminiscent of the Lendale White style of game. He should become a solid combo punch along with Jacksonville's Fred Taylor (1202 yards, 5 TDs in 2007) and Maurice Jones Drew (768 yards, 9 TDs). Overall it has been an excellent two days for the Trojans, with 10 out of 12 players getting selected in the draft. Only guard Drew Radovich and center Matt Spanos remain undrafted. Both would be steals as free agent picks.

NFL DRAFT: Thomas Williams to the Jacksonville Jaguars

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 16:48:27 -0400

Thomas Williams carries an important message: Inspiration and determination can get you anywhere. The 2007 Jacksonville Jaguars were a well-rounded playoff team, led by a David Garrard who completed 64% of his passes for and 18 touchdowns to just 3 interceptions. Their eventual ’07 demise came by way of a second-half defensive collapse to the undefeated New England Patriots in the second round of the playoffs. It makes sense then, that the Jaguars spent their first four picks on quality defensive and special teams players. That includes USC outside linebacker Thomas Williams, with their 5th round, #22 selection. Williams struggled to get on the field at USC, mainly due to the Trojans ridiculous depth at his position. When a space came up on special teams, Williams jumped head first into the task. His speed, tackling and blocking ability added to his special teams versatility. Williams ended up winning a part of the USC 2007 Co-Special Teams Player of the Year Award, which is likely what landed him the Jaguars' job. In addition to the Special Teams accolade, Williams was a All-Pac-10 Honorable mention pick and also landed USC’s Most Inspirational Player Award.

UCLA Football: Ben Olsen is Screwed, Pat Cowan is Out for Season

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 14:53:59 -0400

It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt. UCLA's injury free-spring turned disastrous when both UCLA quarterbacks were injured in back-to-back non contact drills. Projected starter, Ben Olson got screwed...literally. He suffered foot injury that will require doctors to put a screw in him. He'll be out six to eight weeks. In a bigger loss to UCLA, 5th year senior Patrick Cowan might see the end to his collegiate football career. As reported on the Bleacher Report Cowan will miss the entire 2008 season due to a major tear in his ACL in his left knee that will require surgery. Cowan will therefore be forced to use a medical redshirt. But due to to NCAA redshirt rule, "the criteria for gaining a sixth year is missing two seasons beyond a player's control. There was no medical issue when [Cowan] red-shirted as a freshman." Pat Cowan will have to petition to get the possibility a sixth year, of which approval seems unlikely. Now the real question...Why do we care? Have you ever been in the coliseum when an opposing player gets seriously injured? You'll see the majority of the Trojan fans put their Vs up. It's a compliment to USC's character. For as much as we rip on these dudes, a possible career ending injury is no joke. Not to mention Cowan's the subject of my favorite Trojan hard-hit, in a rich history of Trojan caused damage.

NFL Draft: Bye, Bye Booty...John David Picked by the Minnesota Vikings

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 13:14:27 -0400

John David Booty gets his shot in Minnesota. Image from Scout. Minnesota's recent bid to acquire monster defensive end Jared Allen from the Chiefs cost them their 1rst, 3rd and 4th round draft picks. They are now set to have one of the strongest defensive lines in the league, come the start of the 2008 season. Minnesota already has a deadly running game with Adrian Peterson and Chester Taylor. But many blame the Vikings interception prone quarterback Tarvaris Jackson with ruining their '07 playoff bid. Last season Jackson completed only 58.2% of his passes for 1,911-yards and only 9 touchdowns, compared to 12 interceptions. (Sounds like Vince Young). With only limited draft picks, the Vikings had to play it smart. With the second pick of the fifth round, the Vikings made a Booty call. Minnesota picked up a damn good development quarterback in USC's John David Booty. Last season Booty completed 63.2 % of his passes for 2,631-yards, and 23 touchdowns to only 10 interceptions (four of those interceptions were during the second-half of the Stanford game, playing with a broken finger). Going to the Vikings is an ideal situation for Booty, who should see a real chance to (eventually) contend for the starting spot. Booty handing off to Adrian Peterson? I like the sound of that...

NFL Draft: Seattle Seahawks Draft Lawrence Jackson

Kyle Bunch — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 16:32:05 -0400

No one seemed to know what to expect from Seattle's first round pick. There was talk of it being an offensive grab. A tight end, maybe. Others claimed it would be a defensive tackle. And some even speculated they would go for a quarterback. Well, the debate is now over. The Seattle Seahawks have added one more weapon to their defensive arsenal by drafting defensive end Lawrence Jackson with pick #28. Jackson had big stats at USC, including 60 tackles, 17 for loss and 10.5 sacks in 2007. Lawrence Jackson and Lofa Tatupu on the same field? Can you say...ouch? With his selection, Jackson rounds out four Trojans selected in the first round of the 2008 NFL draft. Check out SI.com to see the complete draft list.

NFL Draft: Atlanta Falcons Trade Up to Grab Sam Baker

Kyle Bunch — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 15:45:14 -0400

Play it again, Sam! The Atlanta Falcons found a Mike Vick replacement with #3 draft pick Matt Ryan out of Boston College. Now they just needed somebody to protect him. In a surprise bid, the Falcons traded up in order to draft USC tackle Sam Baker. In what has become already an offensive tackle heavy draft, Sam Baker was expected to go late-first to mid-second round. He was projected by many to be the 10th offensive tackle to go, but the Falcons saw his worth and drafted him at #21 overall, the 6th O-tackle to be selected. Some critics have already voiced their opposition to the deal. We at Trojanwire think this may have been the smartest move made by the Falcons management in a long time. Even at the 21st pick, Sam Baker's size and stability will be invaluable to the development of their offense.

2008 Bruins Are Losers Already

Kyle Bunch — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 14:28:14 -0400

Chris Dufresne, college football analyst for The LA Times, has been humming a tune recently. And any true Trojan that happens to hear the music will instantly know the lyrics. It goes a little something like this: "U...C...L...A - SUCKS!" That sweet music is evident in Dufrense's latest article titled UCLA football in need of a turnaround. And I quote: A visit to Thursday's spring practice was tellingly punctuated by the sight of quarterbacks Pat Cowan and Ben Olson leaving the field on the same golf cart. The team photographer, it seemed, missed a great opportunity to shoot the media guide cover. For those of you who haven't heard, both UCLA's top quarterbacks were injured in non-contact drills on Thursday. It's Cowan's knee. It's Olson's ankle. With UCLA's scrimmage at the Rose Bowl is this Saturday, this leaves junior transfer QB Kevin Craft to play with himself. Which is pretty much what the entire Bruin team would have been doing anyway.

Sam Baker Gets it Done

Kyle Bunch — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:42:37 -0400

It has been said that the Trojans who decided to stay on for their 2007 Senior seasons have improved their draft stock remarkably. It has been said their growth in maturity and skill will make the likes of Ellis, Rivers, and Davis millions extra in contract deals.

Then there's the footnote: except for Sam Baker.

Out of all the Trojans that have risen in the pre-draft rankings, offensive left-tackle Sam Baker seems to be the only one that's fallen. That dip is likely due to a hamstring injury that hampered progress his senior season, and some slow 40-times clocked at USC's Pro Day. But despite the drop, Stewart Mandel writes on SI.com, "Baker is the most underrated o-lineman in the draft."

Let's see here. Baker was the starting left tackle—most important position on the line—for the most dominant program in the country for four straight years...Based purely on Baker's college track record, I assumed he would be one of, if not the top, tackle on the board; instead, I see he's barely in the top 10.

Baker reportedly did not test well at USC's Pro Day, which means, of course, that those four years never happened. Still, Baker's likely to go late-first to early second round. Nonetheless, a drop of millions has got to get to him, right? So does National Championship winner and three-time first team, All-American Sam Baker regret coming back for his senior season?

USC, Paola Moreno Win Pac-10 Golf Titles

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 17:36:24 -0400

USC girls like it on top. For the first time since 1989 the Women of Troy finished on top of the Pac-10. The No. 3 USC Trojans closed out the final day of the 2008 Pac-10 Women's Golf Championships as #1, walloping second-place-finish UCLA by 26 strokes. Meanwhile, it was a double win for USC senior Paola Moreno who took home the championship's individual crown, USC's third. But the other Trojan women weren't far off. All five of USC's players finished in the competition's top eight spots. As reported on CSTV.com: "When I made the last putt, I had no idea I won..." said Moreno."It's great to win as a team. That's the big part. To win individually is a bonus. I'm really happy and proud of the team." And the win is a big accomplishment for the University as well. Five Lexus Gauntlet point were awarded to the Trojans for the win. USC now leads the cross-town rivalry against the Bruins, 52.5-37.5 on the season. The Trojans need only five more points to reclaim the trophy for their own. And if you want a bad-ass Trojan golf cart bag like the one seen above, be sure to follow this link to the College Golf Store

OJ Simpson: The Next Apprentice?

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:12:06 -0400

OJ Simpson might just find himself in the national spotlight again, this time in front of another sort of judge all together. This time the judge, and the jury, will be...The Trump. As reported in the NY Post Gossip Column, OJ Simpson had contacted Trump/NBC about becoming a contestant on the next Celebrity Apprentice. "Simpson really wants to do it. Trump and NBC are thinking about it, but are being very cautious," a source was quoted as saying on the NY Post's Gossip Page Six. "There's a certain amount of heat associated with Simpson." Will Simpson be the next Trump protoge? Or will the notion simply be "fired" by the network? Stay Tuned...

USC's Nike Camp: Trojan Loaded

Kyle Bunch — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 14:53:18 -0400

USC commits Barkley and Presley at USC Nike Camp, Tom Hauck People might tell you differently, but the truth is Nike's football camps are to college, as the NFL combine is to the pros. Okay, maybe it's not that extreme. Nike is no longer allowed to test its athletes at the events. There's no longer any 40-times or bench press at the events (Nike holds separate events for test scores). And although negative performance might not hurt you as badly as it would at the combine, a fantastic performance at a Nike camp could grab you the national attention, press and the scholarship offers that come along with it. And at USC's Nike Camp this past Sunday there were some very strong performances. Not surprisingly, it was the number, size and skill of the '09 USC commits that seemed to leave the biggest impression.

Steve Smith to Dwayne Jarrett: The Party's Over

Kyle Bunch — Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:10:27 -0400

Carolina receiver Dwayne Jarrett has not yet developed into a shadow of the receiver he was at USC. While the other half of his dynamic duo, Giants receiver Steve Smith, is flourishing in the NFL - Jarrett has struggled to adapt to Carolina's playbook, never started a game, and has only 6 catches for 73 yards in his one-year pro career.

And his personal life is going just about as well. When Dwayne Jarrett wrecked his brand new Beemer at the start of last season, everyone seemed to let bygones be bygones. Now Jarrett's been arrested for a DUI and it seems people are starting to take notice. People like 3X pro bowler and fellow Panthers receiver Steve Smith.

High Scoring Huddle: Big Day for Sanchez, Corp, Galippo, Patterson

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 19:49:06 -0400

Sanchez at the helm of the Cardinal team. Image via USCfootball.com Some 17,000 USC fans showed up at Saturday morning's Trojan Huddle, and what a game it was. The 97-play scrimmage continued all the way into double-overtime, culminating with backups Mustain & Corp's White team win over (primarily) Sanchez' Cardinal club, 39-36. Despite the loss, Sanchez came out a winner, playing his entire game against a solid first team defense that included the likes of Rey Maualuga, Brian Cushing and Taylor Mays. Redshirt junior and heir-apparent to USC's coveted QB position, Mark Sanchez hit a commendable 16 of 24 for 203 yards and three touchdowns, two on short passes to both running back CJ Gable and tight end Rhett Ellison, and one amazing 37-yard TD strike to receiver/returner Ronald Johnson in the corner of the endzone. That said, Sanchez had the only interception of the game, on an ill-rehearsed "what the hell" flea-flicker pass that landed right in the hands of linebacker Luthur Brown. Still the fact they even attempted it seemed reminiscent of the football-trickery sometimes employed by the likes of Leinart, Bush and Jarrett. But the surprises weren't over there...as the Trojan Huddle progressed it became clear it was going to be a big day for the (not so) little guys.

USC Football: Trojan Huddle Tomorrow

Kyle Bunch — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 10:55:20 -0400

Is it exciting? 2007, Washington and Hazelton, USC Sports Talk For the Trojan faithful, the culmination of Spring practice is marked by the Trojan Huddle, USC's never-disappointing Spring Game. If you want to see Mark vs. Mitch firsthand, or what all the Allen Bradford hype is really about, or if Damian Williams really is USC's receiving savior...if you've asked yourself any or all of these questions, then you should get up early and mosey over to Coliseum. The gates open at 10am and the cost is $10 bucks. I know it's Saturday, and I know it's early. But think of it as practice for the football season. You've probably tailgated earlier than that before. I know I've been on the wrong end of a Trojan beer-bong before 8am...so suck it up. Not only do you get to see the game with 20,000 of your closest Trojan friends, which means you get a good seat NO MATTER WHAT. For all of you who have season tickets some 92 rows up, this is your chance to see the players without binoculars. Not to mention there's also the Trojan Fan Fest, which means bring a camera -- there's a chance for player autographs, games and giveaways. Plus chances to buy Trojan merchandise. If you're thinking about going, Adam Rose of the LA Times blog "All Things Trojan" put together a Fan Guide to the Huddle that's really worth checking out. Date: 4/19/08 Place: LA Coliseum Time: Gates open @10AM, Kickoff @ 11:00AM Cost: 10$, Kids under 12 FREE

The US(C) Army All American Bowl

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 17:52:40 -0400

More than a year before they're set to graduate their respective high schools and join the Trojan team, five future USC football stars will get an early chance to take the field together. Call it practice for the years to come. As according to Rivals, five USC commits are now on the West's roster for the 2009 US Army All-American Bowl, which showcases the nation's top high-school talent. The to-be-Trojans will include 5-star linebacker Votanze Burfict, receiver Randall Carroll (4-stars), athlete Patrick Hall (4) and safeties Chris Metcalf(4) and T.J. McDonald(4). An exciting prospect to see, Fresno Edison's McDonald said he is working on getting all the Trojan commitments together for their official U.S. Army jersey presentation ceremony. "It'd be really cool to do it all together...We thought since we were going to be teammates in the future and teammates in the game, that we should do it all as a team." The game is scheduled for January 3rd, 2009. And the "SC Boys" are pumped to win back the title for the West. *Thanks Amy

USC Football: Mark Sanchez Named Starter

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 10:24:22 -0400

Image from TributetoTroy.com The Trojans like to go into Summer with an established leader and this year is no different. As reported on SI.com, Pete Carroll announced his decision before Tuesday's practice: Junior Mark Sanchez is the man. The LA Times elaborated on the story, quoting Carroll as saying: "The advantage that Mark has had by being around . . . just gives him a decisive advantage and he was able to come out here and battle and throw the ball well and play with confidence and give himself the spot." In 2007 Sanchez took a big leap when Booty went down with a broken finger, and Sanchez started the next three games against Arizona, Notre Dame and a very good Dennis Dixon Oregon team. During the season he went 69 of 114 for 695 yards, 7 touchdowns and 5 interceptions. Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian met with backup quarterbacks Mustain and Corp to inform them of the decision.

USC is the Team of the Decade

Kyle Bunch — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 18:29:59 -0400

Image by Jonny07Nike, Photobucket.com Pete Fiutak, college football analyst on College Football News, Scout and FoxSports.com was recently asked to pick his college football Team of the Decade. And low and behold, this is how the football-guru answered: "...I'd have to say USC. Six straight double-digit win seasons, 70 wins over that span, one national title and an AP title. The biggest selling point is a run of six straight BCS games and an all-timer of a performance from Vince Young needed to keep it from being six for six with two national championships." Yes, Pete Carroll's Trojans topped Fiutak's list, beating out LSU and Ohio State for the team of the decade. He forgot to mention USC's 6-straight Pac-10 titles and the two Heismans, but we'll forgive him.

Joe McKnight Ineligible for Spring

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 08:39:04 -0400

Oh no, Joe! Where did you go? Don't expect to see sophomore tailback phenomenon Joe McKnight strutting his stuff any more this spring. You won't find him breaking tackles in practice. You won't see him at the Trojan Huddle, twisting, cutting and dancing up the sidelines.

That's because Joe McKnight is academically ineligible for the remaining week of spring after dropping a class, leaving him below the required amount of 12 academic units. As reported on the LA Times Blog, Carroll had this to say of McKnight's situation:

"I'm disappointed, but it was coming and he didn't take care of business in one particular class that got him,"

Asked if he would use McKnight as an example, Carroll said, "It's about as obvious an example as you can get." But worry not Trojan faithful. This setback should have no effect on McKnight's eligibility to play come fall.

In fact, the action of dropping the class was taken to ensure McKnight would maintain a decent enough GPA so that he wouldn't be in trouble come football season. Now, hopefully the other backs will seize this opportunity to take center stage for a while. In this game, with this team especially, you have to take every chance you get to prove yourself. Look for Stafon Johnson, Allen Bradford, CJ Gable, Broderick Green, and Marc Tyler at the Huddle (and in that order).

Keith Rivers and Thomas Williams: USC is LB-U

Kyle Bunch — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 07:54:45 -0400

Forget Tailback-U. According to linebackers Keith Rivers and Thomas Williams, USC is the new LB-U.

Just take one look at 12-time Pro Bowler Junior Seau, two-time Pro Bowl, three-time Super Bowl Champ Willie McGinnest, or three-time Pro Bowler Lofa Tatupu. Not to mention the likes of Richard Wood, Jack Del Rio, and Chris Claiborne.

And now, with Rivers and Williams heading out to the NFL, and the beast Maualuga to follow in a year, USC looks like the spot to be for top LB-talent.

But as these two humble guys will tell you, it's not just about the raw talent...it's how you mold it. And USC LB Coach Ken Norton Jr., their "father away from home," has helped shape Tatupu, Rivers, Williams, and Maualuga into the players, and people, they are today.

USC Is a Top-10 Dream College

Kyle Bunch — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:22:34 -0400

The nation's premier college ranking service, the Princeton Review, recently released the results of its fifth annual College Hopes and Worries Survey.

8,776 college applicants were asked what their ideal college would be if acceptance and cost were no concern.

USC came out ninth in the 2008 top-10 list of dream colleges. So it's true, what Mario Danelo used to say: "Living the Dream."

For a good cross-section of America, USC students get the opportunity to live the dream each and every day.

The top 10 dream colleges, as according to the Princeton Review list, are

1. Harvard

2. Stanford

3. Princeton

4. New York University

5. Yale

6. Brown

7. Columbia

8. Cornell

9. USC

10. (and far-far away at very last place) [f]UCLA.

USC's Amy Rodriguez gets USA to Beijing

Kyle Bunch — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 17:39:50 -0400

Rodriguez [12] celebrates after scoring on UCLA during the 2007 NCAA women's soccer semi-finals. (David J Phillip, AP) U

SC junior forward Amy Rodriguez has helped the US Women's soccer team secure a berth in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China. Rodriguez was a regular facet on Team USA's roster throughout the past three international tournaments, and yesterday helped them to win their semifinal match at the Olympic Qualification Tournament in Juarez Mexico. According to CSTV.com, reaching the finals vs Canada on April 12th has secured the US Team a trip to the Olympic games. Rodriguez - USC's top scorer last season when the Trojans claimed the 2007 NCAA Championship - was invited to train with the U.S. full national team in December...She has since accumulated nine more caps along with three international goals while competing at the Four Nations Tournament in China, the Algarve Cup in Portugal and the current CONCACAF Olympic Qualification Tournament in Mexico. It is the first time the women's Canadian team has qualified since Women's soccer first entered Olympic competition in 1996. It is the fourth trip for the United States team, who also qualified in '96, '00 and 2004.

OJ Mayo Moves One Step Closer to NBA

Kyle Bunch — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:27:46 -0400

Mayo and Floyd Speak with Press, August 2007 (Nick Ut, AP) OJ Mayo has not yet physically moved past the point of no return. That happens once he signs an agent.

But it seems clear the freshman phenomenon has already made up his mind. He reportedly announced his decision to Tim Floyd and the USC athletic department earlier today.

Reporter Scott Wolf published this statement by OJ Mayo on The Daily Breeze: "I am so thankful for the fans and alumni at USC and around the nation that have been so supportive of me and my teammates throughout the season. I'd like to express my appreciation to my coaches and teammates for their support in one of the most important decisions I've ever made. I will be entering the 2008 NBA draft. I am going to finish the semester here at USC and then focus on preparing for the NBA draft."

"Attending USC has been such a great experience for me and has really helped prepare me for my next step in life."

Not one for teary-eyed goodbyes, Tim Floyd responded with this short statement: "This comes as no surprise. We are appreciative of everything O.J. did for all of us the year he was with us. We wish him well. I have no doubt that he will be a great professional."

OJ, it's been real fun to watch. Time to Fight On at the next level.