Bleacher Report - Riverside

USC-UCLA: Has the Rivalry Lost Its Luster?

Paul Peszko — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:02:08 -0500

For USC and UCLA fans, this year’s rivalry game is what it is—the biggest game on the schedule. No matter if the teams are 11-0 or 0-11, the school that loses must live with that for an entire year.

It’s one thing to live with when your rival is across the state. It’s quite another when your rival is just across town.

If you recall the 13-9 UCLA victory a few years back that prevented USC from playing in the national championship game, Bruin fans have reminded Trojan fans of that loss for these past four years.

It didn’t matter that USC had also lost to Oregon State earlier in that season. As far as wins and losses went, both losses held equal weight. But it was the UCLA loss that USC players and fans could not live down.

It turned UCLA defensive coordinator DeWayne Walker into a hero and co-offensive coordinators at USC, Lane Kiffin and Steve Sarkisian along with quarterback John David Booty into instant goats.

The fact that USC was the Pac-10 champion and defeated Michigan in the Rose Bowl that season did little to assuage the upset loss to rival UCLA.

Even though Booty had a terrific Rose Bowl, for the next 12 months fans were beseeching Pete Carroll to replace him with Mark Sanchez.

Kiffin and Sarkisian couldn’t escape the fans’ ire either, who were clamoring for their removal as well.

But that was then, this is now. Even though neither team can win the Pac-10 or is in line for a BCS bowl, the game still matters to fans of both schools.

This is the first time in eight years that this game has neither Pac-10 Championship nor BCS implications.

So, what about fans of other schools and conferences? Other Pac-10 fans, Big Ten fans, SEC fans, college football fans in general? Has this game lost its luster for you? Are you still going to tune in and watch it Saturday evening?

I would like to hear from fans of other schools in the Pac-10 and from other conferences across the nation. Tell me how you feel about this year’s game between the Trojans and the Bruins.

As for USC and UCLA fans, I would like to hear your thoughts on the BCS matchups. Especially USC fans, have all the BCS ratings and possible BCS bowl matchups lost their luster for you?

Or are you following them with as much interest as you have in the recent past? What intrigues you about this year’s top ten standings and the BCS bowls? What disinterests you?

Have you closed the book on this year and are thinking about next season? I’d like to know your thoughts.

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Cuban Missile Crisis? The Los Angeles Dodgers Must Reach Out to Mark Cuban

PJ Ross — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:55:15 -0500

The Los Angeles Dodgers are rapidly approaching a breaking point within the front office.

Yesterday, I detailed how Frank McCourt's diminishing bank account could have a pulverizing effect on the Dodgers' organization.

Which brings me to Mark Cuban, the possible savior for the future of the club.

Cuban was rumored to be interested in purchasing the Dodgers about two weeks ago,but just one day after the initial report was made about his interest, the Dallas Morning News ran a story that adamantly denied his desire to buy the Dodgers .

Considering Frank's financial situation and the pending divorce settlement, he needs to recruit Cuban as the future owner of the team.

The caveat issued by Cuban is that he must be able to purchase a controlling share of the team.

Some reports, including the one denying Cuban's interest in the Dodgers, may say he doesn't want to add another team to his role call.

I don't believe it for one second.

He already lost out in his bid for the Chicago Cubs, but Cuban claims that, "more [Dodger fans] than I can count," have asked him to buy the team.

He also showed interest back in 2005 to purchase the his hometown Pittsburgh Penguins, but the deal never materialized.

The bottom line is that he wants another team, and it's just a matter of time before he gets one. Why not make it the Dodgers?

Cuban, although excessively involved and sometimes over the top with his antics involving his Dallas Mavericks , is an absolute top notch owner.

The man has a deep-seeded passion for sports, and while that occasionally manifests in some crazed outburst by Cuban, it also provides the team with unlimited resources to achieve success.

He understands the bigger picture, something that the McCourt's are apparently having difficulty doing, and Cuban is willing to do whatever it takes to take a team to the top.

It's evidenced by how Cuban bought a majority share of the Mavericks in 2000 and took over a team that had a franchise winning percentage of around 40 percent. Since then, the team has won at almost a 70 percent clip, and also made it to the NBA Finals for the first time in 2006.

Not bad for an internet billionaire if you ask me.

He also dominates in the business world, a trait that's necessary in a cut-throat industry such as professional sports.

While McCourt has just $1.2 million in his checking account, Cuban is estimated to be worth $2.3 billion by Forbes Magazine , and I can guarantee this much—you won't find Cuban's bank account dwindling down to $167,000 anytime soon.

There was also something else that came to my mind.

Around the same time as the Cuban rumors arose, Jamie McCourt had supposedly secured financial backing to buyout Frank from his ownership of the Dodgers.

This raises the question, was Cuban her financial backer?

Now I can't stress this enough—the team is not for a sale at this time, and the situation is not completely ideal for Cuban when looking at it as strictly an investment opportunity.

He wants to be able to buyout a majority shareholder and gain control of the team, but the McCourt's are the only people with shares of the club. In order for Cuban to gain ownership he would have to buyout the $800 million franchise.

But pending the outcome of the McCourt divorce, Frank could very easily be forced into selling the team to a third party in order to meet the settlement.

One thing to keep in mind is that before Cuban put in his bid for the Cubs, he announced that he wouldn't comment on buying the team when it wasn't officially for sale.

Sound familiar?

Cuban clearly has a desire to expand his portfolio into the realm of Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers situation is developing into the perfect fit for the eccentric, but always successful, businessman.

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LA Confidential: Dodgers Owner Frank McCourt Is Running Out of Money

PJ Ross — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 15:23:02 -0500

I was foolishly under the impression that things couldn’t get any murkier for the Los Angeles Dodgers front office.

Then I came across a startling article in the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday that claims Dodgers owner Frank McCourt is running out of money.

Uh-oh.

The piece, written by John Emshwiller, details some very disturbing facts that have emerged from the divorce papers filed between Frank, the team owner, and his soon-to-be ex-wife Jamie, former Dodgers CEO.

To quickly summarize what has happened up until this point, the heart of the divorce hearings will be to decide whether or not Frank is the sole owner of the team, a claim that Jamie argues is completely false.

She insists that they have joint ownership of the club, valued at $800 million, and is entitled to half of the club and its assets.

Jamie is fighting to gain back that lost share because Frank fired her shortly over a month ago, citing insubordination—in the form of an alleged affair with a personal security assistant—and her insufficient performance in the front office.

A judge has already upheld her dismissal from the club, and the couple is waiting for what will be an ugly showdown during their court proceedings in which a Los Angeles county court will divide the couple's assets.

Taking things back to the Wall Street Journal article, the most shocking thing revelation is how Frank is “essentially living from paycheck-to-paycheck” and only has $1.2 million of cash assets at his disposal.

It even goes so far as to say his liquid assets dropped as low as $167,000 recently after making a $700,000 payment to his wife for her expenses.

That may seem like a hefty sum of cash to most people, but for the owner of a professional sports team it amounts to merely pennies.

Additionally, Jamie says that Frank is behind on mortgage payments—which started as high as $28 million to pay off two homes in Malibu valued at $45 million total.

Jamie currently has more accessible liquid assets than Frank, and she has offered to buy the team from him outright, but he insists that it’s not for sale.

The current unrest highlights worries that have been present ever since the McCourts bought the team in 2004.

There have always been lingering questions as to how much money Frank really has in his name and if his funds are enough to fully support the organization.

Whatever the case may be, the bottom line is that these new revelations could have damning implications for the Boys in Blue.

The focus of the baseball world will now be thrust upon the impact that the McCourt divorce will have on one of the most storied franchises in all of sports.

Not only does it leave the future in doubt, but it also raises questions about recent transactions and the effect the upcoming divorce may have had on them.

Clearly, both Frank and Jamie saw this divorce coming, because we all know that 700 sheets of divorce papers don’t just come out of nowhere.

We also already know that at the present time, the organization is making an attempt to be financially responsible, which has already resulted in the team exiting bidding for John Lackey despite the glaring need for a top-end starting pitcher.

So is it possible that the pending divorce case prevented the Dodgers from trading for Cliff Lee or Roy Halladay at the trading deadline?

I think the answer is most definitely yes.

What a shame it is—that the Dodgers could have had their ace if Frank and Jamie McCourt could have just figured out their personal matters.

More worrisome is the litany of young players headed to arbitration in the next two years, including Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, Chad Billingsley, and Clayton Kershaw.

From this point forward, it appears that Frank is on a collision course with being forced to sell the team, as demonstrated last year when we saw the San Diego Padres owner sell the team as a result of a nasty divorce.

A change of ownership would be a gigantic issue, especially with so many players headed to arbitration, and the team could face a scenario where they lose most of the young core of this top-end team.

Whether Frank has to sell his share of the team to Jamie, or to a third party, the ownership flux in Los Angeles will be a colossal detriment to the Dodgers' title hopes.

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UCLA-USC Preview: A Crosstown War Renewed

Derek Hart — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:11:52 -0500

For many football fans in America's second largest city, this is the only game that matters.

This Saturday at the Coliseum, the UCLA Bruins will meet their crosstown enemies, the USC Trojans, for the 79th time in a clash that may not have Rose Bowl implications but will still mean much to everyone on both sides.

In Los Angeles, bragging rights between these two institutions are very important—especially since Bruin and Trojan students, fans, and alumni often grow up together, live in the same neighborhoods, work together, marry each other, and even share the same parentage.

Considering that the schools are just over 10 miles apart, what else would you expect?

L.A. is turned into a blue and red Verona around this time; the Bruins and Trojans may as well be the Montagues and the Capulets, the way their fanbases feel about each other.

Though USC (7-3, 4-3 in the Pac-10 Conference) leads the all-time series 43-28 with seven ties, has won nine out of the last 10 games between the teams, and is a 13-point favorite, UCLA (6-5, 3-5 in the Pac-10) has a good shot at beating the Trojans and taking back the Victory Bell, which is awarded to the winner.

The Bruins have won their last three games after a month-long swoon, albeit against subpar teams, while the Men of Troy are 1-2 over that same span, with both losses being blowouts.

UCLA's defense has been opportunistic, causing 27 turnovers this season and having a turnover margin of plus-eight, which leads the conference. Brian Price has lived up to his hype at defensive tackle, getting seven sacks to lead the Bruins.

Rahim Moore is not only the country's interception leader with nine, he also has more picks than USC's entire team; UCLA has 17 INTs overall.

The Bruin offense has been respectable of late, as Kevin Prince has thrown for over 300 yards in three out of the past four games. Nelson Rosario has been a go-to guy at wide receiver, averaging 18.3 yards per catch, and Chane Moline has been a bull in the backfield.

As for the kickers, the Trojans better pray that this contest doesn't come down to field goals, because if it does, UCLA will win.

The Bruins' Kai Forbath has 26 field goals to lead the NCAA and is an odds-on favorite for All-American honors, while his USC counterpart, Jordan Congdon, has a mere 10, less than half of Forbath's total.

It's safe to say that Southern Cal has not met their expectations in 2009; for the first time in seven years, they will not be Pac-10 champs or go to a BCS bowl game.

However, coming off their 55-21 beatdown at the hands of Stanford in their last game, coach Pete Carroll's team will undoubtedly come out on Saturday motivated, focused, and just plain ticked off; what better way to redeem oneself than to crush your crosstown enemy?

I certainly don't expect UCLA to put up 55 points on USC.

Joe McKnight has been good at running back for Troy, as he is on the verge of 1,000 yards for the season with five touchdowns. Being as quick as he is, he presents a concern for Bruin coach Rick Neuheisel.

'SC's defensive front, led by Everson Griffen's eight sacks and Nick Perry's seven, will likewise be a challenge for a UCLA offensive line that is better than it was in 2008 but is still feeling its way a bit.

After starting off strong, quarterback Matt Barkley has played exactly like what he is: a true freshman.

His 10 interceptions, including a pick-six against Stanford in his last outing, are more than all of the Bruin signal callers combined. He will be a star in the future, but right now the former five-star recruit is suffering some growing pains.

Barkley will no doubt be ecstatic to see wide receiver Damian Williams return after suffering a high ankle sprain. He is the main Trojan threat, averaging 15.3 yards a catch with five TDs.

As such, here's what the keys to a Bruin victory over USC will be...

1. Cut out the penalties!

UCLA had far too many yellow flags in their last game against Arizona State: 11 for 100 yards, including three personal fouls. If they do that against the Trojans, trouble will result, because 'SC will definitely take advantage.

2. The offense needs to do better in the red zone.

Though the Bruins did well in moving the ball against a good ASU defense, they only got three field goals to show for it.

That will not be good enough in the Coliseum.

It is essential for UCLA to get seven points when inside the 20 and not settle for three points.

3. The Bruin defense must create havoc in USC's backfield and force turnovers.

Price, Datone Jones, Jerry Siewierski, and Korey Bosworth need to be beasts against the Trojans' experienced O-line and not give Barkley any time to throw.

Reggie Carter, Kyle Bosworth, and Akeem Ayers must make plays, and a few INTs by Moore or Alterraun Verner, or both, would be extremely nice.

If the Bruins do those three things, their chances of winning will be very good.

Being that this crosstown battle is starting at 7:00 local time, the first UCLA-USC night game in 30 years, and both teams are wearing their home jerseys for the second straight year, it promises to be good prime time entertainment—at least on the West Coast.

Just like the previous 78 Bruin-Trojan clashes.

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Bolts' Remaining Schedule Looking Tougher

AP Wilcox — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:12:44 -0500

Five weeks ago, I was thinking how nice it was going to be for the San Diego Chargers after Week 11. Now that they are here, things are looking a little tougher.

The once discounted Chiefs are now looking to tack on six more wins to their current two-game streak and snatch up the last wild-card spot for the playoffs.

Well, maybe not, but they are starting to put things together and are not the walkover that San Diego must have thought they'd be after trouncing them in their last meeting.

Just ask the Steelers. It looks like they overlooked the Chiefs and their playoff hopes now bare the brunt of that mistake.

And what about Cleveland? Well, let's just hope the Chargers don't get too cocky. Let's stick to the tried and true, "any team can beat any team on any given Sunday" rule of thumb with them.

Dallas is a little bit more of an enigma. They play with a lack of poise that belies their 7-3 record.

Even though Dallas is barely beating inferior opponents, they are intent on making the playoffs and the Chargers will play them in the new and improved Texas Stadium. Let's hope that the Bolts aren't too awestruck and that Kaeding and Scifres don't bounce anything off the big screen.

As for Cincinnati, could their recent loss at the hands of the lowly Raiders be a sign of things to come? Could this be the beginning of a spiral back to reality such as Denver is experiencing?

Let's not count on it. This is the team that swept four division matches from Baltimore and Pittsburgh. Both of which beat San Diego earlier this season.

Finally there's Tennessee and Washington. Both of these teams appeared to be walkovers several weeks ago, but both of them have picked up their games since then.

Things are shaping up for San Diego to have a first round bye and home field advantage until at least the AFC Championship game. They can beat every team left on their schedule, but not if they get caught looking to the next game or looking to the playoffs.

Right now, they are the masters of their own destiny.

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Just Saying, Is All... | Why I'm Thankful for Kobe Bryant

Ryan Alberti — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 09:16:27 -0500

The most authentic Pilgrim is the one who never stops sailing.

Kobe Bryant is a hopeless perfectionist. He should also be an honorary Puritan. When our forefathers came ashore at Plymouth Rock, they sowed the seeds of history’s mightiest civilization—which would have been better news if they’d taught their children how to drop anchor and savor the harvest.

Satisfaction means relishing the new ring on your finger.

Success, on the other hand, means reaching for the next rung on the ladder.

I’m not suggesting that Bryant has anything left to prove. His résumé speaks for itself, and his passion for the game is beyond question. But it’s precisely that passion which prevents him from basking in his own glory. In a league where complacency so often breeds mediocrity, the best players are those who refuse to settle for mere excellence.

You can’t always get what you really want.

You can’t ever find what you really seek.

If there’s a lesson in Kobe’s questing, it’s simply that the pursuit of happiness is an endless trip.

NBA legends aren’t conditioned for contentment. Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird—they were pathological champions, competitors whose most lasting peace came in the conflict of competition. The implication, of course, is that restive longing can be its own reward. Critics of American culture will argue that Bryant’s inherited inquietude is symptomatic of a national disease. I’d counter that national dis-ease is the single most important source of this country’s resilient health.

It’s good to count your blessings.

It’s better to lick your chops.

Kobe may go to bed hungry on this and every other Thanksgiving, but at least his ravenous dreams will always whet his appetite.

Satiation is the enemy of human progress. Food in the stomach inclines a man to old habits; fire in the belly drives him on to New Worlds. I’m thankful for Kobe Bryant because he’s as American as ambition and apple pie, and because we all ought to be more appreciative of those cravings that won’t stay quenched. Every pilgrimage is born with a prayer for blissful days in the future. The one that’s still vital after almost four centuries owes its endurance to the curse of restless nights in the present.

Scott Fitzgerald never sat courtside at Staples Center, but he did know a thing or two about the plight of chronic yearners:

Kobe believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter—to-morrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther. . . . And one fine morning—

Which has been the wind in the sails of every American ship since the Mayflower.

Because the Home of the Brave will forever be a bit further upstream, and anyone who argues for yielding to the current is either OD'd on tryptophan or only just saying, is all...

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“MLS Team America” Could It Work?

Bob Madaio — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:14:44 -0500

Yanks-Abroad is a great site. I read it near religiously. You should too.

The name alone, however, suggests its latent bias—one toward a preference for US players that are playing abroad, and a (general) disinterest in MLS. That made Brent Latham’s new Yanks Abroad piece “PHILLY..GO AMERICAN!” such a peculiar and interesting one. It is a worthy read, so I won’t recap it here, but needless to say he makes an interesting argument that the Philadelphia Union has a unique opportunity to go 100 percent American with its roster—and that it might actually be a good idea.

A thought provoking idea, for sure, but I am struggling with some of the surrounding analysis. Here are some themes or points Brent made that trouble me a bit.

The fact that more US players leading the scoring charts would “…fight a trend that threatens to make it less relevant on the international soccer scene.”

This depends on how you define international soccer “relevance”. I could see a few ways to build “relevance”:

A) MLS clubs start beating International club teams from top-leagues in something that matters,

B) MLS clubs compete for, or sign players who are respected/desired by European clubs or

C) MLS provides talent to International clubs that succeed in the best leagues.

MLS Clubs do not do “A” very frequently. Superliga—though entertaining—is a weak competition in terms of international respect—at least outside of Mexico. Well, perhaps within Mexico too... The MLS All Star Game? Good fun. But not “real” by any stretch of the imagination.

I would say that “B” almost REQUIRES the player to be an International, since any American player “coming home” provides a built-in excuse for the Euro’s to say he’s headed to MLS for “non-sporting reasons”. And for relevance, to me it is hard to name four bigger things MLS has done lately than the additions of David Beckham, Freddie Ljungberg, Cuauhtemoc Blanco, and perhaps Guillermo Barros Schelotto (Blanco might only add Mexican respect, and GBS may only add South American credibility, but still...). These players came and played hard, but they were not able to dominate the league.

The “C” option is likely where we have more chance and history of “relevance” in the international soccer community. Providing talent to European or other top-tier international teams. However, I think it matters little to the “international soccer scene” if the players we are growing, showcasing and/or selling come from the USA, New Zealand, Trinidad and Tobago, or anywhere else.

MLS will be relevant if it is successful as a feeder system to them, not for where those players come from. There is a difference between US Soccer relevance and MLS relevance.

Another general theme is: While Europe is probably the best place for a young American creative talent to develop, they might be well served with more options in the USA.

I generally agree—the more options for American players, the better. I think the evidence is out on if/when there is a right time to jump to Europe—especially for “creative” players. So many of our promising US Players end up floundering post transfer (Eddie Johnson and Freddy Adu are easy examples.). Would Landon Donovan be better if he stayed in (or went back to) to Europe? Maybe.

The interesting thing I struggle with here though, isn’t that more MLS options for creative/offensive American players in MLS is a bad thing—surely not—but the suggestion that including international players alongside them stunts their growth. Yes, there are only so many positions on the field, thus limiting overall chances when there’s an experienced foreign international player.

However, I’d be curious to measure (impossible, of course) what difference Carlos Valderamma made on Steve Ralston’s game. Or what effect Guillermo Barros Schelotto is having on Eddie Gaven, or Robbie Rodgers? Etc. Etc.

Hey, there are other successful clubs that do this, why not in Philly?

Examples of Chivas Guadalajara and Athletic Bilbao are given to prove that an “all local” team can survive, or even thrive. The problem I see is that both Chivas and Athletic have a terrific feeder system, and development capability (or at least, I suspect so) by which they can source (grow? groom?) local talent. (Especially Athletic, since Chivas can “buy” good Mexican talent more easily than Athletic can “buy” good Basque talent.) MLS clubs' development and youth programs are nascent, to be kind, and far from reliable. This presents a significant hurdle since one American-only club will have trouble out-bidding others for American talent in MLS.

So I’m against this “All American Team” thing, right?

No, not at all. In fact, in “What is a ‘Chivas’ anyway?” I suggested that—in a very different direction than the go-America theme—maybe Chivas USA blew it when they gave up their ambitious All-Latino goal. Why not have a themed team?

Brent rightly calls out some risks—but leans heavily on the “marketing value” associated with “Team USA” as a saving grace. That, however, might be the biggest risk. Do US fans still need some convincing that American players are the headliners? David Beckham isn’t here just because he hits good crosses and free-kicks, now is he?

Marketability—as well as capability—would be key to building such a team. I suspect Freddy Adu (“Wunderkind comes Home”) is looking for playing time. Maybe Jermaine Jones (“Loves the USA so much he Dumped Germany!”) is interested?

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LA Kings: Ryan Smyth's Absence Exposes Bigger Problem

Gann Matsuda — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:17:11 -0500

LOS ANGELES AND INGLEWOOD, CA — A little over a week has passed since the Los Angeles Kings lost veteran left wing Ryan Smyth to that mysterious “upper body injury” and since then, they have lost to the Philadelphia Flyers and the Calgary Flames.

In both games, the Kings not only put in spotty efforts, but their offense sputtered without Smyth’s constant presence in front of opposing goaltenders and in his tenacious work along the boards and in the corners.

“What he does very well is his composure with the puck,” said head coach Terry Murray. “He handles it in pressure situations, makes the game look easy, slows the game down, takes the puck to the net, makes plays in the offensive zone. He can make something happen out of nothing and he has that mentality that it has to end up at the net.”

Indeed, that mentality, or the lack thereof without Smyth in the lineup, is like a black hole on the ice. But the Kings know they have to overcome his absence.

“He’s definitely going to be missed on the team,” said defenseman Drew Doughty. “He’s one of the best players in the league, but we’re going to have to learn to step it up that extra notch and try to replace what he does for us.”

“[Smyth is] one of the key guys on our team, but that doesn’t matter right now,” said center Anze Kopitar, who leads the National Hockey League in overall scoring with 33 points on fourteen goals and nineteen assists. “He’s going to be gone for a month. Somebody else is going to have to step up. We’re going to have to play hard without him and win games.”

“I’m going to come here, play hard and make everybody around me better,” added Kopitar. “We’re all going to miss him, but his injury isn’t going to be [healed] tomorrow. We just have to play and win.”

To be sure, Smyth has set an example and has been an inspiration for his teammates, who were producing well offensively. But without him, the Kings have scored x3just two goals in each of their last two games, while allowing a total of seven goals.

Although the Kings’ scoring woes caused by Smyth’s absence are easily apparent, what no one has been talking about is that the Kings were much better defensively last season when they allowed 2.76 goals per game (ranked 11th) and just 28.1 shots per game (ranked fourth).

Fast forward to this season and we find the Kings have allowed an average of 3.04 goals per game (ranked 25th) even though they are allowing just 26.2 shots per game (ranked second).

Given those numbers, the problem that stands out first is goaltending and it does not take a genius to see that Jonathan Quick is not on top of his game.

Last season, Quick rarely had an off night while earning a 21-18-2 record, with a .914 save percentage, a 2.48 goals-against average (GAA), and four shutouts.

But in 22 games this season, Quick has struggled, despite earning a 12-8-2 record. He has a poor .894 save percentage with a 2.79 GAA.

Quick is often not interested in talking about his struggles, perhaps because he is only 23 years old and is in just his second year in the league.

“All I’m thinking about [is the next game],” Quick said after his 3-2 loss to the Flyers on November 18. “I’ll take the next two days, look at some video and prepare.”

When asked about specific aspects of his game that he works on in practice, Quick did not seem to want to give out many details.

“We have a goalie coach, Bill Ranford,” Quick added. “I talk with him a couple of times a week and we work on stuff that needs to be worked on...the little things. Being as detailed as possible and doing the little things right. That makes the game a little bit easier.”

Even though Quick has not been the player he was last season, placing the blame squarely on his shoulders would be unfair, to say the least.

One thing that has been apparent since opening night is that the 2009-10 Kings are not nearly as good in their own zone as they were last season, especially in terms of their positioning and decision-making.

With Smyth out of the lineup, the Kings are no longer scoring goals in bunches, exposing their defensive weaknesses, which were immediately apparent against the Flyers.

“On those goals, I’d like to have them all back,” Murray lamented. “[They were the result of] misreads. In my view, we played well enough to win, but the Flyers capitalized on turnovers, mistakes, decisions that we made. We should’ve been better in our positioning.”

Indeed, it is not that the Kings are giving up a ton of shots. But they are back to giving up too many grade A scoring chances due to poor positioning, bad decisions and blatant mistakes.

“It was a game we’re going to look at as one where we gave it away,” Kopitar said after the loss to the Flyers. “I think we were playing decently, but those two breakdowns in the second period cost us two goals. When you’re behind, you’re chasing, and that [doesn’t work most of the time].”

“We were in the game, but we let them take it to us and gave them three easy goals,” Doughty said following the game against Philadelphia. “We weren’t bearing down in our own zone. It’s important. We watch video all the time on our own zone and we’re working on our defensive zone coverage all the time, It’s something we take pride in, so giving up those three goals was disappointing.”

Despite the fact that Murray has tried winger Alexander Frolov on the first line and will now give winger Teddy Purcell a look on that line, no one can replace Smyth’s tenacity and grit, especially in front of the opposition’s net. As such, if their offense continues to suffer, it becomes even more important for the Kings to clean up the problems in their own end.

“We’ve got to tighten up defensively,” said defenseman Matt Greene. “In this league, you’re not going to win games with the old run-and-gun—you’re not going to win championships. That’s something that needs to be addressed immediately, that commitment to defense and to taking pride in not giving up goals.”

“We just have to play with more confidence and make a commitment to defense,” added Greene. “We have to know our assignments. You have to know what you’re doing on the ice before you get out there. A lot of this game is read and react, but there’s a lot that’s structured, too, just knowing where you need to be. That’s what we have to get back to—knowing your job and doing it.”

Discipline in terms of playing within their system has also contributed to the Kings’ poor defensive coverage.

“Sometimes there are mental lapses out there,” Greene explained. “That’s what we have to eliminate so everyone’s on the same page, so you know where your partner is going to be or where you line mates are going to be. That’s how you play within your structure.”

Greene also defended Quick.

“You can’t rely on your goaltender to bail you out of every game,” Greene stressed. “Quick has been playing great for us. He’s stopping everything that he sees and it’s not the first one that’s going in on him. It’s the second or third one that guys are getting a whack at.”

“It’s our job defensively to be better in front of him,” Greene added. “We know he’s going to make the saves that he should and it’s our job to make sure that we don’t give up the ones that he shouldn’t.”

The Kings begin a quick, two-game road trip tonight and on Thursday in Edmonton and Vancouver, and are looking to right the ship quickly.

“I think the guys have it under control, with the leadership in the room and the guys are mature enough to realize we’ve had some problems in the last couple of games and that we can turn it around,” said Greene. “We’ll make a good effort to do this on this road trip and carry it on through.”

With the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States right around the corner, getting things turned around on this road trip would certainly be something the Kings would be very thankful for.

This story was originally published on Frozen Royalty, where you can find more in-depth coverage of the Los Angeles Kings and the NHL.

Read more Riverside news on BleacherReport.com

Twenty-One Teams Thankful for the BCS

Pete Misthaufen — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:57:22 -0500

The BCS yesterday officially gave up on 99 teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision. As such, there are only twenty-one possible teams that could receive one of the ten BCS slots. Schools not included in the list are now available to receive bowl bids, so the negotiations will be going like crazy to fill up the best spots. A couple of the teams may surprise college football fans. But there are a few things to remember about the BCS. First, it is all about money. Specifically, TV ratings. If a school has a reputation for bringing eyeballs to the TV sets, then it will get considered, even if the team has not played well this season. Given last year's disaster at the Orange Bowl (lowest rated BCS game ever), the powers that be want to avoid another bad draw. Second, it is all about money. Specifically, game attendance. Which teams can bring the fans that will spend the money. After all, the bowls were started originally for tourism purposes. So, a team that has failed to deliver previously will not get another chance. Again, last year's Orange Bowl is the best example of this problem, as thousands of tickets were unused and scalpers were trying to dump them for less than one dollar. Not exactly what the BCS wants. Third, no BCS bowl is going to take one for the team. These bowls are run by smart folks that understand the desire of the average fan for a playoff. While they would make a limited effort to placate outsiders, in the end, it goes back to TV ratings and attendance. So, let's look at the teams, especially the couple of surprises.

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Why Landon Donovan Going to Mexico's Club América Makes Sense

Eric Gomez — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:56:29 -0500

Cocky. Arrogant. Despicable.

Just a few of the choice words that Mexican fans have thrown Landon Donovan's way in the past decade.

Ever since the American's first experience against Mexico—an October 25, 2000 match in which he scored a goal—Donovan has been a perennial thorn in El Tri's side.

Despite only scoring four of his 42 international goals against them, they've all seemingly come at the worst possible times.

Case in point, his goal in 2002 was on the biggest possible stage, a World Cup. Donovan's header put the Americans up 2-0 and essentially deflated Mexico from any comeback.

The loss eliminated Mexico from the World Cup.

With Donovan being too good for MLS and yet failing in his attempts to excel in Europe, the 27-year-old midfielder's last chance at international relevance could very well come from the same country that professes a blatant hatred for him.

The perfect fit?

A team described as cocky, arrogant and despicable, among other things.

Club América of Mexico is a perennially polarizing figure.

Either completely adored or completely reviled, the yellow-clad Mexico City squad is one of the country's most successful.

Since the professional league was founded in 1943, the América Eagles have won a total of 21 domestic titles including league and cup championships, as well as eight international conquests.

They are one half of the country's most heated rivalry along with Chivas de Guadalajara, and are a common fixture in the Mexican postseason.

América, owned by Mexican television giant Televisa, also has a liberal spending policy able to attract the likes of Dirceu, Claudio López, Oscar Ruggeri, Iván Zamorano, Ilie Dumitrescu, Djalminha and Hugo Sánchez over the course of their history.

Thus, Donovan would be able to make a large sum of money without venturing too far out from his home country.

With the loss of Cuauhtémoc Blanco to the MLS and now to Veracruz, América are in search of a fiery leader with oodles of talent to direct the midfield. Donovan fits the bill.

Despite being a midfielder by trade, Donovan has more than 100 goals in his career, and is multi-functional, being equally adept to playing on the wing or towards the middle.

With a top striker like Salvador Cabañas prowling opposing boxes, Donovan would be a perfect addition to a midfield that already boasts Argentine international Daniel Montenegro.

The move would also benefit the U.S. men's national team, too.

Donovan's stellar record against Mexico has been tarnished somewhat by his inability to beat them at Estadio Azteca, El Tri's home stadium and a place where they've lost only once in a World Cup qualifying competition.

The Los Angeles Galaxy star has yet to score there.

By continually exposing Donovan to the harsh conditions that Azteca serves up (altitude and air contamination leading to extreme fatigue), Landon would no longer be a stranger to atmospheric adversity when playing against Mexico in future matches.

Finally, a move like this would revitalize Donovan's career, which has become stagnant. Even by losing the MLS Cup against Real Salt Lake this season, Landon has conquered the American scene.

With three league championships, six Player of the Year awards and being named to the All-Time MLS Best XI, Donovan has thoroughly conquered the league.

While former American stars such as Tab Ramos, Eric Wynalda and Marcelo Balboa have tried their luck in Mexico, none have left a truly lasting mark.

The possibility of adding to Mexico's most powerful club's trophy case, while making millions of dollars and winning some of the sport's most difficult fans?

Well, it wouldn't make Landon Donovan any less cocky.

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USC Football: The Five Worst Losses Of The Pete Carroll Era

Derek Hart — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:56:06 -0500

Very few college football programs have been as dominant as the USC Trojans this decade.

Among the accomplishments of Pete Carroll's cardinal and gold bunch:

Seven straight Pac-10 Conference titles.

Seven straight seasons with at least 11 wins.

Four straight Rose Bowls.

One and a half national championships (the 2003 crown was shared with LSU).

Losses tend to be magnified and more devastating with programs like USC's, because it costs the team more.

I thought I'd list what I consider the five defeats during Carroll's tenure at Southern Cal that were the most disastrous, the worst of the worst.

Here they are, in descending order...

5. Texas, 2006, 42-38: This BCS National Championship Game was one for the ages; it was certainly one of the best football games ever played.

At any level.

This clash had everything: Two dominant 12-0 teams that were ranked 1-2 in the nation all year, two Heisman Trophy winners in Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush, a Longhorn that should have won a Heisman in Vince Young, and the Trojans going for their second straight BCS crown in the friendly confines of the Rose Bowl.

USC's players and fans firmly believed that they would hoist the crystal football at the end of the night.

That was why it was so devastating when Young scrambled into the end zone for the winning touchdown, causing rich boosters (or so I've heard) to cry in the stadium tunnels.

To this day, Trojan fans remain angry at Carroll for having Bush on the sidelines for that huge fourth down play that would have sealed the win.

4. Oregon, 2009, 47-20: Going into this showdown at Eugene's Autzen Stadium, USC still had a chance at a Pac-10 championship and a BCS berth with a win over the Ducks.

They didn't even come close.

Largely thanks to quarterback Jeremiah Masoli, running back LaMichael James, and their raucous fans, Oregon took the Trojans to the proverbial woodshed.

My favorite fan sign from that night read, "Welcome To The Fall Of Troy".

As it turned out, that would come later. But it was a great sign all the same.

3. Stanford, 2007, 24-23: This contest in the Coliseum was supposed to be standard procedure, just another win for the Men of Troy.

The fact that Stanford was a 41 point underdog had something to do with that.

Imagine the shock felt by the cardinal and gold faithful when Tavita Pritchard threw the winning touchdown pass to Richard Sherman and stunned the sports world.

John David Booty throwing four interceptions while playing with a broken finger was a big factor in USC's loss to a Cardinal team that would end up going 4-8 that season.

I actually agree with those fans who say that if Mark Sanchez, Booty's backup at the time, had played, the Trojans would have won.

2. UCLA, 2006, 13-9: Being a UCLA alumnus and a passionate member of Bruin Nation, I consider this game one of my personal all-time favorites.

As a 23 point underdog, the Bruins were merely an OK team that year, facing a No.2 ranked USC squad that was playing for a spot in the BCS title game.

To say that UCLA's defense, led by Bruce Davis and Justin Hickman, played the game of their lives would be an understatement for the ages, but that's exactly what they did as they stuffed the Trojans' vaunted offense time after time.

Everyone in blue and gold recalls fondly Eric McNeal's interception of John David Booty with the game on the line, but it was Aaron Perez's 63 yard punt that won the game for the Bruins and killed 'SC's BCS hopes.

Not to mention taking city bragging rights for the first time in seven years.

And I had the utmost privilege of being there to see it.

OK folks, here's my choice for USC's worst loss under Pete Carroll:

1. Stanford, 2009, 55-21: The Trojans still had hopes of a Rose Bowl invitation entering this game.

It was Homecoming, and they dearly wanted to get revenge on a Cardinal team that scored perhaps college football's biggest upset ever two years before on that same Coliseum field.

Even though running back Toby Gerhart was making 'SC's defense look like a sieve, the game was within reach for three quarters, as the score was only 28-21 in Stanford's favor.

Then the fourth quarter happened.

For that game's last 15 minutes, it was like Mike Tyson fighting Miley Cyrus, as the Cardinal scored four unanswered touchdowns and ended up scoring the most points ever by a Trojan opponent.

It was a complete beatdown.

Since USC has had a football team for almost 130 years, that is definitely saying something. The Trojans were like a deer in the headlights as Stanford did whatever they wanted.

It was, to be sure, most humiliating for the Trojan family. So much so that out of a crowd of over 90,000, only around 25,000 remained by game's end.

To sum up, there is one lesson to be learned by all of this, despite what some USC students, alumni and fans would tell you:

No one is invincible or unbeatable.

Every team needs a bit of humility, and these five battles gave the University of Southern California's football program exactly that.

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A Clipper Thanksgiving-Hopegiving

Jose Salviati — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 12:38:45 -0500

I admit to never really grasping the concept of Thanksgiving growing up. As a kid I knew it had something to do with the pilgrims and Indians eating together and, much more important to me, it meant no school! Age however brings wisdom however and as I grew older I can to understand that Thanksgiving meant football! So, I did what ever self-respecting man does on the final Thursday of November, I started making a habit of over-eating and spending the day in front of the TV! After getting tired of watching the Lions go 0 for Thanksgiving I just ended up over-eating and over-sleeping. To me, it was Thanks-for-a-Day-to-Over-Indulge Day. Now, I get it. I get why George Washington designated special days for a national thanksgiving. Why Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday to be celebrated the last Thursday in November. I get it and I appreciate it. So, it is with this new-found appreciation for a national day dedicated to giving thanks that I present not just my personal Clipper related thanks, but my hopes for the team as well. Where thanks is about looking back and at the present -- hopes is about looking forward. The following are my Clipper Thanksgiving AND Hopegiving wishes for the season.

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Pivot Points: The LA Lakers' Bench Is the Weakest Link to a Superior Team

Hadarii Jones — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:33:34 -0500

If the game of professional basketball was played without the service of reserves, then the Los Angeles Lakers would be more dominant than they have been in the past three games.

As it is, the bench plays an integral role in the success of an NBA team and the Lakers' reserves have been the depths of night compared to the bright sunshine of the team's first five players.

Take away Lamar Odom and the Lakeshow's bench is the worst among all other contending teams in the league, and it's not like they are even close in that respect.

Call it the ultimate anomaly, because the Lakers may have the best starting five in all of basketball, yet they tend to become spectators as they watch the bench waste the benefits of their supreme performances.

For the third consecutive game Kobe Bryant and company have watched the reserves lose leads of 20-plus points and allow teams to creep back in and make the final score somewhat respectable.

Take last night, for instance. The Lakers totally dominated the smaller New York Knicks, grabbing an astounding 60 rebounds to the Knicks' 36, and taking a 21-point lead into the locker room at the intermission.

For all practical purposes the game should have been over as the lead ballooned to 25 points late in the third quarter and coach Phil Jackson finally called the dogs off and inserted the reserves into the game.

The Knicks immediately took advantage and were able to trim the lead to the final 10-point margin. The only portion of the game that the Lakers were outscored was the time that the reserves were on the court.

Odom was supposed to bring the punch that the bench had been missing in the absence of Pau Gasol, and he does. But he is basically a one-man show in desperate need of a compadre on the floor.

For those of you who feel I am being too studious and rigid in my analysis of Los Angeles, consider that the teams that the Lakers have defeated are not exactly the cream of the NBA's crop.

Of the three teams only the Oklahoma City Thunder have a winning record, while the Knicks are abysmal and the Chicago Bulls couldn't be considered much better.

So what happens when the Lakers are involved in a tight game and need to call on their reserves to maintain a close lead, or even worse, change the flow of momentum?

If the past three games are any indication, Jackson would be better off letting his starters play through fatigue rather than trusting the team's fortunes to his unflattering group of reserves.

It was previously understood that the Lakers' biggest weakness was their propensity to allow perimeter penetration from opposing guards. While that is still a concern, it's diminished with the return of Gasol.

If the Lakers are beaten on the perimeter, the next line of defense is the seven-foot combination of Gasol and Andrew Bynum, which is the perfect deterrence for perimeter penetration.

Ron Artest is a much better defender than the departed Trevor Ariza and he recognizes, unlike Ariza, the importance of staying with his man when the urge to rotate presents itself.

This cuts down on wide-open looks from the perimeter and, in essence, leaves a penetrating guard with nowhere to go once he is in the lane.

So the onus once again falls on the bench, and to borrow a quote, they are "The Weakest Link."

Coach Jackson seems to think so, and verbalized his concerns when he said that the 10-point victory left him feeling depressed because his team was unable to break the Knicks' spirit.

Being the master tactician that he is, how long will it be before he decides to trust the conditioning and will of his starters before playing Russian roulette with his reserves in a game that really matters?

If the past three games are any revelation, that time may be approaching faster than anyone could have ever imagined.

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Laying the Foundation: USC Football Recruiting in 2009 (DJ Morgan)

Rick McMahan — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 10:25:10 -0500

In a season that has experienced many lows and few highs, the 2009 USC Trojan recruiting class has begun to follow suit.

DJ Morgan, the speedy tailback out of Woodland Hills, CA (Taft High) and rated the No. 36 top prep prospect by ESPN, tore his ACL in his last game.

This injury will end the season for Morgan and will require surgery.

DJ Morgan was the top running back prospect for the Trojans, a player whose speed and shifty moves are reminiscent of current Trojan tailback, Joe McKnight.

It should also be noted that recently there has been speculation that Morgan might forgo his verbal commitment to USC and join his brother at Arizona.

How this injury affects those plans is unclear.

What is clear is that this year's Trojan recruiting class, while deep in quality in certain areas, such as tight end, remains in a state of flux as many USC targets are withholding commitments until the Feb. 2 signing date draws near.

Meanwhile, other verbal commitments, such as Illinois wide receiver, Kyle Prater, are only considered "soft verbals," which in recruiting speak means prepare for signing day surprises.

Trojan faithful need only go back to last year to recall two of these signing day shocks, Morrel Pressley to UCLA and Vontaze Burfict to Arizona State.

The loss of Burfict, in particular, is one that still sticks in the craw of USC fans as Burfict would have looked awfully good in Cardinal and Gold right now.

Of course, in Burfict's case, there were eligibility issues involved in his decision to enroll at ASU so perhaps it just wasn't meant to be.

Nonetheless, there appears to be a disturbing trend where either opposing programs are badmouthing USC, costing them recruits or, and this might be even more disturbing, the luster has worn off the USC Trojan shine.

Either way, this is a critical year for USC to replenish its talent reserves, and this year's class will play a crucial role as the Trojans try to move on from a disappointing season.

The injury to Morgan, the soft status of Kyle Prater, and the transient state of verbal commitments to USC make this one of the more difficult recruiting seasons to project.

By Feb. 2, the signing day for high school recruits, this will all become crystal clear and the Trojans can move forward knowing what needs have been filled and which remain in question.

Expect the USC coaching staff to hit the recruiting trail long and hard between now and signing day.

After this year's team's disappointment on the field, a successful season recruiting will take some of the sour taste out of both the program and their fans mouth's and will provide an optimistic path to spring practice.

Lord knows the Trojans and their fans could use a smile right about now.

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Roy Halladay To the Los Angeles Angels Is Just What the "Doc" Ordered

Johnathan Kroncke — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 01:47:12 -0500

Roy Halladay's pitch hand is strong.

So strong, in fact, he's got practically every team in the Majors falling all over themselves to make sure it belongs to them.

Top prospects, proven starters, first born children—all being offered up like sacrificial lambs to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for Halladay's unique services, but one team has emerged as a potential front-runner.

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim worked their little wings off trying to secure a trade for the Doc last season, and were said to be among the closest to getting it done, but former Blue Jays General Manager J.P. Ricciardi demanded too much and the Angels settled for Scott Kazmir instead.

Good thing “former” is now part of his job title.

With the bullheaded Ricciardi gone, the Angels once again find themselves the lead dogs in the hunt for Halladay, and this time around the price is just right.

This, thanks to Halladay's recent comments about his status with the Blue Jays.

Last offseason he was quoted as saying he wanted to stay with the only team he's ever known, if at all possible.

This year, Halladay is “not interested” in returning Toronto once his current deal expires after the 2010 season.

Where once the Blue Jays had the upper hand and could demand the sun, moon, and stars for their ace, now the sky has fallen and Toronto must accept a much less-desirable deal than originally planned.

Halladay has to be moved now that he's made it clear he won't re-sign with the Jays. The longer they wait to move him, the more value they risk losing.

That said, Toronto still has the pick of the litter as far as interested teams are concerned, and there is no shortage of them.

The New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers have all been linked to Halladay trade rumors at one point or another.

But from this rich and storied crowd, the Angels have emerged as the likely destination for the Doc, and for a number of reasons.

First, and most importantly, it looks like the Angels are going to be in need of a No. 1 starter.

Staff ace John Lackey is expected to command top dollar as the best starting pitcher on the free agent market, and has been courted by several of the above-mentioned teams, along with the Milwaukee Brewers and Texas Rangers.

The Halos would clearly like to hang on to the man who cemented the team's first World Series title as rookie. But as the days and weeks wear on, and the perceived price grows higher, the prospect of Lackey returning to Anaheim seems less and less likely.

A replacement will almost certainly be needed, and as replacements go, you can't do much better than Halladay.

The Angels also have what Toronto is looking for—A stable of promising young talent to help bolster the Blue Jays' farm system, along with several replaceable starters.

Among the many rumors that have sprung up about a package deal from the Angels, the following names have been mentioned as potential pieces: Joe Saunders, Ervin Santana, Terry Evans, Brandon Wood, Peter Bourjos, Hank Conger, Jordan Walden.

These are the players that continue to be mentioned, and there isn't a single one the Angels couldn't live without.

Toronto has apparently backed off Erick Aybar—whom the Angels balked at when Ricciardi demanded he be part of any trade discussions during the season—and instead is rumored to be looking for three or four prospects to go along with a starting pitcher.

Of those players discussed, Saunders is about the only one who the Angels probably shouldn't give up.

Left-handed starters are infinitely more valuable than their righty counterparts, and Saundo has the stuff and the demeanor to be effective in this league for a very long time.

That is not to say that Santana is any less talented, but Toronto will justifiably need someone to replace Halladay on its staff. If the Angels have to part with one, it should be Santana.

The rest of the prospects are a grab bag. The Blue Jays should simply reach into our minor league system, pull out a few of their favorites, and get this deal over with.

The Angels are very deep in the outfield, and may get even deeper with the possible acquisitions of Curtis Granderson and/or Jason Bay. That eliminates any need for Evans or Bourjos in the near future.

Wood is a strikeout machine with Major League bust written all over him. Yet somehow his minor (league) achievements still manage to dazzle teams looking for more power from their infield.

If the Jays are foolish enough to ignore his big league failures and focus on his insignificant numbers in Triple-A, fine. He's gone.

Walden has been talked about as one of the Angels' finest pitching prospects, but he is still at least one or two more seasons away from being a full-time starter at the Major League level.

By then, the Angels would be looking to three-peat as World Series champs, far too busy celebrating Halladay's consecutive Cy Young Awards to even remember they had Walden in the first place.

Pitchers like Roy Halladay don't come along everyday. In fact, his brand of complete-game wonderment hasn't been seen since the days of Bob Gibson and Catfish Hunter.

The Angels shouldn't be looking to empty their reserves every time a big bat or a crafty arm hits the market.

But Halladay is a unique property, and when someone of his ilk is available, teams are happy to take the punch to their farm system and then ask for more.

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Should USC Sit Matt Barkley if He Struggles Against UCLA?

Rick McMahan — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 19:00:20 -0500

First, let me emphatically state that I am aware that what I am proposing would have been considered blasphemy just five short weeks ago.

Bench Matt Barkley?

Are you serious?

The short answer is yes. But with an explanation.

I am aware that for USC, the future is Matt Barkley.

But is it fair to the team if the quarterback of the future is not playing well enough to be the quarterback of now?

Barkley, the nation's darling when the Trojans were 6-1, is now just another struggling young quarterback trying to find his way on a Trojan team that has slipped to 7-3.

Along with his flashes of brilliance, so evident early in the season, now comes the true freshman mistakes that resulted in four turnovers in USC's home debacle against the Stanford Cardinal.

Saddled side by side with his 11 touchdown passes are 10 interceptions, the majority of which have come recently.

Now, I know that the Trojans slide is far from young Mr. Barkley's fault.

It goes without saying that even a "typical" Trojan defensive effort would have possibly resulted in one or two more victories.

So this line of questioning isn't wrapped around an accusation that Matt Barkley is the reason for the Trojans' less than stellar record.

But given the deterioration of that same defense, can the Trojans afford to couple that with another poor performance by Barkley?

Please understand that in the grand scheme of things, there is no greater fan of Barkley than myself.

I fully believe that this talented young man will lead the USC Trojans to the promised land and that soon, perhaps even next year, he will be hoisting that crystal football as the Trojans celebrate a national championship.

However, I also believe that at this point in time, there may be other options that might better suit this year's Trojans should Barkley struggle again.

I also know that the Trojan coaching staff has thrown their support fully to Matt.

I get that.

It is a show of support meant to prop up the confidence of a young quarterback who is struggling.

Yet, there is also an obligation that must be considered to the senior players and others who came to USC to forge their own success as part of this traditional powerhouse.

Is it fair to them to stubbornly refuse to consider Mitch Mustain as a possible option should Barkley stumble once again?

And let us not forget USC's opponent this week.

It is UCLA. Need I say more?

Should Pete Carroll and Jeremy Bates keep refusing to explore other options against this rival should Barkley fail to produce?

In my opinion, no. Any and all options must be considered and utilized against UCLA this week.

So while many may consider my suggestion blasphemy, please forgive me.

More importantly, let's do whatever it takes to beat UCLA.

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With Angels Broadcasting Booth, Fox Swings and Misses

Jose Salviati — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:37:36 -0500

What is going on at Fox? First they overreact by suspending Ralph Lawler and Mike Smith, now they dismiss Steve Physioc and Rex Hudler.

Lawler and Smith, announcers for the L.A. Clippers, made comments that offended a viewer. The viewer called to complain, Fox called the viewer to apologize. Instead of leaving it at that, Fox suspended the pair from broadcasting the next game. Ralph Lawler hadn't missed a game in 25 years! He is a consummate professional and loyal employee. A single comment and the resulting complaint by a single viewer led to a suspension.

Ridiculous.

On the heels of that asinine decision comes word that Fox is going in a different direction next year for Angels broadcasts, opting not to bring back Physioc and Hudler. What direction is Fox going, exactly? Backwards?

I have nothing against Rory Markus, who has been tabbed as Physioc's replacement. Gubicza, however, is as stiff as an overly bleached shirt and has the on-air personality of a cardboard box. Where Hudler exudes personality, Gubicza exudes being really tall.

I know many current fans don't want to remember, but the Angels were considered a small-market, second-tier team before Arte Moreno took over. When the team was owned by Disney they seemed desperate to overtake that other baseball team to the north. They put our major leaguers in ridiculous uniforms, experimented with cheerleaders and zany sound effects for foul balls.

Ew, those are really bad memories.

Arte Moreno restored order. He began to concentrate on his team, our team. He worked to rebuild the farm system, make Angel stadium the best place to watch a game and bring consistency to the team. He succeeded on all fronts. Leave it to Fox to mess with the consistency.

Fox famously gave team ownership a try once. From 1998 to 2004 they seemed to do everything wrong in leading the Dodgers after Walter O'Malley passed away.

Fox Executive: "Say, don't we have the games best hitting catcher and face of the team?" Faceless Fox Accounting: "Yes sir, we do." Fox Executive: "Lets trade him!"

Ew, bad memories again, sorry.

Seems to me that same Fox Exec and Faceless Accountant had another talk recently that resulted in the Angels losing consistency in the broadcast booth. Why ruin one L.A. baseball team when you can negatively impact two?

Physioc's smooth delivery and under-the-radar sense of humor will be missed. Hudler's gaffes, rhymes and that ever-present baseball will be impossible to replace. Fox starts the 2010 baseball season in an 0-2 hole. It's a good thing they don't have any control over the Rally Monkey.

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We Don't Want No Drama: Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp Standout for the Dodgers

PJ Ross — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 18:05:28 -0500

Thus far, the offseason for the Los Angeles Dodgers has been mired in speculation about the divorce of Frank and Jamie McCourt.

Does the team have enough expendable money to fill their roster holes?

Will Frank have to sell the team to a third party?

Is this organization dedicated to winning even with the front office distractions?

But no amount of off the field drama can sour the recognition being earned by Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp.

Both players would be the first to admit that personal accolades mean nothing, even after they each earned Silver Slugger awards and both finished in the top 10 in MVP voting.

On top of that, Kemp won a Gold Glove for his play in center field.

Ethier came in sixth and was sandwiched between two fellow NL West players, Troy Tulowitzski and Pablo Sandoval. The Dodgers' right fielder received two second place votes, three fourth place votes, and 113 total points.

Kemp finished 10th, earning two nods for fourth place and totaling 49 points.

When asked to comment about the awards, each young star will surely downplay the recognition they are receiving.

Don't let that fool you though, as the recognition of the youngsters will go a long way in the clubhouse. Having two players acknowledged as being amongst the elite in the National League is a positive experience for the entire team.

It motivates pitchers, knowing that they have two outstanding bats to support them for at least a couple more years.

It encourages those in the Dodgers' farm system that an organizational talent like Kemp can excel in the majors at such a young age.

It provides the Los Angeles fan base with alternative options, aside from "Mannywood," to rally around when they go to Chavez Ravine for a game.

And while celebrating the accolades of Ethier and Kemp might seem trivial with the absence of a trip to the World Series, we have to remember that championship teams aren't always built in one season, and sometimes not even two.

Joe Torre has guided the Dodgers to back-to-back NL West titles but has failed in each postseason against the Philadelphia Phillies, yet there is no manager in baseball better equipped to bounce back from such disappointing conclusions to consecutive seasons.

Torre knows that with two or three new pitchers, a new second baseman, and a (hopefully) rejuvenated Manny Ramirez, this team is very capable of taking home a World Series championship.

Which brings us full circle, right back to the organizational unrest.

Is there enough money?

Are there going to be new owners?

Will the front office be committed to winning for the long-haul?

So take a deep breath and enjoy the awards won by Ethier and Kemp, because this could be one long, dramatic offseason experience.

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L.A. Lakers' Pivot Points: Five Potholes on the Road to a Repeat, Part 4

Hadarii Jones — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:54:27 -0500

The last segment of this series featured the Cleveland Cavaliers, the first Eastern Conference team that the Los Angeles Lakers might face in the NBA Finals in their quest for a repeat.

The Orlando Magic are another team that could potentially give the Lakers fits if they were to reach the Finals in what would be a rematch of last year's fight for the NBA crown.

The Magic match up well with the Lakeshow and have the type of bench that could be a plus if the pairing were to happen. They also have the revenge factor on their side, which can't be taken lightly.

The roster of the Magic is impressive and is highlighted by the acquisition of shooting guard Vince Carter, who brings a different dimension to the team than the departed Hedo Turkoglu.

Many observers felt that the Magic would drop off after signing Carter, but his presence has been a comfortable fit and the defense he brings is better than anything Turkoglu ever conjured.

Besides his defense, Carter is adept at getting to the rim and shoots the deep ball as well or better than Turkoglu. One knock may be that Carter shoots the ball to much and often leaves teammates unprepared to capture a stray rebound.

He also has the tendency to become uninterested and that could be a major factor if the Magic are able to advance to the Finals. This is something that has plagued Carter his whole career and is likely something the Magic will have to adjust to.

Carter didn't make the trek from New Jersey alone. Power forward Ryan Anderson came with him. Anderson presents a whole different set of challenges for the Lakers.

He could be the sleeper for the Magic because his unique skill-set gives him the ability to drift from the perimeter to the post with ease and his large frame makes him a potential terror on the boards.

The Magic's post depth doesn't end with Anderson by any means. The signing of Brandon Bass and the ability to retain Martin Gorcat gives Orlando the post strength to deal with the Lakers' formidable frontline.

The backcourt has been hurt by the injury of Jameer Nelson and he has to be healthy for the Magic to have a legitimate chance. His penetration is something that could cause the Lakers' endless trouble.

Jason Williams is a competent back-up but he lacks the skills to present the same problems that Nelson does and is much better suited for a reserve role.

Mikel Pietrus is a player familiar with the Lakers and won't be in awe of them if they should meet again. He had limited success guarding Kobe Bryant and is a capable enough defender to cause Bryant problems.

The addition of Matt Barnes gives the Magic another defender to throw at Bryant and, along with Carter and Pietrus, gives Orlando multiple options when confronted with that sizable task.

Of course the anchor of Orlando's team is center Dwight Howard. He more than any other member of the team is anxious for a rematch.

The Lakers were able to counter Howard with the combination of Pau Gasol and Andrew Bynum. The two big men were able to neutralize Howard and take him out of his comfort spot.

Although Howard is a physical beast, his post skills dimmed in comparison to Gasol and Bynum, who may be the most fundamentally sound post combination in the NBA.

He has to improve his footwork in the post and his ability to play with his back to the basket if the Magic are to avoid a repeat of what happened in last season's Finals.

Stan Van Gundy is as underrated a coach as they come and actually may have out-coached Laker legend Phil Jackson in a couple of games.

In the end, though, the coaches matter little as the skills of the players take over. In critical end-game situations, the Magic failed miserably, looking unprepared to meet the Lakers' challenge.

If Orlando is able to force a rematch, they will have to show growth and the ability to learn from their various mistakes in last year's Finals, or they are doomed to repeat them.

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It's Amazing the NBA's Top Scoring Center Is Not on All-Star Ballot

Jose Salviati — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 17:14:32 -0500

Egregious is defined as “conspicuously and outrageously bad or reprehensible.” Chris Kaman not on the All-Star ballot is an egregious flaw.

I understand that Kaman could play the part of the Geico caveman without first going through makeup, but I thought balloting was based on numbers, not incredible good looks.

Sure he is was coming off a 12-and-8 season last year, but compare that to the 2008-2009 season numbers of some who are on the ballot.

Andris Biedrins, Warriors—12 and 11
Marc Gasol, Grizzlies—12 and 7
Spencer Hawes, Kings—11 and 7
Greg Oden, Blazers—9 and 7

The NBA opted instead to put Marcus Camby on the ballot representing the Clippers. Camby averaged 10 points and 11 rebounds last year.

All-Star ballots are, of course, a very un-scientific process. This year’s ballots were released on Nov. 11. The season began Oct. 27. It’s ridiculous to expect the NBA to get an accurate feel for who truly belongs on the ballot only a few games into the season. That, however, is not the point.

The NBA prides itself in being digitally connected. They have a presence on satellite radio, a cutting edge Web site and apps for the iPhone and Android mobile operating systems that deliver live games on your phone.

With apologies to the Black Eyed Peas, when it comes to giving fans options for watching their product, the NBA is 2008. When it comes to dynamically adjusting the NBA All-Star ballot to represent the best and most logical choices, the NBA is two-thousand and late!

The NBA needs to continue to release the All-Star ballot as early as it needs to in order to start collecting votes. But it must alter that ballot online, removing injured players (like Blake Griffin) and adding players that show their worth (Chris Kaman and Brandon Jennings, to name a few).

I understand that the ballot only represents the fan’s votes. It’s likely that Kaman, Jennings and others not on the ballot will make the team as reserves. But credit must be given where credit is due. Shouldn’t the players that are leading the league in scoring at their position (Kaman at 20.5) and shocking the league as a rookie (Jennings with his double-nickle) have at least a shot at a starting berth?

Yes, they should.

We will give you one year to correct this egregious flaw, NBA. Next year we expect to see a dynamic NBA All-Star ballot online. Broadcasting games in Holographic 3-D would be cool, too, but one thing at a time.

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LeBron's Options in 2010: A Clear-Cut Winner Emerges

Jose Salviati — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 16:08:06 -0500

In professional basketball, when you are good you are a celebrity in your local area. When you are great you are known outside the area you call home. When you are a superstar you are known globally and your future moves are picked at and prodded by the likes of someone like me.

Lebron is a superstar.

The game has never seen anyone with his combination of size and skill. He is Wilt, Baylor, Barkley, Malone (Karl and Moses) and Magic all rolled into this single amazing frame. He isn’t yet Bird, Jordan, and Bryant; in other words, he hasn’t proven he should take the final shot, nor has he won anything.

His work ethic and desire to be better will likely propel him to the likes of Bryant when it comes to being a player who you want to take the final shot. He has less control, however, over his desire to win an NBA championship.

NBA championships are won with an interesting combination of superstars, momentum, and luck. It’s impossible to dictate momentum and luck, even for LeBron, but with his upcoming free agency status looming, he has some control over partnering with a superstar.

Which leads me to the point of this article; LeBron, I’m here to help un-muddy the waters. Since appointing myself official lighthouse for the Los Angeles Clippers, the Clips are 2-2. Coincidence? I think not. It’s time to branch out a bit and help others in the NBA family.

You’re welcome, LeBron.

Let’s start by examining two key components that are likely most important to LeBron, winning a championship and global domination. Let’s start with the winning thing.

LeBron Wants to Win an NBA Championship

NBA championships are won by superstars. That’s plural, as in more than one. When you look back to each winner from 1990 on, only the Detroit Pistons of 2003-2004 lacked two legitimate superstars. That team was comprised of quality players from top to bottom, but they were the exception, not the norm. To win today you need two studs.

A team with a chance to win, then, needs to surround those superstars with a super supporting staff. Players that know their role accept and excel in it.

Finally, it helps to have a coach who has been to the mountain before. Of course this isn’t a requirement; Doc Rivers had never won before as a coach, but led the Celtics (and their three superstars) to the championship in 2007-2008. Not necessary, but very helpful.

Quick recap.

LeBron wants a team with a chance to win the NBA championship. Chances of winning said championship are increased when you have:

Two superstar players
A quality supporting staff
A coach who has been to the top before

Now, lets move on to the second thing most important to LeBron as he makes his decision on which uniform he will wear next year.

LeBron Wants to Rule the World

Even though the origin of LeBron’s “Global Icon” nickname seems to stem from a 2006 interview with one of his friends/marketers and not King James himself, he has done nothing to diffuse it. LeBron is the King of Cleveland and known internationally, but he wants more. LeBron’s inner Brain is nudging Pinky as he discusses his plans for 2010, “The same thing we do every night, Pinky—try to take over the world!”

For LeBron, this is entirely possible, but it will take three components. LeBron needs a place that provides opportunities to market, to be seen, and to launch.

Based on my very unscientific of polls, Pau Gasol is not the most handsome of men. But check out the boxscore. TV shows for Pau while in Memphis: 0. TV shows for Pau while in LA: 1. Or did you miss him on CSI: Miami ?

If Pau can get on TV, what’s possible for LeBron in a market that provides those opportunities? I know LeBron was in a movie while based in Cleveland, but guess where that movie’s production company, Harvey Mason Media, is located? North Hollywood, California. The distributor for More Than a Game is Lionsgate. Their headquarters are in Santa Monica, California.

LeBron needs a place to see and be seen. A place he can manipulate the paparazzi so that he is seen entering the right restaurant or leaving the right club just enough times to keep his face plastered globally. Andre Agassi may have been on meth, but he was right on the money when he said “image is everything.” Global icons need to be seen and need to control their image.

Finally, LeBron needs a home that will serve as a catapult to the world; a melting pot, a place with people from all walks of life. LeBron needs a place with a population as diverse as possible enabling him to showcase his talent to a global audience without ever leaving home.

Quick recap

LeBron wants to be a global icon. Global iconization is best achieved when the following components are in place.

Opportunities to market through TV, movies, etc.
A place to see and be seen
A launching point for global domination

So, now that we have the components most crucial for LeBron, let's take a look at the teams with the cap space to court the young superstar.

Just a quick disclaimer before I go on. I am not in any way attempting to provide a detailed analysis of the cap space for each team to the penny. I doubt even a team accountant could do that right now. There are just too many variables to know with any certainty the exact amount of money available in 2010. So the following is a best guess estimate, not all T’s crossed, not all I’s dotted.

The teams with the most cap space in 2010 are listed here, in order of money available.

New Jersey
New York
Miami
Chicago
Minnesota
Oklahoma City
LA Clippers

Now comes the fun part. We have the six components LeBron needs to consider in a new team and now we have the top eight teams that can make a run at him. Let’s see how they do when we hold up each team against the six components.

New Jersey Nets
- Superstar
  - They have Harris, Jianlian, Lopez, Lee, and Terrence Williams guaranteed for 2010-11. This is a solid no for the Nets in this category.
- Supporting staff
  - See above, no.
- Coach who has been there before
  - Lawrence Frank has never been to the NBA Finals and is doubtful to finish out this year.
- Marketing opps
  - Close enough to New York to get a partial yes vote, but I want what’s best for LeBron, so NJ gets a no here.
- See and be seen
  - In New Jersey? Um, no.
- Global launching point
  - Negative

New York Knicks
- Superstar
  - They currently have Gallinari, Hill, Chandler, and Douglas guaranteed for 2010-11. Curry has a player option he might pick up. Not a superstar in the bunch here.
- Supporting staff
  - See above, no.
- Coach who has been there before
  - Mike D'Antoni is a good coach. NBA Finals, however, are not in his resume.
- Marketing opps
  - A mecca for marketing opps. A solid yes here for the Knicks.
- See and be seen
  - Absolutely, another affirmative for the Knickerbockers.
- Global launching point
  - Of course. The Knicks sweep in this category.

Miami Heat
- Superstar
  - The Heat brings back only Beasley and Cook, both fully guaranteed for 2010-11. Beasley is close, but not a superstar yet.
- Supporting staff
  - Barely any staff at all here!
- Coach who has been there before
  - Erik Spoelstra seems like a good guy and the first Filipino-American head coach in the NBA. Don’t tell Ralph Lawler and Mike Smith about that! Spoelstra has never coached in the Finals.
- Marketing opps
  - Limited
- See and be seen
  - South Beach qualifies, the Heat get a yes here.
- Global launching point
  - Negative

Chicago Bulls
- Superstar
  - The Bulls return six players in 2010-11; Deng, Hinrich, Rose, Noah, Johnson, and Gibson. Not a single superstar, however.
- Supporting staff
  - The guys above certainly qualify as a quality supporting staff.
- Coach who has been there before
  - Vinny Del Negro is a second-year coach; never been to the Finals.
- Marketing opps
  - I gave the Bulls a yes here. No real reason why, though.
- See and be seen
  - Not that there aren’t any hotspots in the Windy City; I just don’t remember ever seeing any pictures of Michael Jordan around town. Bulls get a no here.
- Global launching point
  - Nope

Minnesota Timberwolves
- Superstar
  - No
- Supporting staff
  - No
- Coach who has been there before
  - No
- Marketing opps
  - No
- See and be seen
  - No
- Global launching point
  - No

Oklahoma City Thunder
- Superstar
  - Yes. The Thunder is the only team in the list that can boast an honest to goodness NOW superstar in Kevin Durant.
- Supporting staff
  - Yes, in addition to Durant, the Thunder will bring back Collison, Krstic, Harden, Westbrook, Green, Sefolosha, Mullens, White, and Ibaka in 2010-11.
- Coach who has been there before
  - No
- Marketing opps
  - No
- See and be seen
  - No
- Global launching point
  - No

The Los Angeles Clippers
- Superstar
  - No. There is hope still for Griffin, but until the promise is met, this is a no for the team from Los Angeles.
- Supporting staff
  - Yes, with Baron Davis, Chris Kaman, Eric Gordon, Al Thornton, and Blake Griffin all under contract for 2010-11.
- Coach who has been there before
  - Yes. Mike Dunleavy coached in the NBA Finals in the 1990-91 season.
- Marketing opps
  - A mecca for all things marketing related.
- See and be seen
  - Duh
- Global launching point
  - Double-duh

Ok, time for the report card. I have assigned one point to each of the six components. Of course LeBron may give more weight to one component over another (maybe he wants a supporting staff more than he wants a coach with Finals experience, etc.), but I will weigh them all the same. A top score of six means that team meets all the criteria. Here are the final grades.

New Jersey Nets—0
Minnesota Timberwolves—0
Miami Heat—1
Chicago Bulls—2
Oklahoma City—2
New York Knicks—3
Los Angeles Clippers—5

That’s right, LeBron, LA’s the place. It has everything you need. All the marketing opportunities you need to launch your plan for global domination. A quality supporting staff of players and a coach who has been to the Finals before.

I know there are downsides. The owner seems to be, by all accounts, a buffoon. But didn’t Michael Jordan work for the equally buffoonish Jerry Reinsdorf? Yes, LA already has a king named Kobe, but it’s not like LeBron to shrink in front of a challenge, is it?

LA is the place, LeBron, and the Clippers are your team. No need to thank me, but if you must, a suite in Staples would be a nice start. Just saying.

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The UCLA and USC Bands: A Tale of Crosstown Hatred

Derek Hart — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:59:13 -0500

For over 80 years, UCLA and the University of Southern California have had one of the most storied rivalries in sports.

Being that the schools are just over 10 miles apart, it's inevitable that they would be intense foes, and not just on the gridiron or the basketball court.

The real animosity in this crosstown war, however, lies not so much with the athletes, though the battles between the Bruins and the Trojans on the playing fields have often been epic.

If you want to see some real hatred in this rivalry, look no further than the two marching bands, UCLA's "Solid Gold Sound" and USC's "Spirit Of Troy."

Since I am a former member of the Bruin Marching Band, I know firsthand that this tension between the groups is on a level so pronounced, many people find it hard to believe.

It's a hatred perpetuated mostly by the Trojan Marching Band, or "TMB;" the proverbial bullies on the grade school playground, taking lunch money from five-year-olds and laughing at their sobs.

These Trojan musicians are the wolves to UCLA's lambs.

The Capulets to UCLA's Montagues.

The Confederacy to UCLA's Union.

The Hatfields to UCLA's McCoys.

If this was Harry Potter's wizarding world, this sunglasses-wearing, fuzzy-helmeted bunch would be Lord Voldemort's Death Eaters, with their skirted drum major being the Dark Lord himself.

Perhaps this quote from Jason Mangan, the Trojan band manager in 2000, will paint a clear picture of the TMB's attitude towards their Bruin counterparts:

"...arrogance is part of the image that we exude. We definitely taunt (the UCLA band) more than they taunt us. We're very hardcore, and we think they're big whiners."

Damien Graham, a USC band assistant in 2003, is more blunt in assessing the Spirit of Troy's feelings toward UCLA's marching Bruins:

"There is no interaction. There are no friendships. We don't like them."

I'll say this for him—at least he is honest.

Throughout the decades, nearly every encounter the USC band has had with Westwood's blue and gold-clad horn players has been punctuated by obscene gestures, vile cursing, and obnoxious taunting. It has truly been a miracle of God that these two bands have never gotten into a full-scale brawl.

Gordon Henderson, UCLA's band director, and his USC counterpart Arthur C. Bartner, much to their credit, have done much to keep their groups as far away from each other as possible at the annual football game, as well as all other events where the Bruins and Trojans get together.

Otherwise a fight on the level of Mel Gibson's Braveheart may well ensue.

This hatred particularly manifested itself in an event called the Band Bowl, a flag football game between members of the two bands that was usually played on the Sunday before the main clash.

Broken limbs and noses, torn knees, dirty play and fisticuffs, mostly instigated by USC, were commonplace in this series, which began in the 1950's.

I should know—I was involved in two of these Band Bowls while a student at UCLA in the late 1980's. I personally saw drunken Trojan band members scream vile obscenities in our flute players' faces, and I was once the target of TMB abuse at a women's basketball game.

Indeed, these marching Trojans revel in their evilness; as one of their members stated, "When we taunt and yell...we are doing it to have fun."

If that doesn't illustrate what obnoxious bullies the USC band members are, maybe this incident will...

It happened during the 2000 Band Bowl on USC's campus, which ultimately killed the series for good.

During the game, UCLA's instrument and equipment truck, which was parked nearby, was broken into and more than $30,000 worth of instruments, uniforms, and equipment were stolen.

Though most of the stuff was found at an off-campus apartment complex the next day, what was found on a tenor saxophone case was the absolute last straw.

On the instument case, a sticker with Hebrew letters was torn off and a "Stop Hate" Sticker was also ripped. In their place, scrawled in black marker, was the word "Jew."

The worst part about this hate crime—and that's what it was, despite the police declaring otherwise—was that Graham, the same band assistant who so blatantly stated his dislike of the Bruin band, claimed that UCLA left their truck unlocked and, "They brought it on themselves."

Even though there was a broken lock at the scene.

To this day, no one has been arrested for this heinous and bigoted act.

The Band Bowl was cancelled the next year when fearing retaliation, the Trojan band refused to go to the UCLA campus. Considering the bitterness, that was probably a smart move.

Members of the USC band will claim that the taunting is mutual and that UCLA has done its share.

Indeed, Bruin band members, like other Bruin fans, have waved dollar bills and credit cards at the TMB, as well as perform a "Downfall Of Troy" halftime show every four years, depicting the ancient Greeks' triumph in the Trojan war by outsmarting the people of Troy with that horse.

But compared to the evil deeds of the Spirit Of Troy, what the Solid Gold Sound has done has been akin to fighting bombs, bazookas, and AK-47s with pea shooters.

It is quite sad, really. When Rodney King asked if we can't all just get along, it was clear that the Trojan Marching Band turned a deaf ear.

I never knew that people could be so proud of being so rude, arrogant, obnoxious, and mean until I joined the UCLA band and encountered that TMB. It's like once they become Trojan Band members, they are required to forget everything they were taught as kids about sportsmanship, kindness, and goodwill.

As Henderson, the Bruin band director, has said, it is what it is.

This animosity will undoubtedly continue between the UCLA and USC bands, sorry to say.

Largely thanks to the people in charge keeping the groups apart at the football games and not going onto the opposing campus for other sporting events, the interactions have been reduced to a minimum.

Which is a good thing; the hatred between the Bruin and Trojan horn players has become a cold war, one that is probably best for everyone involved.

Here's hoping that it stays that way.

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San Diego-Denver: The Bermuda Triangle of the West

Erwin Mendoza — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 03:23:28 -0500

Which was more spectacular last night: The San Diego Chargers on both sides of the ball, or the implosion of the Denver Broncos?

Denver, CO seems to be not the kryptonite to San Diego, but the Bermuda Triangle. For example: During the 163rd game of the 2007 MLB season, Matt Holliday and company sent the Padres home in a heartbreaking loss and into rebuilding seasons. Example No. 2: In the 2008 NFL season, the infamous Hochuli game set the tone of let down for the rest of the season. Somehow, San Diego always loses something in Denver.

I guess times are different.

Josh McDaniels' Broncos were, like Twilight backpacks, the hottest thing at the beginning of the 2009 season, starting 6-0 with their last victory on Monday night at Jack Murphy Field.

Then they entered the bye week.

I think at that point McDaniels called Norv Turner on Halloween and asked, "Who scares you more? Orton, Simms, or the ghost of John Elway?"

Now, on the verge of Thanksgiving, San Diego goes on a five game win streak, including impressive victories over the New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles. Phillip Rivers has come into his own and Kyle Orton is turning into Jay Cutler version 2.0. Let's be honest, by trading away Cutler, the Broncos lost their only chance at taking the AFC West away from the Chargers.

Oh well.

The Chargers played an excellent all around game this week, don't get me wrong. But seeing Marshall and Moreno get into it, McDaniels mouthing off to Charger linebackers, and Jay Cutler not doing much better in Chicago all overshadow the Chargers' performance.

Maybe San Diego has brought the Bermuda Triangle to Denver now. I'll wait for the Padres to prove me wrong.

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San Diego Chargers' Stylistic Changes Afford Team's Momentum

Paul Preibisius — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:58:29 -0500

Coming off the Raider win, the biggest concern for San Diego was not its record. At 4-3, the season still had plenty of space and time to go either way. The greater worry was how the team was looking during that first half. With no running game (and a stubborn insistence at running it the same way every game), and a passive defense that was giving up yardage at an alarming rate, this team looked like a shadow of itself.

Injured players returning to health has had some effect, but the biggest change in the team has come from the playcalling ideology. On offense, the team is running, but they are much less predictable in how they run, be it how or who. This was capped by 14 carries between Tolbert and Hester against the Broncos, something not even seen when Tomlinson was hurt.

Running the football over the last two weeks is an effort to move the chains and gain yards, from weeks two through 10 they were a way to keep defenses honest and open up play-action. Because they are putting yards on the ground, the team has opened up Rivers, whose yardage totals have dipped, but his passing percentage has skyrocketed because he no longer has to be the offense.

This change in running the football is only a few games old, and as much execution as playcalling, but the team’s alterations to its defense can be followed much easier. Since the team began riding its five-game winning streak, they have emphasized a much more aggressive approach, blitzing more often (they won’t be mistaken for the '08 Giants, but...) and putting opposing quarterbacks on their heels.

The interception total has ridden modestly (four in the first five games, six in the last), but the sack total has exploded (twenty against seven across that same time span).

Merriman’s health has helped somewhat, but I will put much more of this on the change in ideology. Ron Rivera started the season using the attack-based 3-4 formation in a passive coverage-based style that allowed teams to put points and yardage against the team at will.

His current emphasis on playing the 3-4 in a fashion reminiscent of the team’s under Wade Phillips, has allowed the team (one-and-a-half quarters against the Eagles aside) to push around opposing teams and force them into losses.

The team has always had talent, but one could not help but feel the team was underutilizing this talent early on. If Rivers did not connect on 40+ yard bombs to Jackson or Floyd, the team had no offense.

With so many versatile guys on both sides of the ball, the team finally seems to play to its strengths now, which is a big reason not just for a five game winning streak, but more importantly three consecutive wins against teams that are all now 6-4.

The only hope now is that the team continues to attack on defense and spread the wealth a bit in the running game. I feel if the evolving identity of the team continues down the path it is on, this will be a scary opponent in the playoffs and one no team wants to face.

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USC Trojan Fans, What's There to be Thankful For?

Paul Peszko — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:25:46 -0500

That time of year is upon us once again when we give thanks for all the blessings in our lives.

This year Trojan fans might think there’s not very much as far as football goes to be thankful for, but I disagree.

First of all, we should be thankful that Stafon Johnson pulled through surgery and is in full recovery mode. Also, Brian Baucham was able to return from his harrowing motorcycle spill on the 110 freeway.

As far as the season is concerned, we should be thankful that the powers that be scheduled Ohio State and Notre Dame earlier in the season. So, the Trojans were able to maintain their dominance over both of those schools.

It’s never nice to wish ill on anyone, but perhaps we should be thankful that all three teams that beat the Trojans this year lost their next game. That shows they had to put such a huge effort into beating USC that they had little left in the tank for their next opponents.

Again, in the “it’s never nice to wish ill on anyone” category, we should be thankful that Stanford blew it’s chance to win the Pac-10 and play in the Rose Bowl with Andrew Luck’s last minute interception at Cal.

How’s that for karma? That will teach Jim Harbaugh to go for a two-point conversion when Stanford’s in the midst of crushing an opponent.

Speaking of Harbaugh, let’s be thankful that Uconn beat the Irish in OT last Saturday. That sealed Charlie Weis’ fate.

Now that Urban Meyer has said he is not interested in the position, the Irish will no doubt offer the job to Harbaugh within minutes of Stanford’s victory over Notre Dame.

Having Harbaugh at Notre Dame and not at Stanford is something all Trojan fans can look forward to.

And, above all, be thankful that Mark Sanchez is with the New York Jets instead of quarterbacking the Trojans this year. Just look how horrible he has been. Aren’t the Trojans fortunate to have Matt Barkley instead of Sanchez? I’m sure Coach Carroll and Jeremy Bates are extremely thankful.

Also, let’s be thankful that Coach Carroll and Jeremy Bates have stuck with Barkley even when he has played poorly instead of inserting Mitch Mustain or Aaron Corp into a blowout just to see what they can do.

What? You detect a tone of sarcasm in my writing? Never. You have been sucking down too much egg nog, my friend.

Oh, and let’s be most thankful that the UCLA game is being played after Thanksgiving, so all of us can enjoy our holiday feast and festivities.

Now that’s sarcasm.

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It's Troy Week and UCLA STILL SUCKS

Amy Lamare — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 02:01:06 -0500

In 1979, the Trojan Marching Band played on the Fleetwood Mac recording of Tusk. Football Fiends, thanks to the wonders of YouTube I bring you the USC Trojan Marching Band after beating Cal:

And some more scrumpdiliciousness "U-C-L-A Sucks" goodness—see it doesn’t matter whom or where we are playing. The answer to the Trojan Marching band playing Tusk is always "U-C-L-A SUCKS." In fact, whenever, wherever, however, I hear Tusk, the answer is always "U-C-L-A SUCKS."

Here’s the rally in Lincoln, NE in 2007 before the Cornhuskers game, U-C-L-A still sucks:

And here’s the TMB and Song Girls in Arkansas Stadium, still "U-C-L-A SUCKS."

It doesn’t matter. NO ONE IS AS GOOD A VICTORY FOR THE TROJANS AS UCLA.

Remember, U-C-L-A SUCKS!

-Your Gridiron Goddess

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San Diego Chargers Charge into First Through Denver Bronco Blunders

Bowe Fertig — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 01:45:16 -0500

The Chargers week six dropped below .500 for the first time in the ’09 season at 2-3 after their heartbreaking loss to the Broncos. The Chargers had three months and 11 games to make up a 3 ½ game deficit but they achieved the feat in less than half that time.

In their first encounter at Qualcomm Stadium, the Broncos beat the Chargers in every aspect of the game. The Chargers took their four-game winning streak into Invesco Field and repaid the Broncos by controlling the tempo of the game and routing them 32-3.

The Broncos had very few things going for them when facing the Chargers week 10. The run game and home field advantage.

In the first drive of the game the Broncos ran the ball on the first seven plays for 42 yards and then on the eighth play Simms fumbled on his first drop back. The Chargers capitalize on a touchdown; the Broncos get the ball back and go three-and-out on three straight passes.

The Broncos only ran the ball 10 more times after running it on the first seven plays and kept the crowd out of the game all day.

In the hole down 13 points after two Nate Kaeding field goals, still with the game in reach, the Broncos make their biggest mistake of the game by bringing back Kyle Orton.

Yes Orton moved the ball, but the Broncos still got obliterated and there was no positive note for bringing back Orton and keeping him in the game. The move worsened Orton’s injury and affected Chris Simm’s confidence.

Josh McDaniels didn’t take history into account with Orton who was brought back too early last year after an ankle injury and played his worst ball down the stretch because of being brought back prematurely. Now the Broncos have a starting quarterback who is in worse condition than a week before and a back-up quarterback with no confidence and now have a big offensive task ahead of them on Thanksgiving at New York against the Giants.

Speaking of McDaniels bad first year moves. I am sure he learned another valuable lesson against the Chargers through speaking out of turn. Before the game the knucklehead in McDaniels told Charger players “that he owned them.” McDaniels got a taste of his own medicine and I am sure he won’t consciously do that again.

The Broncos couldn’t do anything right and the Chargers took advantage of it by controlling time of possession, 37:52 to 22:08, and rushing for 203 yards, the most this season in their biggest lopsided victory.

The Chargers are now 5-0 when Rivers throws below his average of pass attempts and have scored more than 30 points each time they crack the century mark in rushing yards.

Much of the success from the offense can be credited to the offensive line who are opening holes to run through and keeping the pressure off of Rivers.

Through the first five games of the season Rivers was sacked 15 times and in the last five games he has only been sacked five times and kept spotless last game. The running game has also benefited from the great play of the line after rushing for more than 100 yards in three out of the last five games.

The run has also been a contributor to Rivers success because now teams have to respect the run. The Chargers averaging the lowest total in rushing yards a few weeks ago, now are 20th in league averaging less than a yard fewer than 100.

In the last five games, Rivers has completed on average 69 percent of his passes compared to 59 percent through the first five and has thrown for better than 77 percent in his last two.

The offense has been rolling of late for the Chargers and the defense is following its lead sacking the quarterback 20 times in the last five games and having a leagues fifth best rushing defense allowing a tad over 80 yards per game.

To those who doubted the Chargers balance attack, 28 rushes for 203 yards and 22 passes for 145 yards sounds like a good balance attack to me. What perfect timing for my article last week on their underrated balanced attack .

The Chargers have two winnable games at home against Kansas City and on the road at Cleveland. Both teams won this past week with a few other unexpected wins so the Chargers could be in for tough games against the teams they are expected to beat, but as long as the Chargers can win the turnover ratio and control the clock, like they have been doing of late, they will go into Dallas at 9-3.

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Are the Los Angeles Lakers on the Brink?

Paul Peszko — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 01:43:33 -0500

Between the Lakers' victories last Thursday against the Chicago Bulls and Sunday night against the Oklahoma City Thunder, they had two practice sessions.

This was unusual because Phil Jackson will normally give the team the next day off when games are three days apart. But he decided to hold practice on Friday because he felt the Lakers were “on the brink.”

On the brink of what, Jackson didn’t say. But seeing how the Lakers have performed in both of those games now that Pau Gasol has returned, it’s quite obvious what Jackson was alluding to.

The Lakers seem to be on the brink of having one of the most successful seasons in their history despite losing three games during Gasol’s absence.

They are virtually indefensible. With two seven-footers and four players on the court who can post up, they will cause match up problems for every team they face.

And unlike most NBA teams, the parts are interchangeable.

They start out with Andrew Bynum at the five-spot, Gasol at the four, Ron Artest at the three, Kobe Bryant at the two, and Derek Fisher running the point. Lamar Odom, their 6-11 sixth man, can come off the bench for Gasol.

But Gasol can move to Bynum’s spot and Odom then goes into Gasol’s spot. Or, if Jackson prefers, he can have Odom come in for Artest and go extremely big.

The really cool thing about all three big men is their athleticism and versatility. Odom has even been known to play the two-spot and bring the ball up.

All three can hit medium range jumpers, and Odom is tied for second on the team with 10 three-point buckets.

Their best man-up defensive player, Ron Artest, is also the leader in three-point makes with 21.

Going deeper into the bench, Jordan Farmar usually comes in for Derek Fisher and Shannon Brown for Kobe Bryant.

When those two are on the court along with Ron Artest, the team speeds up from a half-court game to more of an explosive Phoenix-style fast break game.

Just as he does with Odom, Jackson can interchange Farmar and Brown. Sometimes Brown will be on the court with Bryant, along with Artest, Odom and Gasol or Bynum.

The last two games have shown what a nightmare this is for opposing coaches. The only time there is any relief at all is in the fourth quarter when Jackson removes all of his starters along with Odom and puts in the rest of the bench.

That remains the one problem that Jackson and the rest of the staff must solve. If the Lakers are on the brink, the bench (or at least the remainder of the bench beyond Odom, Brown and Farmar) is on the blink.

Sasha Vujacic, Adam Morrison, D.J. Mbenga, and to some extent Josh Powell have not shown any consistency so far this season. Powell has been the most consistent of those four, averaging 13.5 minutes and 5.3 points per game.

Morrison and Mbenga are averaging 2.3 points while Vujacic is low man with just 2.0 points per game.

Even the injured Luke Walton, who is out for the next six weeks with a pinched nerve in his back, hasn’t done much better, averaging only 3.7 points in ten minutes.

Nevertheless, this may suit Jackson, who normally likes to go with an eight-man rotation in the playoffs. Walton, if he is healthy, will be the ninth man, and Mbenga will come in only if one of the big men incurs an injury.

So, now that Gasol has returned, Jackson and the Lakers have a lot to be thankful for.

First of all, they can be thankful that they don’t have a game on Thanksgiving. Instead, the Lakers can feast on the New York Knicks tomorrow night at Staples Center.

Secondly, they can be thankful that they will have three days off to rest and heal before back-to-back games with the Warriors and Nets this weekend.

The Warriors and Nets? Hmm, that’s even more to be thankful for. Here’s looking at a 13-3 start!

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Blake Griffin: NBA All-Star

Mike Murray — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:10:00 -0500

Blake Griffin, college basketball's Player of the Year last season, the NBA's number one draft pick, hasn't played a minute of regular season NBA Basketball.

In a logic known only to the league office, Griffin, 20, is listed as one of the choices on the NBA's All-Star ballot.

Surely, the league will say that the ballots had to be determined early and that in order to allow the fans to vote, likely candidates had to be listed. That's probably true.

However, as a fan, one wonders about the integrity of The Game when a man whose only professional action was the Las Vegas Summer League and the NBA preseason.

Based on those ephemeral performances, Griffin was a likely candidate. However, you would think the league would allow for a little action before listing players on the All-Star ballot.

Consequently, it's entirely possible that someone who hasn't even been a factor, in an actual sense, could end up as the starting power forward for the Western Conference All-Stars.

That's the point.

Shouldn't the NBA All-Star Game be a showcase for the NBA's best talent as well as its biggest names?

So, I have an idea. An idea that appeals to me as a Clippers fan as well as an idea for a purist who loves the game.

VOTE Blake Griffin as the starting power forward for the Western Conference.
Wouldn't it be ironic that the first Clipper starting All-Star would be a player who hasn't played? Something about that appeals to me.

If it appeals to you too, then text "Blake Griffin" to MYNBA (69622). Regular text message charges will apply. Or go to http://www.nba.com/allstar2009 and vote for Griffin there.

Excuse me while I go vote.

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San Diego Chargers Hitting the Right Notes

Paul Preibisius — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:15:47 -0500

The Chargers now five game winning streak has been great cause for optimism. With the Bengals laying an egg against Oakland, the team not only finds themselves back in the division lead a game ahead of the reeling Broncos, but now in a three way tie for that second seed, and the first round bye that accompanies it.

My faith in San Diego is growing in leaps and bounds, not because of the winning streak but how they have done it. My worry just after the last Raiders game (with the Chargers sitting at 4-3 and Denver at 6-1) was not the team’s capacity to win, but their capacity to win big games against big teams.

They had a solid final nine, with the Giants, Eagles, Denver (at the time still a force), Dallas (in the middle of their Miles Austin power-run), and Cinci. I figured they would need at least two of those game to earn a playoff spot, probably three to fight for the division.

They have already fulfilled the three of the five tough games criteria with their first three games, dropping the Giants and Eagles before thrashing Denver. Now they look at a run of the Chiefs (albeit with a little added swagger after the Pitt head scratcher), Browns, and Redskins mixed in with the much more human-looking variations of Dallas and Cinci.

In fact, I’d go out on a limb and say the most dangerous game is not going to be against either listed above, but the resurgent Titans fighting for respect.

On the team’s to do lists for me to really get excited over this team after week eight:

A. Defeat better than .500 team—Check, week nine Giants.

B. Put together back to back wins (I didn’t count the Chiefs/Raiders pair as such)—Check, weeks nine-11.

C. Come out take a lead and hold it—Check, somewhat week 10, more week 11.

D. Add some dimension to the team—Check as follows:

That dimension is what excites me. The team now proves they can get after an opposing team’s offense in a much more aggressive way (first five games- four picks, seven sacks; last five games- six picks, twenty sacks).

And now they are finally developing the running game. Ninety-six yards by LT was a start against the Eagles, but the Denver match, with its two hundred and three team yards rushing, showcased a missing element for the team. This was done by a method that I am somewhat baffled the team had not really pursued to this point: all four backs getting at least seven carries.

During LT’s injury and recovery the team tried to ride Sproles instead of platoon the remaining backs and spread the load. With LT still not as dynamic as he once was (his yardage totals have solidified but he still can’t seem to break that four yard a carry barrier).

The team gave him 20 carries, Sproles nine, and seven apiece to Hester and Tolbert. The lightning bug has continued his less than stellar season taking handoffs but Hester and Tolbert put up 6.6 and 8.3 yards per carry respectively. With a team lacking goal-line and short yardage punch, it is good to see the team trying out the rock in these guys’ hands (both of whom are much better suited to those frequent straight up the gut plays).

Rivers no longer has to do it all, and that will benefit the team in the long run. If they can continue to expound upon the improved running game and harass opposing offenses they will be able to start to run with some of the big teams in the playoffs.

As good as Rivers has been, I was not altogether confident that the team could go places on his arm alone. This team is not flawless, but no one is, especially this year, so good luck and go Chargers.

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