USC-Oregon State: Trojans Escape but Title Hopes Wane

This game reminded many of the 2005 contest between USC and Fresno State, which the Trojans finally pulled out 50-42 on some last quarter heroics by Reggie Bush, the 2005 Heisman Trophy winner.

Tonight, it was the running of Allen Bradford with 147 yards and two TDs and Joe McKnight with 65 yards that saved the Trojans Pac-10 title hopes.

But even their running and Matt Barkley’s passing could not make up for a horrible defensive performance that will no doubt knock the Trojans down a couple of spots in the new BCS standings.

The Trojan defense actually allowed the Oregon State offense to out-gain the Trojan offense, 482 yards—429 yards. They made the Beavers quarterback Sean Canfield look like a Heisman candidate.

Canfield completed 30 of 43 for 329 yards and three TDs while Barkley was 15 of 25 for 202 yards and two TDs. But Barkley also threw three interceptions. However, one was negated by a roughing the passer penalty.

I expect TCU and LSU and possibly the Oregon Ducks, who stomped all over Washington 43-19, to jump USC in when the BCS standings come out on Sunday.

And, USC fans, no complaints, please. Here’s why.

Florida gave up only 237 yards and 19 points.

Alabama—341 yards and 10 points.

Texas—173 yards and seven points.

Cincinnati—275 yards and 10 points

Iowa—310 yards and 13 points

TCU—298 yards and seven points

LSU—193 yards and 10 points.

Miami, which gave up 410 yards and 40 points in losing in OT to Clemson 40-37, will drop out of the Top 10.  Oregon will surely move into the Top 10.  The Ducks gave up 395 yards to Washington but only 19 points.

Giving up 482 yards and 36 points will not bode well for the Trojans nor should it. So much for that vaunted USC pass defense.

It’s a good thing for Pete Carroll and the Trojans that Allen Bradford decided to stick it out and keep plugging away for playing time.

A very good thing. Kudos to Mr. Bradford.