USC-UCLA: A Pumped Match Up

The key for USC football is to end the season in a great matchup, pumped up, and taking advantage of the healthiness of its players. UCLA has a consistent defense with an offense that can be effective, so this will call for the Trojans to get back to work.

They will have to put the injuries behind them, including the traumatic effect of running back Stafon Johnson’s life-threatening injury, can have on a football team. Will they be known for pulling together in times of adversity or for becoming complacent?

Quarterback Matt Barkley cannot become complacent because Aaron Corp and Mitch Mustain will be used to challenge his job should that complacency surface in this emotional game. This is a true test of his mettle, and how he can keep his composure, despite of the effects of working with an incomplete and injured team.

The Trojans must demonstrate preparedness, even when players leave or are injured, making it clear that second, third, or any string player is studied, physically prepared, and is part of the winning consciousness of USC.

UCLA smells blood and the Bruins are good at taking the football away, so USC must play solid ball. Rebounding after a string of losses, UCLA is also pumped and they want to finish on a high note.

Anyone close to this cross-town rivalry knows the power of believing and wanting it more. The fans too will play their part.

The fact that Norm Chow and his staff now at UCLA gave birth to much of what USC does offensively, the Trojans will have their work cut out for them. All of USC's contingent must pull together, opening up new possibilities in play calling and filling positions where a hole exists.

If Damian Williams does not play, can redshirt freshman Brice Butler, junior Ronald Johnson, and Travon Patterson step up in his absence? Will senior tight end Anthony McCoy return from his ankle injury?

So much has been said about USC having a rebuilding year, but it is a known fact that next year USC serves to lose many key players on the current team. Taylor Mays, Josh Pinkard, Kevin Thomas, Jeff Byers, Anthony McCoy, Will Harris, Charles Brown, Alex Parsons, and Averell Spicer are being called upon to offer leadership to this team.

They hold the legacy of their senior year in their own hands.

The buck stops with Pete Carroll. Norm Chow and Steve Sarkisian and their staffs are no longer with him—he too is now in the hot seat.

I am not saying that anyone is questioning his winning spirit and leadership. Pete has shown that he is one of the best. How he responds to changes in his organization and rallies the new team to great heights is yet to be seen.

Unfortunately, playing Sarkisian’s team, USC fell short. Playing UCLA is an opportunity to beat Norm Chow and his offense.

This pumped up, great matchup is a stage set for the thrill of victory and/or the agony of defeat. Both teams have their work cut out for them.