UCLA Dismisses Three From Football Team Including Josh Shirley

Funny how things work out.

Last years recruiting class for the Trojans included some surprises and disappointments.

One of those so-called "disappointments," was the defection of highly regarded Josh Shirley, a four-star linebacker (as rated by Scout.com) who spurned the Trojans for their crosstown rivals, UCLA, on signing day.

The defection of Shirley, at the time, was thought to be a major blow for USC who had a real need for incoming linebacker talent, a position whose depth was lacking.

The Trojans lost Shirley but benefited themselves from their own signing day surprise in linebacker Hayes Pullard.

Now comes the news that Josh Shirley, wideout Paul Richardson and corner back Shaquille Richardson, all freshmen, have been dismissed from UCLA's football team for stealing a purse.

Although all three may apply for reinstatement upon completing mandatory guidelines set forth by the university, they won't be playing for or be associated with the football team in 2010.

For the Trojans, already reeling from sanctions related to the NCAA's Reggie Bush investigation, further embarrassment from an incoming sticky fingered freshman would be the last thing they needed.

Now a Shirley for Pullard swap seems most fortuitous for USC given that young Josh can't keep his hands off women's accessories.

However, there is disturbing news regarding another incoming USC linebacker.

Glen Stanley, a monster JC transfer who I think may be the second most important incoming freshman (behind Dillon Baxter), may be headed to Florida State instead, according to ConquestChronicles.com.

Though this is just in the rumor stage, a Stanley defection would be a blow to a depleted linebacking corp who, in Stanley, would find its most "field ready" freshman.

For the time being, Trojan fans will just have to sit and wait for Stanley to either fulfill his commitment to the Trojans or move on down the road.

What Trojan fans won't have to wait for is a much needed chuckle when entertaining thoughts of how the Bruins and not USC will have to deal with Shirley and his cohorts.

They say misery loves company and Lord knows the Trojans have had their share of misery lately.

At least for USC fans, shared misery might take their minds off the recent travails of the football program.

Especially if it is shared with the guys who wear powder blue uniforms.