We should be seeing a lot of this on Saturday:
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Because it makes me happy
Fuck UCLA
And because Thanksgiving is around the corner...
and how could we forget...
Go Trojans!
Fight On!
And because Thanksgiving is around the corner...
and how could we forget...
Go Trojans!
Fight On!
Monday, November 17, 2008
College Football Playoff?
In this 60 Minutes interview clip President elect Barack Obama discusses his desire to see a college football playoff system and states that he'll "throw his weight around" to make it happen.
This got me thinking... An 8-team playoff system would be amazing. Aside from making the Las Vegas Bowl an instant fan favorite, it would also crown a true national champion. How many championships would Pete Carroll have won the last 6 years had there been a college football playoff? 2 0f 6 isn't bad. But who would bet against Coach Carroll in an a playoff system? No one prepares better for bowl games than Pete Carroll.
Until that actually happens we'll have to sit around and watch the BCS... compute a national championship game.
This got me thinking... An 8-team playoff system would be amazing. Aside from making the Las Vegas Bowl an instant fan favorite, it would also crown a true national champion. How many championships would Pete Carroll have won the last 6 years had there been a college football playoff? 2 0f 6 isn't bad. But who would bet against Coach Carroll in an a playoff system? No one prepares better for bowl games than Pete Carroll.
Until that actually happens we'll have to sit around and watch the BCS... compute a national championship game.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Week 10 Recap
A few important games this past weekend shook up the National Championship picture even further. Our USC Trojans handled business and destroyed the Washington Huskies 56-0, posting the 3 shutout of the season for the Trojans. While we're still on the outside looking in with regards to the BCS title game, the rankings were given a good shakeup by the likes of this man:
The Mad Scientist
The Mad Scientist
Mike "I Love Brain I Need A" Leach pulled out all the stops and went for the throat during the closing seconds of his game against the Texas Longhorns. With the ball on the Texas 28 yard line, a timeout remaining and 8 seconds left in the game, your average coach would probably have settled for a field goal, but not Leach. He opted to go for all the marbles and dialed in a play that threw into double coverage that could have ended very badly. Michael Crabtree raced down the sideline, side-stepped two defenders and scored the winning touchdown in a thrilling game between the Texas rivals.
You can bet that there was no one happier than this guy:
You can bet that there was no one happier than this guy:
The win put Texas Tech at No. 2 in the BCS rankings. USC sits at No. 7, hoping that the teams above them lose a few times.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Fire Steve Sarkisian
I hate Steve Sarkisian. Everyone here at USC Sports Talk has hated this man for 2 years, maybe even longer. This piece of shit is responsible for USC's underachievement the last couple of years. We have the players, the talent, the reputation and aura to instill fear in every opponent, yet USC consistently falters against inferior teams. Blame Sarkisian. Blame Carroll too for not firing this guy a long time ago. A chimp pointing at a play sheet would draw up a better game plan than this guy.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Week 7 Recap
A glorious Saturday brought us a USC win (albeit a sloppy, sloppy game), an Oklahoma loss at the hands of Colt McCoy and the Longhorns, the destruction of the LSU and Leslie Miles in the Swamp, a Notre Dame loss and a UCLA loss. What more can you ask for when 4 of my most hated teams lose and my own team wins by 28 points despite an awful offensive performance? The highly ranked teams were decimated once again and the new polls reflect the chaos of college football.
Choke-lahoma
Friday, October 10, 2008
Basketball season looming
I know it's tough to think about basketball season when our football team is tearing it up on the gridiron and in the hunt for a national championship. However, it's difficult for me not to get excited about this years basketball season and the team that Tourney Tim has assembled.
Fight On!
This is the rest of the post
For most teams its impossible to replace a player like O.J. Mayo, who was drafted 3rd overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Fortunatly for Trojan Fans, Coach Floyd is like "most" coaches. Floyd has brought in the most talented high school basketball player in the country, 6'7" small forward Demar Derozan. Derozan will easily replace the scoring lost with Mayo's departure and the rebounding lost with Davon Jefferson's departure. He will also ensure that USC appears nightly on ESPN's Top Plays with his thunderous dunks. In addition to Derozan the Trojans will also have the luxury of having a deep bench, something that Floyd has not had the past two seasons.
The Trojans also return junior point guard Daniel Hackett. This will be Hackett's second year as a starter and I expect big things from him. Last season Hackett didn't not play up to his full potential. During the season I speculated that Hackett was struggling because of the dynamic between him and Mayo. They never seemed to play well together and far too often Hackett would defer to Mayo and not look for his own shot. We saw great things from Hackett his freshman year in the NCAA tournament and again at the beginning of last season when he posted a triple double in his first game of the season. Hopefully Hackett will get back on track this year and lead the Trojans to the top of the Pac-10.
Sports Illustrated recently posted a Q&A with writer Luke Winn and Daniel Hacket. Click here to check it out.
Also, check out the latest YouTube video of Daniel Hackett.
Fight On!
This is the rest of the post
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Wright best corner in Carroll era
I just wanted to link up this post on Scott Wolf's blog regarding cornerback Shareece Wright. Wolf said that an NFL scout stated that "Wright is the best corner USC's had since Will Poole and could easily end up being better."
So now I wanna take the time to send out a big fuck you to "that guy" I heard running his mouth at an SC practice; going on about how sorry Shareece Wright is and that he shouldn't be a starter. But I guess he knows better than an NFL Scout.
Fight On!
Beat the Sun Devils!
So now I wanna take the time to send out a big fuck you to "that guy" I heard running his mouth at an SC practice; going on about how sorry Shareece Wright is and that he shouldn't be a starter. But I guess he knows better than an NFL Scout.
Fight On!
Beat the Sun Devils!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Another big weekend
This weekend when the Trojan football team faces off against the Ducks, the Trojan basketball team will be hosting two elite 5-star high school seniors. Dominguez HS small forward Jordan Hamilton and Fairfax HS power forward Renardo Sidney. Both players were in attendance two weeks ago for the USC/Ohio St. game. This weekend will be the deciding factor for Hamilton, who is set to make his official announcement on Monday(October 6th). It appears to be a two team race for his commitment between the Trojans and Longhorns.
Sidney, once the #1 player in the class of 2009, has fallen a bit in the recruiting rankings due to questions about his work ethic. There are also concerns that Sidney may decide to follow in the footsteps of Brandon Jennings and play oversees for a year, before declaring for the NBA draft. Hopefully one of these local standouts will join an already talented 2009 class that consists of Evan Smith, Demetrius Walker, and Noel Johnson.
Fight On!
Beat the Ducks!
Sidney, once the #1 player in the class of 2009, has fallen a bit in the recruiting rankings due to questions about his work ethic. There are also concerns that Sidney may decide to follow in the footsteps of Brandon Jennings and play oversees for a year, before declaring for the NBA draft. Hopefully one of these local standouts will join an already talented 2009 class that consists of Evan Smith, Demetrius Walker, and Noel Johnson.
Fight On!
Beat the Ducks!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
The Stable?
THE STABLE. That's the name that was given to USC's collection of H.S. All-American tailbacks. The Stable performed well in the season opener against Virginia where they amassed over 200 yards rushing and all but Broderick Green found the endzone. The Stable was put on the shelf in the Ohio St. game in favor of the McKnight Show. Where McKnight carried the ball 12 times for 105 yards against the Buckeyes. And now, after a disappointing loss last Thursday in Corvallis, I wonder if Carroll's philosophy behind the Stable can actually work.
I'm going to make the assumption that this concept was devised as a method of managing egos. You have six former H.S. All-American tailbacks, all of which were ranked near the top of their respective classes, they all believe they are the best at their position and they all want the ball. Now there's nothing wrong with this mentality. In fact, this is exactly the type of player Carroll recruits. If you don't think you're the best at your position and that you can beat out any other player, then Carroll wont even consider offering you a scholarship. This should be Carroll's guiding principle in formulating the game plan as well.
The week leading up to a game, whichever two tailbacks execute the game plan the best will play on Saturday. Its as simple as that. True competition. Carroll cannot simply say he wants players to compete, and not reward those competitors for "Winning." Its not a true competition if there's nothing at stake. If the coaches are going to try to get everyone carries on gameday anyway.
Let's look back at the Oregon St. game. Stafon and Gable were the two most productive backs in that game, each averaging over 6 yards a carry. If each of those two backs had carried the ball 15 times we would have had 2 100 yard rushers, not to mention a few rushing touchdowns. Giving each back 15 carries would also allow them to get into a rhythm. You cant expect to hit very many home runs if you're only given one at bat.
So enough with the managing egos philosophy. Only the best should play. And those on the bench can either choose to work harder, get better, and wait for their opportunity or transfer.
Fight On!
Beat the Ducks!
I'm going to make the assumption that this concept was devised as a method of managing egos. You have six former H.S. All-American tailbacks, all of which were ranked near the top of their respective classes, they all believe they are the best at their position and they all want the ball. Now there's nothing wrong with this mentality. In fact, this is exactly the type of player Carroll recruits. If you don't think you're the best at your position and that you can beat out any other player, then Carroll wont even consider offering you a scholarship. This should be Carroll's guiding principle in formulating the game plan as well.
The week leading up to a game, whichever two tailbacks execute the game plan the best will play on Saturday. Its as simple as that. True competition. Carroll cannot simply say he wants players to compete, and not reward those competitors for "Winning." Its not a true competition if there's nothing at stake. If the coaches are going to try to get everyone carries on gameday anyway.
Let's look back at the Oregon St. game. Stafon and Gable were the two most productive backs in that game, each averaging over 6 yards a carry. If each of those two backs had carried the ball 15 times we would have had 2 100 yard rushers, not to mention a few rushing touchdowns. Giving each back 15 carries would also allow them to get into a rhythm. You cant expect to hit very many home runs if you're only given one at bat.
So enough with the managing egos philosophy. Only the best should play. And those on the bench can either choose to work harder, get better, and wait for their opportunity or transfer.
Fight On!
Beat the Ducks!
Labels:
Allen Bradford,
C.J. Gable,
Joe McKnight,
Stafon Johnson,
The Stable
Thursday, September 25, 2008
USC Embarrassed in Corvallis Again
In a stunning upset, Oregon St. topped USC 27-21 tonight behind an amazing effort by RB Jacquizz Rodgers. The freshman ran for 186 yards and 2 touchdowns. Our All-World defense allowed a 5'6" 180 lb. FRESHMAN piece of shit to run all over the place. This game was a complete disaster with Rey Maualuga leaving the field late in the 2nd half with a leg injury. The loss leaves USC on the outside looking in as the rest of the country fights to get into the national championship game.
A lot of things can still happen this season, but the loss seems Stanford-esque considering how badly Oregon St. looked in losses to Stanford and Penn St. I guess USC can still look to get into the Rose Bowl... but fuck the Rose Bowl.
A lot of things can still happen this season, but the loss seems Stanford-esque considering how badly Oregon St. looked in losses to Stanford and Penn St. I guess USC can still look to get into the Rose Bowl... but fuck the Rose Bowl.
Labels:
fuck Corvallis,
fuck the Rose Bowl,
Oregon St. Beavers,
USC
Monday, September 15, 2008
USC 35 - Ohio St. 3
USC destroyed Ohio St. in the alleged "Game of the Year" this past Saturday, 35-3. In what was supposed to be a hard fought, close game, Ohio St. simply bent over and let USC have their way with them. Mark Sanchez threw 4 TD passes and cemented his place in the Heisman race.
We all knew Ohio St. sucked ass, but I guess we didn't realize the extent of the damage. "Star" RB Chris Beanie Wells sat out the game and ends his Heisman campaign in street clothes. For all of the Ohio St. fans trying to rationalize their miserable lives, face the facts: Beanie Wells would not have made a difference. USC dominated Ohio St. in every aspect of the game and unless Beanie can play at all 11 positions on the defensive side of the ball, his so called talents wouldn't have mattered in lessening the beat down this past weekend.
Pussy.
Star LB Rey Maualuga showed why he is the best linebacker in the nation with a great game that included his first career touchdown with a 48 yard interception return. Big Rey outplayed, out-hustled, and out-classed that piece of shit James Laurinaitis the entire game.
Fuck Laurinaitis.
In other great news, fucla still fucking sucks...
All in all, a great weekend for the Trojans. Next stop: at Oregon St. on Sept. 25.
Labels:
James Laurinaitis,
Mark Sanchez,
Ohio St. sucks,
Rey Maualuga,
USC
Friday, September 12, 2008
Carroll Kills Tressel, Charms Girl
One of the most ridiculous videos I've seen. It's worth a watch...
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Fuck the Buckeyes
Already one of my all-time favorite YouTube videos... This video was linked up on TrojanWire earlier today.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
R.I.P. Don Haskins
Don Haskins, former head coach of Texas Western and winner of the 1966 Men's Basketball National Championship, passed away today in his home in El Paso, Texas. Coach Haskins is credited with desegregating college basketball in the South and is in the Basketball Hall of Fame. The amazing story of the 1966 team was portrayed in the 2005 Disney film, Glory Road. A living legend while at UTEP, (formerly Texas Western) Coach Haskins mentored our very own Tim Floyd and countless others. "The Bear" will be truly missed.
R.I.P. Coach Don Haskins
R.I.P. Coach Don Haskins
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
No one has swagger like us!
Pete Carroll and Co. traveled across the country this weekend and swiftly destroyed the helpless Cavaliers. The Cavaliers were defeated as soon as the Trojans boarded their plane to Virginia. UVA didn't stand a chance. Mark Sanchez was on fire, completing 26 of 35 passes for 338 yards and 3 touchdowns. The Trojan offense amassed over 500 yards while the defense was as dominant as expected.
USC faces Ohio St. in two weeks in a match-up that could decide which highly ranked team plays in the BCS National Championship game.
Fight On!
Beat the Buckeyes!
USC faces Ohio St. in two weeks in a match-up that could decide which highly ranked team plays in the BCS National Championship game.
Fight On!
Beat the Buckeyes!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 1 Day
The day that we've all been waiting for is finally upon us. The USC Trojans kick off the 2008 season this Saturday against Virginia in what should be a season full of high expectations and great games. Ever since the 2008 Rose Bowl came to an end, USC fans were left wanting more than the usual bowl game victory. Our team has been at the top of the college football world for years and very few teams have accomplished what the Trojans have been able to achieve these past few seasons:
Six straight Pac-10 titles, 6 BCS Bowl Game appearances, 3 Heisman Trophy winners, and 2 National Championships.
We've been spoiled the last few years and the team faces extremely high expectations every year. The goal for this season will again be that elusive crystal football that every team craves. The Rose Bowl is nice and all, but with the slew of talent lining up for the Trojans, there's no reason USC should settle for anything less than the national championship.
USC has the players, the coaches and the hunger to win it all this year and here's hoping to making that dream happen.
Fight On!
Six straight Pac-10 titles, 6 BCS Bowl Game appearances, 3 Heisman Trophy winners, and 2 National Championships.
We've been spoiled the last few years and the team faces extremely high expectations every year. The goal for this season will again be that elusive crystal football that every team craves. The Rose Bowl is nice and all, but with the slew of talent lining up for the Trojans, there's no reason USC should settle for anything less than the national championship.
USC has the players, the coaches and the hunger to win it all this year and here's hoping to making that dream happen.
Fight On!
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
There Will Be Blood 2
The filming for this new movie will begin (and end) on December 6th.
As RG3 reported yesterday, I don't know what the hell fucla was thinking when they decided to put this humorous ad in the LA Times. Here's a video clip from yesterday's Rome is Burning show, where Jim Rome "fucking rips UCLA a new one."
Enjoy Trojan Fans
Fight On!
As RG3 reported yesterday, I don't know what the hell fucla was thinking when they decided to put this humorous ad in the LA Times. Here's a video clip from yesterday's Rome is Burning show, where Jim Rome "fucking rips UCLA a new one."
Enjoy Trojan Fans
Fight On!
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Football Monopoly Over?
Apparently the "football monopoly" in Los Angeles is over, according to an advertisement taken out in the LA Times by fucla.
Bullshit.
Bullshit.
I guess the assbags at fucla think that buying ad space in the paper will erase years of futility and embarrassment on the football field. Jim Rome had a great take on the situation in today's Rome Is Burning. He argued how USC is lightyears ahead of the powder blue and until the Ruins show some life against opponents on the football field, this little ad means nothing. You have to agree with Mr. Rome. Sure fucla plays USC tough every other year, but they need to compete against the rest of the teams on their schedule instead of getting manhandled by the likes of Notre Dame.
Slick Rick faces a huge challenge in breathing life into a dismal program in Westwood and this ad can only add to the hardships. I'm sure Pete Carroll will put a copy of this ad in every player's locker room before December 6. Maybe in a few years the games will be more competitive, but you can bet your ass that there will be a bludgeoning at the Rose Bowl this season. I'm sure Rey will be licking his chops at seeing whatever excuse of a quarterback is lined up in the fucla backfield.
Until Slick Rick picks up more than the leftover recruits USC discards and teaches the garbage over there how to play, I see no end to the football monopoly in Los Angeles in the near future.
Fight On!
Slick Rick faces a huge challenge in breathing life into a dismal program in Westwood and this ad can only add to the hardships. I'm sure Pete Carroll will put a copy of this ad in every player's locker room before December 6. Maybe in a few years the games will be more competitive, but you can bet your ass that there will be a bludgeoning at the Rose Bowl this season. I'm sure Rey will be licking his chops at seeing whatever excuse of a quarterback is lined up in the fucla backfield.
Until Slick Rick picks up more than the leftover recruits USC discards and teaches the garbage over there how to play, I see no end to the football monopoly in Los Angeles in the near future.
Fight On!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 5 Days
We are only 5 days away from the 2008 kickoff, and we would like to salute the greatest professional collegiate player to ever play the game, Reggie Bush. Sure, there's some controversy with Bush's alleged acceptance of improper benefits while at USC, but if the glove don't fit, then you must acquit. While Bush's legal troubles look messy and may have negative consequences for himself and the team, Bush was an absolute monster on the football field at USC.
We all remember the countless thrills Bush provided while returning punts, sprinting down the sideline and stopping on a dime or amazing dives into the end zone, seen below:
We all remember the countless thrills Bush provided while returning punts, sprinting down the sideline and stopping on a dime or amazing dives into the end zone, seen below:
Reggie Bush is also dating Kim Kardashian. Must be nice...
We haven't had a game-breaker like Bush since he left USC, but hopefully one of the many 5-star recruits can man up and be that go-to guy when we really need them. Reggie Bush has been the most electrifying player in years and it was a privilege to watch him embarrass opponents live. Thanks for the memories, Reggie.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 9 Days
Our countdown to the 2008 college football season kickoff continues with none other than #9, the "Wizard of Aus." Redshirt sophomore WR David Ausberry will look to have an increased role in the offense this coming season. Our wide receivers have been inconsistent at best in the last season, but Ausberry hopes to become a reliable option in the passing game. Since no one is expecting much from Patrick Turner, look for Ausberry, RoJo, Vidal Hazelton and Damian Williams to take the passing game to a higher level.
Ausberry has been blessed with all the physical tools to become a dominant receiver in the mold of Mike Williams, circa 2003. An intimidating presence in the classroom and on the field, Ausberry should dominate the short cornerbacks in the Pac-10. With Sanchez or Mustain lobbing the fades to #9, we should be in good hands in the red zone this season.
Ausberry has been blessed with all the physical tools to become a dominant receiver in the mold of Mike Williams, circa 2003. An intimidating presence in the classroom and on the field, Ausberry should dominate the short cornerbacks in the Pac-10. With Sanchez or Mustain lobbing the fades to #9, we should be in good hands in the red zone this season.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 10 Days
We are only 10 days away from the start of the 2008 college football season. Life will once again have purpose...
Monday, August 18, 2008
It's Official...
Alex Stepheson is a Trojan. The Los Angeles Times is reporting that the 6'9" junior transfer from North Carolina has made an official decision to join the Trojans this fall. It is still unknown whether or not Stepheson will be able to suit up for the Trojans this fall. We'll have to wait for the NCAA ruling on Stepheson's (likely) petition to gain immediate eligiblity, avoiding the transfer rule that requires players to sit out a full season. With USC's luck with NCAA petitions, see Mike Williams, we have preemtively added Alex Stepheson to the 2009 recruiting class joining senior guard Demetrius Walker.
Welcome to the Trojan Family Stepheson!
Fight On!
Welcome to the Trojan Family Stepheson!
Fight On!
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 11 Days
We are only 11 days away from kicking off the 2008 college football season. This brings us to none other than former All-World USC QB, Matt Leinart.
An undisputed winner in the college ranks, Leinart posted an obscene 37-2 record as a starter. Leinart was the 2004 Heisman Trophy winner, a two-time National Champion, an Orange Bowl MVP, a Rose Bowl MVP, a Walter Camp Award winner, a Unitas Award winner, and provided us with some of the greatest plays in Trojan history, the 4th and 9 against Notre Dame and of course, the "Bush Push."
I really miss having Matt Leinart in command of our once proud and feared offense. Ever since Leinart's first career pass went for a touchdown against Auburn, he always brought a sense of confidence to the huddle. His audibles probably saved us countless times from Lane Kiffin's awful play calling. Leinart possessed that winning mentality that Booty never conveyed in the huddle.
An undisputed winner in the college ranks, Leinart posted an obscene 37-2 record as a starter. Leinart was the 2004 Heisman Trophy winner, a two-time National Champion, an Orange Bowl MVP, a Rose Bowl MVP, a Walter Camp Award winner, a Unitas Award winner, and provided us with some of the greatest plays in Trojan history, the 4th and 9 against Notre Dame and of course, the "Bush Push."
I really miss having Matt Leinart in command of our once proud and feared offense. Ever since Leinart's first career pass went for a touchdown against Auburn, he always brought a sense of confidence to the huddle. His audibles probably saved us countless times from Lane Kiffin's awful play calling. Leinart possessed that winning mentality that Booty never conveyed in the huddle.
Leinart always knew how to party too. With an entourage that included the infamous "Bron" and Nich Lachey, Leinart lived the life at SC. Even after leaving college, #11 was still the life of the party, as seen below...
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 13 Days
As we continue our countdown to the 2008 kickoff, we arrive at #13, represented by tailback Stafon Johnson. The junior tailback should have another productive season splitting carries with Joe "I Need Money" McKnight. After showing flashes of greatness throughout last season, Johnson looks to battle for the starting tailback spot for the upcoming season.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Reggie Bush
Great article from AOL Sports Fan House regarding the Reggie Bush alligations. Article pretty much summarizes how I feel about the entire situation.
Of Chinese Gymnastic Gold and Reggie Bush
Brian Grummel
The Olympic flame burns best when fueled by the oxygen of controversy and drama. That torch was particularly bright last night after China's women's gymnastics team captured the team gold over the American squad. At the end of the broadcast, an animated Bela Karolyi -- former US women's national team coach -- excitedly popped off to host Bob Costas about the Chinese team's alleged use of an underage athlete.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but as I understand it the Olympics prohibits gymnastic competitors who aren't 16 year of age by the end of the year. One of China's best competitors appeared to be more than a few hairs short of 16 and apparently had a disputed birth certificate. China has the gold now so there's little point in dispute, but they may have broken the rules in beating a solid group of American gymnasts.
Personally, and even with my patriotic heart of hearts, I say more power to them.
Here's why: it's a stupid rule. I assume -- dangerous, I know -- the rule is in place to avoid putting increasingly young competitors on the stressful world stage while also weakening the incentive for overbearing stage parents hoping for fame and Olympic gold out of very young competitors. That and ostensibly to protect growing bodies.
Those are noble aims but the age limit set is entirely arbitrary. As we've seen in the gymnastics, tennis and other sports, young competitors quite often overcome the pressures and perform at the highest levels. Some kids will inevitably pull a Capriati, but it should be their right to do so. Leave those judgments to parents and the athletes (for better or worse) at what constitutes the right age for Olympic competition.
In this case, China may have broken the rules, but they also did no wrong in my opinion.
In thinking about this I was reminded of the Reggie Bush marketing agency dispute. A solid case has been made that Bush and his family received lavish benefits from the marketing agency, against NCAA rules that prohibit outside benefits. Once again the rules protect something noble
-- amateurism, in this case -- but punish something that isn't truly "wrong".
People get through life by offering their skills on the market, whether it be intelligence, ability to invent something, ability to parse numbers or write code or sing or play football. In allegedly accepting benefits related to his football skills and future earnings, Bush broke what seems a strangely illogical prohibition against doing so.
Like with the Chinese gymnastics team allegedly fielding an underage competitor, I sympathize with the rule-breaker.
When it came down to something that mattered like competitive performance, both Bush and the Chinese women's gymnastics team were simply better than their competitors most of the time. Many frustrated folks see the alleged violations and cannot overcome their distaste for the competitors, marring the actual athletic achievements. Hopefully this won't be the case and the Chinese gymnasts can bask in having beaten the Americans and two of their elite performers in Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin who both turned in tremendous efforts last night.
For their part the American girls did their country proud, smiling and enjoying the Chinese team's final performances even as they knew their gold medal chances had disappeared to alleged cheaters. They saw the same thing I did, a team just a little better than them on that night.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Team USA 1: France 0
US Olympic swimmer, Michael Phelps, is on a mission this summer in Beijing to win 8 Gold Medals. He's on a good pace having won two thus far. The most recent came in the Men's 4x100m Free Relay. In a thrilling race, Team USA beat the favored French team in the closing seconds of the race. When asked before the race how they felt about the American team, the French team said "We're going to smash the Americans."
With France closing in on the Gold Medal, anchor swimmer Jason Lezak rallied to beat the shitty French team and deny them Olympic glory. As with all French-American relations, France had to bend over and take it from the U.S. The American relay team gave France a heartfelt "Fuck you!" in the world of swimming.
Congratulations to US relay team members, Michael Phelps, Garret Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones and Jason Lezak for a job well done.
Fuck you France, you nation of pussies.
With France closing in on the Gold Medal, anchor swimmer Jason Lezak rallied to beat the shitty French team and deny them Olympic glory. As with all French-American relations, France had to bend over and take it from the U.S. The American relay team gave France a heartfelt "Fuck you!" in the world of swimming.
Congratulations to US relay team members, Michael Phelps, Garret Weber-Gale, Cullen Jones and Jason Lezak for a job well done.
Fuck you France, you nation of pussies.
Saturday, August 9, 2008
A Damn Shame...
A very sad day today for everyone at USC Sports Talk. Last night we find out that projected starting QB Mark Sanchez goes down with a dislocated knee cap. That news alone would be devastating for most college teams but USC usually has stockpiles of talent, so we should be alright.
Then I wake up this morning and find out that Bernie Mac has passed away. It's a damn shame really. Mac can be remembered for being one of the original "Kings of Comedy," from his sitcom The Bernie Mac Show, and for his appearances in Don't Be a Menace to South Central..., Bad Santa, the Ocean's Eleven franchise, and as "Bobby Bolivia" in Transformers.
R.I.P.
Bernie Mac
1957-2008
Then I wake up this morning and find out that Bernie Mac has passed away. It's a damn shame really. Mac can be remembered for being one of the original "Kings of Comedy," from his sitcom The Bernie Mac Show, and for his appearances in Don't Be a Menace to South Central..., Bad Santa, the Ocean's Eleven franchise, and as "Bobby Bolivia" in Transformers.
R.I.P.
Bernie Mac
1957-2008
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Demetrius Walker commits to USC
USC picked up its first commitment for the Class of 2009 in 6'4" shooting guard Demetrius Walker, from JSerra Catholic High School in San Juan Capistrano. The athletic guard is ranked as the #25 SG by both ESPN and Rivals.
Click here for a great article on Demetrius Walker's commitment from WeAreSc.com...
Video Highlights
USC Hoops.tv
YouTube
Click here for a great article on Demetrius Walker's commitment from WeAreSc.com...
Video Highlights
USC Hoops.tv
YouTube
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 24 Days
Our countdown to the 2008 kickoff brings us to #24, represented by junior CB Shareece Wright. The hard-hitting Wright looks to start this season in the spot vacated by departed senior, Terrell Thomas. Needless to say, Wright should be a HUGE upgrade at cornerback. With hits like these, USC should have a fearsome secondary to punish opponents this coming season.
On another note, I'll use this opportunity to honor another fearsome #24...
On another note, I'll use this opportunity to honor another fearsome #24...
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Don't Sleep
As you will see from the video below, it appears that there are some Ohio St. fans that slept through the last two seasons of college football. Apparently they either missed or have forgotten that their football team was embarrassed two years in a row in the BCS National Championship game. One buckeye fan still has hope...
Memo to Ohiopherks: check your schedule. Your wonderful "dream" will unfortunately come to a horrific end following the complete dismantling of your football team at the hands of Pete Carroll and the Trojans. The only dreams you'll be having after September 13th will be terrifying nightmares. You'll wake up in the middle of the night in a pool of your or sweat, screaming in horror... "someone stop that beast!"
The Heisman talk for Mr. Wells ends on September 13th.
Fight On!
Beat the Cavaliers!
Memo to Ohiopherks: check your schedule. Your wonderful "dream" will unfortunately come to a horrific end following the complete dismantling of your football team at the hands of Pete Carroll and the Trojans. The only dreams you'll be having after September 13th will be terrifying nightmares. You'll wake up in the middle of the night in a pool of your or sweat, screaming in horror... "someone stop that beast!"
Behold your worst nightmare...
The Heisman talk for Mr. Wells ends on September 13th.
Fight On!
Beat the Cavaliers!
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Coach Howland? Hi my name is Chris Hansen
Tim Floyd took a lot of flack from the national media when 8th grader Ryan Boatright committed to play basketball at USC. At the time Boatright was in the process of decided which high school he would attend, East or West Aurora High School in Northern Illinois.
At the time I didn't really have a problem with Boatright's "commitment," except for the fact that I wasn't convinced at how "committed" he was to coming to USC. With so many high school juniors wavering on their commitments, there's no telling what you can expect from a commitment made when a kid was in the 8th grade. Fast-forward about a year later, not to be out done, and you have FUCLA head coach ben howland balls deep in the recruitment of an 11-year old boy from Washington...
11-year old basketball "prodigy" Jashaun Agosto has become somewhat of a YouTube sensation. Consider him basketball's version of little Cody Paul. Back in March Jashaun made an appearance on The Ellen Degeneres Show where she discussed his basketball skills as well as his "recruitment" by fucla's coaching staff...
Apparently howland doesn't like to wait for boys to hit puberty before he shows his (fucla's) interest in them. If Jashaun ever does end up playing basketball for fucla, assuming he doesn't skip high school to play basketball in Europe, I'm going to keep this video on file. That way I have "EVIDENCE" to send the NCAA when I allege that one of their players received improper benefits from Nike and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Back to hating all things uclgay...
Fight On!
At the time I didn't really have a problem with Boatright's "commitment," except for the fact that I wasn't convinced at how "committed" he was to coming to USC. With so many high school juniors wavering on their commitments, there's no telling what you can expect from a commitment made when a kid was in the 8th grade. Fast-forward about a year later, not to be out done, and you have FUCLA head coach ben howland balls deep in the recruitment of an 11-year old boy from Washington...
11-year old basketball "prodigy" Jashaun Agosto has become somewhat of a YouTube sensation. Consider him basketball's version of little Cody Paul. Back in March Jashaun made an appearance on The Ellen Degeneres Show where she discussed his basketball skills as well as his "recruitment" by fucla's coaching staff...
Apparently howland doesn't like to wait for boys to hit puberty before he shows his (fucla's) interest in them. If Jashaun ever does end up playing basketball for fucla, assuming he doesn't skip high school to play basketball in Europe, I'm going to keep this video on file. That way I have "EVIDENCE" to send the NCAA when I allege that one of their players received improper benefits from Nike and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Back to hating all things uclgay...
Fight On!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Viva Sanchez!
There's a great article on QB Mark Sanchez in the newest edition of ESPN The Magazine. Click here for the article...
Monday, July 28, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 32 Days
Our countdown brings us to #32... The man honored with this post needs no introduction.
The Juice won the Heisman Trophy in 1968 and finished a successful a career at USC that translated to a Hall of Fame career in the NFL. Things kind of soured later on in OJ's life... seen here and here... but shit happens. Regardless of his legal troubles, OJ Simpson was a beast at USC and in the NFL and he is 100% Not Guilty.
You think you can steal my shit!?!...
After the jump, a nice video clip of the best running back ever to play the game!
To get us ready for this year's big game, here's a clip of O.J. just ruining Ohio State...
You think you can steal my shit!?!...
After the jump, a nice video clip of the best running back ever to play the game!
To get us ready for this year's big game, here's a clip of O.J. just ruining Ohio State...
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 33 Days
As we continue our countdown to the 2008 season, we arrive at #33. There's only one #33 at USC and that man is the great Marcus Allen. The 1981 Heisman Trophy winner rushed for 2,342, becoming the first player in NCAA history to rush for over 2000 yards in one season. A regular on the sidelines at USC home games, Marcus Allen helped USC earn the moniker "Tailback-U."
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Countdown to 2008 Kickoff: 34 Days
As we continue our countdown to the 2008 season, we arrive at number 34. It should come as no surprise to anyone who reads this blog regularly that this post is dedicated to Hershel Dennis, the former USC tailback who played from 2002-2007. Hersh was the starter before we had Thunder and Lightening and probably would have been the premier back had he remained healthy. Dennis suffered two unfortunate knee injuries and an unjust accusation from some random whore student, but we'd like to remember all the good times Hershel lived at USC.
Dennis saw limited playing time after the emergence of Reggie Bush and Lendale White and the slew of All-American tailback recruits, but he remained a loyal teammate and supported all the young pups going through the system.
In his final game as a Trojan, Hershel Dennis scored a touchdown in the 2008 Rose Bowl against Illinois. It was his first touchdown since the 2004 season. Dennis was mobbed by teammates to celebrate one of his last moments playing for the Trojans.
Dennis saw limited playing time after the emergence of Reggie Bush and Lendale White and the slew of All-American tailback recruits, but he remained a loyal teammate and supported all the young pups going through the system.
In his final game as a Trojan, Hershel Dennis scored a touchdown in the 2008 Rose Bowl against Illinois. It was his first touchdown since the 2004 season. Dennis was mobbed by teammates to celebrate one of his last moments playing for the Trojans.
Hershel leaves USC as the only player to ever play for 6 Pac-10 Championship teams. He ends his football career with three high school championship rings playing for Long Beach Poly and 13 championship rings in college that include 6 Pac-10 championships, 3 Rose Bowl titles, 2 Orange Bowl titles and of course, 2 National Championship rings... (fuck you LSU).
A class act on the football field, in the classroom or just walking around campus, Hershel Dennis is truly one of the great Trojans I was able to meet and admire during my time at USC. Hersh was by far my favorite player on the team while I was in school and it won't be the same without seeing #34 roaming the campus. Good luck to you, Hersh.
A class act on the football field, in the classroom or just walking around campus, Hershel Dennis is truly one of the great Trojans I was able to meet and admire during my time at USC. Hersh was by far my favorite player on the team while I was in school and it won't be the same without seeing #34 roaming the campus. Good luck to you, Hersh.
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