Notre Dame is running away from its historic football rivalry against USC all because it wouldn't accept a schedule change. USC coach Lincoln Riley isn't the reason why the Trojans won't be playing Notre Dame for the foreseeable future. USC shouldn't have to play a tough nonconference game against Notre Dame in the middle of their season when all other Big Ten teams are spared a similar contest.
"This is what happens this time of year, especially when you have a really good staff and are doing a lot of positive things," Riley said. "We're excited about having the opportunity to keep continuity but if there is turnover, not just with that position but any position, these are coveted jobs. It's just part of the world we live in. "Obviously, D'Anton has done a really good job here and we'll see how it turns out."
It would take Riley nearly three years - and plenty of ups and downs - to return to that same place, only this time to have the door slammed shut by No. 7 Oregon in a 42-27 loss that all but eliminated the Trojans' hopes of a first-ever playoff invite. USC will settle once again for a second-tier bowl game, while the Ducks are likely to be one of three Big Ten teams to host a playoff game.
The drill is simple. Just a basic throw-and-catch warm-up, called "Pat-and-Go," that USC and many other football programs do virtually every day. Quarterbacks loosen their arms, while pass catchers get their legs warm, running routes on air. It's the sort of drill where it's easy enough to slough off a rep or two. Or to get a little casual, like playing catch in the yard.
"Although these circumstances were unfortunate, it is critical for availability reports to be accurate," a Big Ten spokesperson said. "Consequently, the conference is imposing a $5,000 fine and admonishes all institutions to use the "out" designation only if there are no circumstances under which a student-athlete could participate in a game. The conference considers the matter closed and will have no further comment."
After an inconsistent start to the season for USC' s secondary, the defensive coordinator stood in front of a cadre of cameras and didn't mince words. There were too many coverage busts leading to too many big pass plays, he said. He planned to spend the bye week studying film with microscopic focus in hopes of understanding exactly what had gone wrong.
That's how much USC gained during its 59-20 victory over Georgia Southern on Saturday. One-hundred thirty-two points are a lot of points. (Carlin Stiehl/Los Angeles Times) That's how much USC has scored in its two games this season, including its blowout victory over Missouri State the week before. If you want to believe the Trojans are better than they were in their previous two seasons, there are developments that could further convince you that you're right.
Tobias Raymond originally volunteered to man the grill during the offensive line's summer barbecue, evolving into a vital team bonding event, showcasing camaraderie and leadership.
