The Emerald Bowl received a 5.34 television rating, the second-highest mark for an ESPN-televised bowl game ever. The Dec. 26 matchup between USC and Boston College was also the most watched Emerald Bowl in the bowl's eight-year history.
December 2009 Archives
Coach Carroll will appear as guest analyst for ESPN's "SportsCenter" and "College GameDay" on Jan. 6 and 7 as part of the network's BCS National Championship coverage from the Rose Bowl.
Carroll will be a part of the evening editions of "SportsCenter" on Jan. 6, a special one-hour "College GameDay" on Jan. 7 at 4 p.m., the pre-game and halftime shows on ABC beginning at 5 p.m. on Jan. 7 and the post-game coverage for "SportsCenter" following the game.
"Coach Carroll's experience in games of this magnitude will provide fans with invaluable insight on the thoughts going through the mind of a coach and the preparation involved to be in a position to win, adding a new element in the analysis of the matchup," said Norby Williamson, ESPN executive vice president of production.
Carroll will be a part of the evening editions of "SportsCenter" on Jan. 6, a special one-hour "College GameDay" on Jan. 7 at 4 p.m., the pre-game and halftime shows on ABC beginning at 5 p.m. on Jan. 7 and the post-game coverage for "SportsCenter" following the game.
"Coach Carroll's experience in games of this magnitude will provide fans with invaluable insight on the thoughts going through the mind of a coach and the preparation involved to be in a position to win, adding a new element in the analysis of the matchup," said Norby Williamson, ESPN executive vice president of production.
Linebacker Uona Kaveinga has been released from his USC scholarship and will transfer to BYU, Coach Carroll announced this afternoon. Kaveinga, a rising junior from Leuzinger High in Lawndale, rotated in as a backup middle linebacker and special teams player for the Trojans this season.
Jake Olson, the 12-year-old Trojan fan who touched the lives of many this fall, will be the celebrity guest picker for ESPN's "College GameDay" on Friday morning at the Rose Bowl.
Linebacker Brian Cushing has been named to the AFC Pro Bowl roster. The Houston Texans rookie will be USC's only representative in the Jan. 31 game in Miami.
Offensive lineman Jeff Byers, athlete Reggie Bush and linebacker Brian Cushing made ESPN's All-Decade High School All-American team.
Don't miss this special three-part photo album, including several insider images and amazing action shots, from USC's Emerald Bowl victory, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Jon SooHoo:
Pre-game
Pre-game
The 2009 season was an eventful one, to say the least.It broke hearts.
It touched lives.
It created everlasting memories.
In the end, the 2009 season will be remembered for its continual ups and downs, nonstop peaks and valleys that made this fall exciting and never dull, at the very minimum. It started with a 56-3 win on a sun-drenched September day at the Coliseum and ended with a 24-13 victory on a rain-soaked December night in San Francisco, making the Trojans Emerald Bowl champs and 9-4 on the year. The bookend wins marked just about the only symmetry in a challenging, odd season at USC.
Some of the strangest, most tragic injuries occurred this season for the Trojans. Freshman linebacker Frankie Telfort was diagnosed with a rare heart condition in July, Aaron Corp broke a bone in his leg on Day 3 of Fall Camp in August, Matt Barkley injured his throwing shoulder at Ohio State and missed the next game, safety Taylor Mays hurt his knee against the Buckeyes and also missed the following game and tailback Stafon Johnson suffered a life-threatening throat injury after a freak weightlifting injury. And that was just through September.
This fall also showed the power of love among the Trojans. Players joined together to sing "Lean on Me" in an August performance that become famous across the country; Jake Olson became an inspiration to players, coaches and fans around the world; and Stafon Johnson's miraculous recovery proved to be encouragement for countless people.
Lifelong memories were also born this fall, as special guests at team events included Bill Withers, Magic Johnson, LeBron James, Spike Lee and Will Ferrell. The Trojans created many special memories on the football field as well -- everything from a spontaneous slip-and-slide competition after practice to epic wins at Ohio State and Notre Dame to go along with a victory over UCLA and a bowl game championship.
So as dramatic and oftentimes heart-wrenching as the 2009 season was, it'll carry with it some very nice mementos into the future. Wins over the two rivals, at a national powerhouse and in a bowl game help offset the effects of the hard road the Trojans traveled this fall, while also giving hope for a very bright future at USC.
So, 2010, watch out. Armed with the character refined and memories forged in 2009, here come the Trojans.
With the Trojan football machine slowing down to a near standstill for the next two weeks, USCRipsIt will be taking a break as well. We'll have occasional news and updates should anything arise, but otherwise, we'll be back to normal blogging activity on Jan. 11.
Coaches are off for the next week -- much-deserved vacation after working almost every single day for the last five months -- before returning to the recruiting trail the first week of January, with their sights set squarely on the final push toward Feb. 3's Signing Day.
Players get the next two weeks off to rest, recuperate and spend time at home prior to beginning offseason workouts on Jan. 11, when they'll dive into an arduous strength and conditioning regimen that will carry them into Spring Practice in March and lay the foundation for the 2010 season.
Players get the next two weeks off to rest, recuperate and spend time at home prior to beginning offseason workouts on Jan. 11, when they'll dive into an arduous strength and conditioning regimen that will carry them into Spring Practice in March and lay the foundation for the 2010 season.
Check out some notable individual and team statistics from the 2009 season:
- Wideout Damian Williams had 1,010 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.
- Matt Barkley went 211-for-352 (60 percent) for 2,735 yards, with 15 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.
- Tailbacks Allen Bradford and Joe McKnight tied for the team lead with eight touchdowns.
- Safety Will Harris had a team-high four interceptions.
- Kicker Jordan Congdon was USC's leading scorer with 77 points with 12 field goals and a perfect 41-for-41 mark on PATs.
- Damian Williams averaged a team-best 113.8 all-purpose yards per game.
- Safety Taylor Mays led the team with 96 tackles.
- Defensive ends Nick Perry and Everson Griffen tied for the team lead with eight sacks apiece.
- Linebacker Michael Morgan had a squad-best 13 tackles for loss.
- The Trojans' turnover margin wound up at 0 for the season.
- USC had 35 sacks.
With the 2009 season now complete, we'd like to thank all of you for following along and staying plugged in through USCRipsIt and the RipsIt Blog during the fall. We appreciate all your support and we hope you continue to follow along through the offseason as the Trojans gear up for 2010.
We'd also like to thank the team of people who helped make USCRipsIt possible this season:
Photographers
Po-He Tseng
Jon SooHoo
Marketing team
Katie Boggs
Elaine Cruz
Mike Joyce
Sarah Heinbigner
Student assistant/writer
Ricky Cambier
Pedro Moura
Video producers
Eric Espinoza
Mark Haas
Rob McPherson
We'd also like to thank the team of people who helped make USCRipsIt possible this season:
Photographers
Po-He Tseng
Jon SooHoo
Marketing team
Katie Boggs
Elaine Cruz
Mike Joyce
Sarah Heinbigner
Student assistant/writer
Ricky Cambier
Pedro Moura
Video producers
Eric Espinoza
Mark Haas
Rob McPherson
The past 10-year run was a decade of dominance for the USC Trojans. All the Pac-10 crowns, the BCS bowls, two national titles and three Heisman Trophy winners add up to one of the finest decades for one program in college football history. Take a look at the 2000s by the numbers for the Trojans:
- Two national championships
- Three Heisman Trophy winners (30 percent of the decade's Heisman winners came from USC)
- Seven straight Pac-10 titles (a conference record)
- Seven straight BCS bowls (an NCAA record; 6-1 mark)
- Seven straight 11-win seasons
- Seven straight AP Top-4 finishes
- Eight consecutive nine-win seasons
- Four Rose Bowl victories (including a Rose Bowl-record three straight wins)
- 9-1 record against UCLA
- 8-2 record against Notre Dame (including a current streak of eight straight wins)
- Nonconference road wins at No. 6 Auburn, Virginia Tech, Arkansas, No. 14 Nebraska, Virginia, No. 6 Ohio State and four at Notre Dame
- Average annual record of 10-3
- 102-26 overall record (.799 winning percentage)
- 4,775,337 fans at 61 home games (78,284 average per game)
The 2010 schedule will feature road trips to Hawaii and Minnesota and nonconference home matchups against Virginia and Notre Dame -- plus the usual nine-game Pac-10 slate -- as the Trojans play an unusual 13-game regular season campaign thanks to the NCAA's "Hawaii/Alaska rule" that permits teams playing out of the continental U.S. to add an extra game to offset travel expenses.
The Trojans play seven road games and six home games next season, with just one bye. Fortunately the road games are spaced out, unlike this season, which saw the Trojans make play six away matchups in the first nine games of the fall. Take a look at USC's 2010 schedule:
Sept. 2 • at Hawaii (Thursday)
Sept. 11 • Virginia
Sept. 18 • at Minnesota
Sept. 25 • at Washington State
Oct. 2 • Washington
Oct. 9 • at Stanford
Oct. 16 • California
Oct. 23 • at Oregon State
Oct. 30 • Oregon
Nov. 6 • Arizona State
Nov. 13 • at Arizona
Nov. 27 • Notre Dame
Dec. 4 • at UCLA
The Trojans play seven road games and six home games next season, with just one bye. Fortunately the road games are spaced out, unlike this season, which saw the Trojans make play six away matchups in the first nine games of the fall. Take a look at USC's 2010 schedule:
Sept. 2 • at Hawaii (Thursday)
Sept. 11 • Virginia
Sept. 18 • at Minnesota
Sept. 25 • at Washington State
Oct. 2 • Washington
Oct. 9 • at Stanford
Oct. 16 • California
Oct. 23 • at Oregon State
Oct. 30 • Oregon
Nov. 6 • Arizona State
Nov. 13 • at Arizona
Nov. 27 • Notre Dame
Dec. 4 • at UCLA
One of Coach Carroll's greatest strengths is flipping anything into a positive.
A supreme example of that happened Saturday night in the Emerald Bowl.
After Matt Barkley's slant pass over the middle was picked off by Boston College safety Marcellus Bowman on the first play of the second half, coaches took advantage of the quarterback's miscue and essentially used it as a setup for a the game's biggest play later on.
Carroll and the offensive coaches noticed Bowman, the strong safety, was increasingly sagging down into the box, which paid off for him on the pick. But on the sideline, USC coaches scratched out a play that would exploit the safety's placement that had previously reaped rewards for him. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Damian Williams weaved past the close-to-the-box Bowman and snuck free for Barkley to launch a 48-yard pass that Williams caught at the 1-yard line to set up the clinching score.
Understandably, coaches were ecstatic about the game-changing play that made amends for the earlier interception -- and turned the pick into a positive for the Trojans.
"It was one of those plays that we drew up in the dirt," Carroll said with a wide grin. "And it worked to perfection."
Wideout Damian Williams hauls in a 48-yard pass from Matt Barkley against the coverage of Boston College safety Marcellus Bowman, whose position in the box coaches exploited for the big play. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
A supreme example of that happened Saturday night in the Emerald Bowl.
After Matt Barkley's slant pass over the middle was picked off by Boston College safety Marcellus Bowman on the first play of the second half, coaches took advantage of the quarterback's miscue and essentially used it as a setup for a the game's biggest play later on.
Carroll and the offensive coaches noticed Bowman, the strong safety, was increasingly sagging down into the box, which paid off for him on the pick. But on the sideline, USC coaches scratched out a play that would exploit the safety's placement that had previously reaped rewards for him. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Damian Williams weaved past the close-to-the-box Bowman and snuck free for Barkley to launch a 48-yard pass that Williams caught at the 1-yard line to set up the clinching score.
Understandably, coaches were ecstatic about the game-changing play that made amends for the earlier interception -- and turned the pick into a positive for the Trojans.
"It was one of those plays that we drew up in the dirt," Carroll said with a wide grin. "And it worked to perfection."
Wideout Damian Williams hauls in a 48-yard pass from Matt Barkley against the coverage of Boston College safety Marcellus Bowman, whose position in the box coaches exploited for the big play. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
Following its 24-13 win on Saturday night, USC now owns a 140-35-4 all-time record in night games (kickoff after 5 p.m.). That's an .800 winning percentage under the lights for the Trojans.
In their seven road trips this season -- six during the regular season and one for the Emerald Bowl -- the Trojans flew a whopping 13,080 roundtrip air miles, equivalent to 52 percent of the way around the world at the equator. That stunning total was up 42 percent from last season's 9,196 air miles.
And even with trips to Honolulu, Minneapolis and throughout the Pac-10 next season, USC is slated to log "only" 12,896 air miles in 2010, a couple hundred miles fewer than this season's robust tally.
And even with trips to Honolulu, Minneapolis and throughout the Pac-10 next season, USC is slated to log "only" 12,896 air miles in 2010, a couple hundred miles fewer than this season's robust tally.
With Saturday's Emerald Bowl win over Boston College, the Trojans have now won 16 consecutive nonconference games.
Get all of USCRipsIt's coverage of the Trojans 24-13 win and Emerald Bowl title, here in one place:
- RipsIt Report: Behind the scenes at the game
- Pictures from the 24-13 win
- Peak performers: Top efforts from the victory
- AP recap and full stats
SAN FRANCISCO -- "Champions" sounds so good.And so right.
In a sloppy yet satisfying 24-13 win over Boston College in the Emerald Bowl, the Trojans closed out a strange season with something so familiar -- a bowl game triumph that now sends them into the offseason with good feelings and high hopes for the future. The hard-fought victory provided the perfect capper for a peculiar season at AT&T Park, where a new beginning appeared to be forged Saturday night, one that will carry the Trojans into 2010 and beyond.
"That was an amazing job of staying together and hanging together all the way through this season," Coach Carroll told his players in the locker room after the win. "I'm so proud of you guys for that.
"Now, let's continue to build this thing back up."
Not only did the seniors get to finish their Trojan careers with a victory, they also got to be a part of a fresh start for the USC football program. Immediately after the loss to Arizona three weeks ago, Carroll called on his team to return to its foundations and re-create the fire and desire that had been burning for seven previous seasons. The Emerald Bowl was viewed as Game 1 of the 2010 season and a new birth for the Trojans.
Time will tell, but Saturday's output was a vibrant sign of that new revolution. By the time the players had splished and splashed their way through the rain and mud to clinch the Emerald Bowl crown, they were filled with relief, gratitude, humility and hope -- all valuable, pertinent lessons they've learned through the rigorous 2009 campaign and lessons that have been seared into their consciences for the months and seasons to come.
The new beginning, the fresh start was on display in the Emerald Bowl on Saturday. And while there's still room to grow, the Trojans are definitely back on the right path.
The winning path.
Check out some more insider tidbits from the locker room and sideline before, during and after USC's 24-13 victory in the Emerald Bowl on Saturday:
Say Hey Kid
Coach Carroll received the call of a lifetime after the Trojans' Emerald Bowl win on Saturday night.
Sitting in the USC locker room -- aka the San Francisco Giants clubhouse -- following the victory, an employee notified Carroll someone was calling for him on the phone.
But not just anyone.
Willie Mays.
Carroll lit up like a Christmas tree and got to chat with the baseball icon for a few minutes, enjoying the phone call of all phone calls for a lifelong Giants fan and Bay Area native.
"It felt like I was a kid again," a gleaming Carroll said.
The call wasn't the only thing Carroll got Saturday night -- the coach also received an autographed Mays jersey from the Giants clubhouse staffers after the game. And like a boy who becomes so attached to his favorite Christmas present, Carroll wore the jersey all the way home to L.A. on a night he will most assuredly never forget.
Noted and quotedHere are some memorable quotes from behind the scenes at the Emerald Bowl:
- "We're talking like it and walking like it -- now let's go play like it," tailback Allen Bradford told his teammates in the locker room before the game.
- "Hold nothing back and let's have a blast doing it," Coach Carroll said in the locker room before the game. "Let's not stop until we get what we want."
- During the exchange at the pre-game coin toss at midfield, safety Taylor Mays asked Boston College linebacker Mike McLaughlin, "Do you hit hard?" McLaughlin replied, "Not as hard as you." Mays laughed.
- "This is our last memory for eight months," quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates told his players at halftime. "Let's make it a good one."
- "Hey 2-4, you make a play, I make a play!" wideout Damian Williams told cornerback Shareece Wright after his 48-yard catch in triple coverage that immediately followed Wright's interception.
Sideline chess matchThe sharing-the-same-sideline business turned out to be just a cute little wrinkle for the Trojans at the Emerald Bowl.
Dividing up the east sideline, which put the Trojan bench significantly farther from the action for half the matchup, didn't create many noteworthy problems for the players or coaches -- it just made watching the game, calling plays and making substitutions unique for a portion of the night.
But Coach Carroll actually enjoyed the sideline oddity.
"It was kind of fun," Carroll said. "It was cool being so close, because we could interact with their staff during the game."
Because of the distance from the bench to the action when the play was at the other end of the field, most players and coaches ended up turning around and watching the play on the stadium Jumbotron in centerfield. Each team's bench area was also just 30 yards long (between the 15- and 45-yard lines), compared to the usual 50 yards at a normal football stadium, which condensed the players and coaches into tighter quarters.
Trojan coaches did use the sideline idiosyncrasy to their advantage at certain points in the game, though. Whenever the USC offense had the ball in the red zone closest to the Trojan bench, offensive coaches tried to change personnel packages often to create substitution challenges for Boston College, whose bench was about 40 yards away at the far end of the field.
Numbers game
Tailback C.J. Gable, usually wearing No. 2, had to put on a pullover No. 51 jersey for kickoffs since both he and Taylor Mays (also No. 2) were on the same squad. The only issue was that a miscommunication led to Gable and Mays appearing with the same numbers on the same kickoff coverage unit for the first two kicks of the game. Officials fortunately didn't catch the error, or else it would've been a 15-yard penalty.
Weathering the stormTake a look at all the ways the soaking-wet weather wreaked havoc on the Trojans in Saturday's Emerald Bowl:
- After warm-ups, which were conducted in a driving rainstorm, the Trojans returned to a warm and dry locker room, where many players removed their pads and dried off with towels. Many players also changed into dry cleats. As messy as things got, the pre-game rain seemed to excite the players more than anything else.
- The rain mixed with some chilly temperatures to push many players to don several layers of sleeves and leggings. Also, many players utilized waist pouches that were filled with hand warmers.
- The field became so sloppy that players' jerseys, pants and helmets turned into canvases of paint and mud, adding all the colors of the field and logos to the cardinal and gold attire.
- Coaches' headsets were becoming water-logged and were short-circuiting for part of the first quarter because of the precipitation.
Special guests
Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane of "Moneyball" fame and San Francisco Giants pitcher and USC alum Barry Zito were on the sideline during the game.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out these behind-the-scenes images from USC's 24-13 Emerald Bowl victory on Saturday:
Matt Barkley and wideout Robbie Boyer pray together before the game in a hallway adjacent to the locker room.
The USC locker room, which is the San Francisco Giants clubhouse the other 364 days of the year, bustles with activity before the game.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates (left) and offensive coordinator John Morton (right) sit in silence as they review the game plan in the coaches' locker room prior to the game.
Wideout Damian Williams gets his ankles taped by assistant athletic trainer Paul Diaz in the training room prior to the game.
The Trojans come together on the field during warm-ups.
Matt Barkley lets a pass fly during pre-game warm-ups.
In a driving rain, Matt Barkley drops back during warm-ups.
Matt Barkley calls the play in the huddle during warm-ups.
Coach Carroll addresses his team in the locker room before the game.
The Trojans tap the "I'm In" sign on their way out to the field before the game.
Players make their way up the dugout steps and onto the field at the start of the game.
Several Trojans kneel and pray in the end zone just before kickoff.
In an intermittent rain, the Trojans run a play near the goal line in the first half.
USC and Boston College huddle up on the field just a few yards from each other, as the teams shared the same sideline.
The AT&T Park field became a sloppy surface from the intermittent rains, and here, Damian Willaims' jersey and helmet is covered in paint, mud and grass.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin goes over adjustments with his players on the bench during the first half.
The offensive coaches go over adjustments in the locker room during halftime.
Special teams coordinator Brian Schneider scribbles a play in the locker room during halftime.
Coach Carroll talks with the defense in the locker room at halftime.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates discusses adjustments with the offense during halftime.
John Morton goes over plays with his wide receivers during halftime.
With the Trojans surrounding him, Coach Carroll gives a final talk before the team leaves the locker room for the second half.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates draws up a play with Matt Barkley on the sideline during the second half.
The offensive linemen listen to instruction from coach Pat Ruel during the second half.
Coach Carroll and Damian Williams hug as the Trojans celebrate the win on the field.
A grinning Coach Carroll raises the Emerald Bowl championship trophy after the 24-13 win.
Wideout Damian Williams receives his Emerald Bowl offensive MVP trophy.
The Trojans celebrate by singing the fight song in the locker room after the Emerald Bowl win.
The Emerald Bowl trophy rests in the Trojan locker room after their 24-13 win.
Matt Barkley and wideout Robbie Boyer pray together before the game in a hallway adjacent to the locker room.
The USC locker room, which is the San Francisco Giants clubhouse the other 364 days of the year, bustles with activity before the game.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates (left) and offensive coordinator John Morton (right) sit in silence as they review the game plan in the coaches' locker room prior to the game.
Wideout Damian Williams gets his ankles taped by assistant athletic trainer Paul Diaz in the training room prior to the game.
The Trojans come together on the field during warm-ups.
Matt Barkley lets a pass fly during pre-game warm-ups.
In a driving rain, Matt Barkley drops back during warm-ups.
Matt Barkley calls the play in the huddle during warm-ups.
Coach Carroll addresses his team in the locker room before the game.
The Trojans tap the "I'm In" sign on their way out to the field before the game.
Players make their way up the dugout steps and onto the field at the start of the game.
Several Trojans kneel and pray in the end zone just before kickoff.
In an intermittent rain, the Trojans run a play near the goal line in the first half.
USC and Boston College huddle up on the field just a few yards from each other, as the teams shared the same sideline.
The AT&T Park field became a sloppy surface from the intermittent rains, and here, Damian Willaims' jersey and helmet is covered in paint, mud and grass.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin goes over adjustments with his players on the bench during the first half.
The offensive coaches go over adjustments in the locker room during halftime.
Special teams coordinator Brian Schneider scribbles a play in the locker room during halftime.
Coach Carroll talks with the defense in the locker room at halftime.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates discusses adjustments with the offense during halftime.
John Morton goes over plays with his wide receivers during halftime.
With the Trojans surrounding him, Coach Carroll gives a final talk before the team leaves the locker room for the second half.
Quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates draws up a play with Matt Barkley on the sideline during the second half.
The offensive linemen listen to instruction from coach Pat Ruel during the second half.
Coach Carroll and Damian Williams hug as the Trojans celebrate the win on the field.
A grinning Coach Carroll raises the Emerald Bowl championship trophy after the 24-13 win.
Wideout Damian Williams receives his Emerald Bowl offensive MVP trophy.
The Trojans celebrate by singing the fight song in the locker room after the Emerald Bowl win.
The Emerald Bowl trophy rests in the Trojan locker room after their 24-13 win.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out the top individual efforts and some notable numbers from USC's 24-13 Emerald Bowl-winning victory on Saturday:
- Matt Barkley: 27-for-37 (73 percent), 350 yards, 2 passing touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown, 2 interceptions
- Wideout Damian Williams: 12 catches for 189 yards
- Tailback Allen Bradford: 72 rushing yards on 17 carries for a 4.2-yard average
- Fullback Stanley Havili: 6 catches for 83 yards
- Wideout Ronald Johnson: 6 catches for 58 yards
- Defensive lineman Christian Tupou: 7 tackles, including 1.5 for loss
- Defensive lineman Jurrell Casey: 5 tackles, 1 sack, 1 fumble recovery for 22 yards
- Cornerback Shareece Wright: 1 interception
- The Trojan defense allowed just 91 yards and zero points in the second half
- USC went 6-of-12 on third-down conversions
The Trojans are Emerald Bowl champs after a 24-13 win over Boston College on a rain-soaked Saturday night at AT&T Park. Check out the AP recap and get the full stats from the game.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The 2009 season ends now.
The Trojans are minutes away from departing their downtown hotel and heading to AT&T Park, where they're set to face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl. Kickoff is set for 5:06 p.m. and the game will be televised nationally on ESPN (along with being broadcast on several other platforms).
Immediately after the game, the Trojans will travel to the airport and fly back to southern California, so we'll have a full behind-the-scenes report from the Emerald Bowl upon touchdown in L.A. late tonight. In the meantime, follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for occasional updates leading up to and through the game.
Here's a look at USC's agenda for the rest of the day:
3:10 p.m. • Depart hotel for AT&T Park
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
3:57 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
4:24 p.m. • Stretching begins
4:46 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
5:02 p.m. • Trojans take the field
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
The Trojans are minutes away from departing their downtown hotel and heading to AT&T Park, where they're set to face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl. Kickoff is set for 5:06 p.m. and the game will be televised nationally on ESPN (along with being broadcast on several other platforms).
Immediately after the game, the Trojans will travel to the airport and fly back to southern California, so we'll have a full behind-the-scenes report from the Emerald Bowl upon touchdown in L.A. late tonight. In the meantime, follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for occasional updates leading up to and through the game.
Here's a look at USC's agenda for the rest of the day:
3:10 p.m. • Depart hotel for AT&T Park
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
3:57 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
4:24 p.m. • Stretching begins
4:46 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
5:02 p.m. • Trojans take the field
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
SAN FRANCISCO -- Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow today's USC-Boston College matchup in the Emerald Bowl:
- Kickoff: 5:06 p.m.
- National TV: ESPN (Joe Tessitore, Rod Gilmore, Todd Harris)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out some final thoughts on the Trojans' experience during Emerald Bowl week:
- Emerald Bowl week was nothing short of fantastic for the Trojans. The events -- Alcatraz, city tour, Glide Memorial Church visit, etc. -- were a very refreshing change of pace from what USC had been used to for the last four seasons, and being in a new city provided fun diversions and a new place to explore for the players and coaches.
- It was tough and different being away from a normal Christmas experience for the players and coaches, but being together as a team made up for it and created a family environment for the holiday.
- The staff at the Westin St. Francis, USC's team hotel this week, was beyond hospitable and did a fantastic job of making the Trojan headquarters very homely throughout the week.
- The Emerald Bowl officials treated the USC traveling party spectacularly, and particular thanks go out to Gary Cavalli, Ryan Oppelt and all the other bowl staffers who helped make the week a special one for the Trojans.
- Players loved the walk-thru at AT&T Park on Friday, and the stadium should be a neat place to play a game. Half the venue rises up dauntingly like Ohio State's Ohio Stadium, while the other half is essentially open like Washington State's Martin Stadium. It should create a unique place to finish off a unique season for the Trojans.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The final pre-game preparations have been completed.
The Trojans cycled through an adrenaline-infused pump-up session, a special teams roll call and offensive and defensive walk-thrus in separate hotel ballrooms before sitting down for the pre-game meal. The players now have about 90 minutes to rest and relax before departing for AT&T Park, site of the 5 p.m. Emerald Bowl.
Coaches, led by Coach Carroll (left), gather for a staff meeting in a hotel conference room this afternoon.
Players bounce and jump around running backs coach Todd McNair during this afternoon's wild pump-up session in a hotel conference room.
The defense conducts a walk-thru in a massive hotel ballroom.
The Trojans cycled through an adrenaline-infused pump-up session, a special teams roll call and offensive and defensive walk-thrus in separate hotel ballrooms before sitting down for the pre-game meal. The players now have about 90 minutes to rest and relax before departing for AT&T Park, site of the 5 p.m. Emerald Bowl.
Coaches, led by Coach Carroll (left), gather for a staff meeting in a hotel conference room this afternoon.
Players bounce and jump around running backs coach Todd McNair during this afternoon's wild pump-up session in a hotel conference room.
The defense conducts a walk-thru in a massive hotel ballroom.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans are about to gather for their final stage of preparations, a three-pronged meeting that includes a wild pump-up session, a special teams roll call and walk-thrus for the offense and defense. The pre-game meal follows at 1:15 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Emerald Bowl has meant a whirlwind trip for the Trojan Marching Band, USC Song Girls and USC Spirit Leaders.
A faction of the university's spirit groups departed campus at 9 p.m. on Friday for an overnight bus ride to the Bay Area, while a large majority of the band members, Song Girls and Spirit Leaders departed LAX on an early morning charter flight today. They performed at the Emerald Bowl pep rally this morning and then have a rehearsal at City College of San Francisco before heading to AT&T Park for the game, where they'll perform a pre-game and halftime show.
Then immediately after the Emerald Bowl, the spirit groups will re-board their charter plane, return to LAX and bus back to campus -- about 18 hours after departing USC.
A faction of the university's spirit groups departed campus at 9 p.m. on Friday for an overnight bus ride to the Bay Area, while a large majority of the band members, Song Girls and Spirit Leaders departed LAX on an early morning charter flight today. They performed at the Emerald Bowl pep rally this morning and then have a rehearsal at City College of San Francisco before heading to AT&T Park for the game, where they'll perform a pre-game and halftime show.
Then immediately after the Emerald Bowl, the spirit groups will re-board their charter plane, return to LAX and bus back to campus -- about 18 hours after departing USC.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Wet weather appears to be on its way for tonight's Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park.
The current cloudy conditions are expected to give way to a 50-60 percent chance of rain starting at 6 p.m. tonight and carrying on through the evening, according to weather.com. The temperature is forecasted to be in the low 50s throughout the game, though the bay-front stadium could mean a cooler wind chill.
The current cloudy conditions are expected to give way to a 50-60 percent chance of rain starting at 6 p.m. tonight and carrying on through the evening, according to weather.com. The temperature is forecasted to be in the low 50s throughout the game, though the bay-front stadium could mean a cooler wind chill.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Coach Carroll and the Trojan Marching Band appeared at a short Emerald Bowl pep rally at Union Square this morning. Check out some images from the event:
With the Trojan Marching Band behind him, Coach Carroll speaks to the crowd at the Emerald Bowl pep rally at Union Square this morning.
The Trojan Marching Band performs at the Emerald Bowl pep rally at Union Square this morning.
With the Trojan Marching Band behind him, Coach Carroll speaks to the crowd at the Emerald Bowl pep rally at Union Square this morning.
The Trojan Marching Band performs at the Emerald Bowl pep rally at Union Square this morning.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Emerald Bowl week will come to an abrupt end immediately after tonight's game. The Trojans are scheduled to depart on a charter flight out of San Francisco International Airport around 10:30 p.m. tonight, putting them into LAX at about 11:45 p.m.
The USC men's basketball team beat No. 20 UNLV, 67-56, on Friday night to capture the Diamond Head Classic championship in Honolulu. The Trojans have now won six straight -- two of which were against ranked foes -- and sit at 8-4 heading into Pac-10 play, which opens Thursday at home against Arizona.
Several Trojans have been home for the holidays this week.
While most of the players and coaches celebrated Christmas in a foreign city this year, the week in San Francisco leading up to today's Emerald Bowl has been very familiar for a handful of Trojans. Take a look at USC's Bay Area connections:
While most of the players and coaches celebrated Christmas in a foreign city this year, the week in San Francisco leading up to today's Emerald Bowl has been very familiar for a handful of Trojans. Take a look at USC's Bay Area connections:
- Five players attended a Bay Area high school: WR Brandon Carswell (Milpitas HS), TE Rhett Ellison (St. Francis HS), LB/DL Kevin Greene (Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep), S Drew McAllister (Monte Vista HS) and DL Derek Simmons (Armijo HS).
- Coach Carroll was born in San Francisco, grew up in Marin County and attended Redwood High in Larkspur.
- Tight ends coach Brennan Carroll attended Saratoga High.
- Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin played football at Yerba Buena High in San Jose and then San Jose Community College.
- Director of football operations Matt Capurro grew up in Petaluma and then attended University of San Francisco.
- Defensive administrative assistant Pete Dalis grew up in San Jose, attended Bellarmine College Preparatory and went to his fair share of games at AT&T Park (though only Giants games and no football contests at the stadium).
SAN FRANCISCO -- After 11½ consecutive months of workouts, practices, meetings and other preparations, the 2009 season wraps up today.
Players will receive their wake-up calls at 10 a.m. and then have an overflowing breakfast buffet waiting for them in a second-floor ballroom. The day's first order of business is position group meetings at 11 a.m., and then the team will come together at 12:45 p.m. for the last block of meetings prior to leaving the hotel at 3:10 p.m.
Players will receive their wake-up calls at 10 a.m. and then have an overflowing breakfast buffet waiting for them in a second-floor ballroom. The day's first order of business is position group meetings at 11 a.m., and then the team will come together at 12:45 p.m. for the last block of meetings prior to leaving the hotel at 3:10 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Thanks to many: Cast of dozens working for the team
- Christmas service: Feeding homeless at local church
- Holiday cheer: Focusing in on football
- Dispatch from AT&T Park: Photos from walk-thru
- Family dinner: Celebrating Christmas together
SAN FRANCISCO -- The final game day of the year is just around the corner.
USC's last Friday routine of the season is coming to a close, with bed check in a few minutes. And when the Trojans wake up, it'll be the final day of the 2009 campaign, as the Emerald Bowl against Boston College is set for 5:06 p.m. on Saturday. Check out USC's agenda for Saturday:
10 a.m. • Wake-up call
11 a.m. • Emerald Bowl Pep Rally at Union Square
11 a.m. • Position group meetings at team hotel
12:45 p.m. • Special teams meeting
1 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
1:15 p.m. • Pre-game meal
3 p.m. • Clap session
3:10 p.m. • Depart hotel for AT&T Park
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
3:57 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
4:24 p.m. • Stretching begins
4:46 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
5:02 p.m. • Trojans take the field
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
USC's last Friday routine of the season is coming to a close, with bed check in a few minutes. And when the Trojans wake up, it'll be the final day of the 2009 campaign, as the Emerald Bowl against Boston College is set for 5:06 p.m. on Saturday. Check out USC's agenda for Saturday:
10 a.m. • Wake-up call
11 a.m. • Emerald Bowl Pep Rally at Union Square
11 a.m. • Position group meetings at team hotel
12:45 p.m. • Special teams meeting
1 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
1:15 p.m. • Pre-game meal
3 p.m. • Clap session
3:10 p.m. • Depart hotel for AT&T Park
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
3:57 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
4:24 p.m. • Stretching begins
4:46 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
5:02 p.m. • Trojans take the field
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
SAN FRANCISCO -- Hear Coach Carroll's thoughts on the eve of the Emerald Bowl in this free video from USCTrojans.com, produced by Mark Haas.
Coach Carroll speaks to his players during tonight's meetings, the final significant chunk of preparations the Trojans will have prior to the Emerald Bowl on Saturday night.
SAN FRANCISCO -- At 11 a.m. on Saturday, Coach Carroll, a handful of players and the Trojan Marching Band will appear at the Emerald Bowl Pep Rally in Union Square in downtown San Francisco. Admission is free and it's open to the public.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Here's a reminder that at about 3:25 p.m. on game day at AT&T Park, the Trojans will be
dropped off and enter the stadium at the corner of 2nd and King at the
northern corner of the venue (closest to the left-field foul pole).
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans' nonstop Christmas schedule is continuing on with the regular eve-of-game meetings, which are beginning now in second-floor hotel conference rooms. Take a look at USC's schedule for the rest of the night:
7:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting
8 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
8:15 p.m. • Position group meetings
8:30 p.m. • Team meeting
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in team hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
7:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting
8 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
8:15 p.m. • Position group meetings
8:30 p.m. • Team meeting
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in team hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
In a regal 32nd-floor ballroom overlooking San Francisco and the Bay, USC players, coaches and staffers eat a scrumptious Christmas feast together at the top of the Westin St. Francis, their team hotel for Emerald Bowl week. "That was the best meal I've had with USC," sixth-year senior offensive lineman Jeff Byers said as he walked out of the ballroom.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The starting cornerback opposite Kevin Thomas will be a game-time announcement, Coach Carroll said Friday night as the Trojans enter into final preparations for Saturday's Emerald Bowl against Boston College.
Also, Carroll said there was nothing new to report yet regarding tailback Joe McKnight's clearance or availability for the game on Saturday.
Also, Carroll said there was nothing new to report yet regarding tailback Joe McKnight's clearance or availability for the game on Saturday.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out 18 behind-the-scenes images from USC's closed-door walk-thru at AT&T Park on Friday evening:
The San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge rise up beyond AT&T Park, site of Saturday's Emerald Bowl.
A view from the 50-yard line in the upper deck.
A view from the upper deck behind the left-field foul pole.
A view from upper deck from the end zone.
A view from what would typically be behind home plate.
One end zone is about eight feet from the left-field wall.
Showing how far the distance is between the bench and one half of the field, the Trojans remain on their half of the sideline while the offense conducts its walk-thru.
Offensive coaches call plays to the opposite side of the field during the walk-thru to prepare for the logistical challenges presented by sharing the same sideline during the game.
The two bench areas are separated by 10 yards and metal barriers.
The Trojan offense runs through a play at AT&T Park.
The SC-emblazoned ball is teed up for a kickoff during the walk-thru.
Coach Carroll watches on as the offense goes through its scripted first 15 plays.
A view from the temporary bleachers set up in the outfield.
Defensive coordinator Rocky Seto looks on as his defense conducts a walk-thru of key plays.
The USC end zone is in what is typically left field at AT&T Park, with the large Coca-Cola bottle and massive baseball glove watching over.
The Trojans come together for a huddle at the end of the walk-thru.
AT&T Park is lit up under the lights at the end of the walk-thru, which was the same time as kickoff of Saturday's game.
The Giants clubhouse has been converted into the USC locker room for Saturday's game.
The San Francisco skyline and Bay Bridge rise up beyond AT&T Park, site of Saturday's Emerald Bowl.
A view from the 50-yard line in the upper deck.
A view from the upper deck behind the left-field foul pole.
A view from upper deck from the end zone.
A view from what would typically be behind home plate.
One end zone is about eight feet from the left-field wall.
Showing how far the distance is between the bench and one half of the field, the Trojans remain on their half of the sideline while the offense conducts its walk-thru.
Offensive coaches call plays to the opposite side of the field during the walk-thru to prepare for the logistical challenges presented by sharing the same sideline during the game.
The two bench areas are separated by 10 yards and metal barriers.
The Trojan offense runs through a play at AT&T Park.
The SC-emblazoned ball is teed up for a kickoff during the walk-thru.
Coach Carroll watches on as the offense goes through its scripted first 15 plays.
A view from the temporary bleachers set up in the outfield.
Defensive coordinator Rocky Seto looks on as his defense conducts a walk-thru of key plays.
The USC end zone is in what is typically left field at AT&T Park, with the large Coca-Cola bottle and massive baseball glove watching over.
The Trojans come together for a huddle at the end of the walk-thru.
AT&T Park is lit up under the lights at the end of the walk-thru, which was the same time as kickoff of Saturday's game.
The Giants clubhouse has been converted into the USC locker room for Saturday's game.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans are off to their pre-game walk-thru at AT&T Park, and then immediately after finishing up, they'll enjoy a Christmas dinner together on the 32nd floor of the team's downtown hotel. We'll have a report from both events later tonight.
SAN FRANCISCO -- One main goal of today's walk-thru at AT&T Park is for the Trojans to get accustomed to the sideline idiosyncrasy that'll see both teams share the same side of the field in the Emerald Bowl on Saturday.
The goofy arrangement will make substitutions and play-calling difficult and different than a normal football stadium, so the players and coaches will be feeling it out during the walk-thru this afternoon.
"The idea is to get comfortable today, so we don't have to worry about it tomorrow," Coach Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting.
Coach Carroll draws a diagram of the football field and sideline arrangement at AT&T Park so his players will be familiar with sharing the same sideline and the quirks that come with it.
The goofy arrangement will make substitutions and play-calling difficult and different than a normal football stadium, so the players and coaches will be feeling it out during the walk-thru this afternoon.
"The idea is to get comfortable today, so we don't have to worry about it tomorrow," Coach Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting.
Coach Carroll draws a diagram of the football field and sideline arrangement at AT&T Park so his players will be familiar with sharing the same sideline and the quirks that come with it.
SAN FRANCISCO -- During this afternoon's meetings, the players were in the Christmas spirit, as they cheerfully sang "Jingle Bells" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" before the film session got started.
They also happen to be in the football spirit too.
With the Emerald Bowl just 26 hours away, the Trojans have now transitioned into an almost endless business mode that'll carry them into Saturday night's game against Boston College.
"We're focused now -- a collective focus," running backs coach Todd McNair told the team just before the special teams portion of the meetings got going. "Flip the switch, get your minds right."
They also happen to be in the football spirit too.
With the Emerald Bowl just 26 hours away, the Trojans have now transitioned into an almost endless business mode that'll carry them into Saturday night's game against Boston College.
"We're focused now -- a collective focus," running backs coach Todd McNair told the team just before the special teams portion of the meetings got going. "Flip the switch, get your minds right."
In a hotel conference room, the Trojans raise their arms and yell during this afternoon's team meeting, a pump-up tradition they perform every Friday afternoon prior to game days.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Go along with the Trojans to Glide Memorial Church to serve Christmas lunch in the latest free video from USCTrojans.com, produced by Mark Haas.
SAN FRANCISCO -- With a morning off in their rearview mirrors, the Trojans are gathering now for their usual Friday afternoon block of meetings, starting with a special teams film session. USC will depart its downtown hotel at 4 p.m. for a walk-thru at AT&T Park.
SAN FRANCISCO -- On this Christmas day, with the Emerald Bowl just 30 hours away, many Trojans gave the most valuable thing they have.
Their time.
Part of a 5,000-meal effort on Christmas, the Trojans served holiday lunches to homeless and underprivileged at Glide Memorial Church in downtown San Francisco for about two hours today. The well-known philanthropic church, run by the legendary Rev. Cecil Williams, serves 900,000 people per year and has an annual operating budget of $18 million.
Fifteen Trojans, including seven starters, gave up part of their Christmases to serve at the event -- linebacker Michael Morgan, tailback Curtis McNeal, quarterback Matt Barkley, offensive lineman Jeff Byers, kicker Jordan Congdon, quarterback Garrett Green, quarterback Mitch Mustain, center Kristofer O'Dowd, fullback Stanley Havili, wideout Jordan Cameron, offensive lineman Mike Reardon, defensive end Kevin Greene, offensive lineman Alex Parsons, safety Taylor Mays and safety Will Harris.
Take a look at some images from the Trojans' time at Glide Memorial Church today (and see the video recap here):
Fullback Stanley Havili, center Kristofer O'Dowd, offensive lineman Mike Reardon and wideout Jordan Cameron fill in the assembly line at Glide Memorial Church today.
Defensive end Kevin Greene, offensive lineman Jeff Byers and quarterback Matt Barkley collect trays.
Offensive linemen Mike Reardon (left) and Kristofer O'Dowd (right) pose while assembling a Christmas meal.
Safety Taylor Mays and quarterback Mitch Mustain sweep the floor.
Linebacker Michael Morgan hands out a cup.
Matt Barkley cleans a table.
Tailback Curtis McNeal serves punch.
Matt Barkley and Garrett Green talk with one of the attendees at Glide Memorial Church.
Offensive lineman Alex Parsons mixes the fruit punch.
Safety Taylor Mays chats with an attendee at Glide Memorial Church after her meal.
Their time.
Part of a 5,000-meal effort on Christmas, the Trojans served holiday lunches to homeless and underprivileged at Glide Memorial Church in downtown San Francisco for about two hours today. The well-known philanthropic church, run by the legendary Rev. Cecil Williams, serves 900,000 people per year and has an annual operating budget of $18 million.
Fifteen Trojans, including seven starters, gave up part of their Christmases to serve at the event -- linebacker Michael Morgan, tailback Curtis McNeal, quarterback Matt Barkley, offensive lineman Jeff Byers, kicker Jordan Congdon, quarterback Garrett Green, quarterback Mitch Mustain, center Kristofer O'Dowd, fullback Stanley Havili, wideout Jordan Cameron, offensive lineman Mike Reardon, defensive end Kevin Greene, offensive lineman Alex Parsons, safety Taylor Mays and safety Will Harris.
Take a look at some images from the Trojans' time at Glide Memorial Church today (and see the video recap here):
Fullback Stanley Havili, center Kristofer O'Dowd, offensive lineman Mike Reardon and wideout Jordan Cameron fill in the assembly line at Glide Memorial Church today.
Defensive end Kevin Greene, offensive lineman Jeff Byers and quarterback Matt Barkley collect trays.
Offensive linemen Mike Reardon (left) and Kristofer O'Dowd (right) pose while assembling a Christmas meal.
Safety Taylor Mays and quarterback Mitch Mustain sweep the floor.
Linebacker Michael Morgan hands out a cup.
Matt Barkley cleans a table.
Tailback Curtis McNeal serves punch.
Matt Barkley and Garrett Green talk with one of the attendees at Glide Memorial Church.
Offensive lineman Alex Parsons mixes the fruit punch.
Safety Taylor Mays chats with an attendee at Glide Memorial Church after her meal.
SAN FRANCISCO -- A delegation of Trojans is leaving the team hotel and heading to Glide Memorial Church, where they'll serve Christmas meals to homeless and underprivileged San Franciscans for the next hour or two.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Not trying to be Scrooge here, but the fact of the matter is that Christmas 2009 is a normal workday for the Trojans.
With the Emerald Bowl just a day away, today will essentially mirror USC's typical Friday routine, with a morning off, afternoon meetings, a walk-thru this evening and more meetings tonight before a relatively early bed check at 10:30 p.m.
With the Emerald Bowl just a day away, today will essentially mirror USC's typical Friday routine, with a morning off, afternoon meetings, a walk-thru this evening and more meetings tonight before a relatively early bed check at 10:30 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow the USC-Boston College matchup in the Emerald Bowl on Saturday:
- Kickoff: 5:06 p.m.
- National TV: ESPN (Joe Tessitore, Rod Gilmore, Todd Harris)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out this heartwarming feature on service-oriented kicker Jordan Congdon, from today's L.A. Daily News.
Not too many things help spread Christmas cheer more than a USC football player dressed as Santa Claus. Here, offensive lineman Zack Heberer poses for a picture while dressed as St. Nick during a family event last weekend. [Photo courtesy of Caitlin Owen]
SAN FRANCISCO -- The USC players and coaches aren't the only ones working through Christmas in preparation for Saturday's Emerald Bowl.
Dozens of support staffers aren't home for the holiday and instead spending the week in San Francisco with the Trojans. We'd like to individually recognize the numerous people who are helping making this week a possibility for the USC football program, all while being away from their families during Christmas:
Video operations
Eric Espinoza • Director of video operations
Dave Scott • Assistant football video coordinator
Rich Rodriguez • Director of video production
Mark Haas • Producer
Rob McPherson • Producer
Avi Kushlan • Student assistant
David Stephens • Student assistant
Billy Fair • Student assistant
Jeff Herle • Student assistant
Tyler Prosser • Student assistant
Athletic training
Russ Romano • Head athletic trainer
Paul Diaz • Assistant athletic trainer
Chris Grosskopf • Assistant athletic trainer
John Meyer • Rehabilitation coordinator
Mike Hazboun • Student athletic trainer
Katie Calpino • Student athletic trainer
Stephanie Miller • Student athletic trainer
Emily Wozobski • Student athletic trainer
Equipment operations
David "Pops" Scott • Director of equipment operations
Tino Dominguez • Football equipment coordinator
Greg Allen • Assistant equipment manager
Seth Svendsen • Assistant equipment manager
Tre Limbrick • Assistant equipment manager
Adam Kossoff • Head student equipment manager
Eloy Ledesma • Student equipment manager
Brent Cochran • Student equipment manager
Eric Ziskin • Student equipment manager
Brian Wagner • Student equipment manager
Michael Nebgen • Student equipment manager
Matthew Anzueto • Student equipment manager
Kory Augustus • Student equipment manager
Jarone Ashkenazi • Student equipment manager
Gavin Williams • Student equipment manager
Jason Ellenberg • Student equipment manager
Danny Palkovic • Student equipment manager
Strength and conditioning
Chris Carlisle • Head strength and conditioning coach
Jaime Yanchar • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Wendell Richards • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Gary Hyman • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Team security
Rick Carr • Director of team security
Football administration
Mark Jackson • Senior associate athletic director
Matt Capurro • Director of football operations
Randall Green • Director of player personnel
Lenny Vandermade • Offensive administrative assistant
Dave Canales • Offensive administrative assistant
Pete Dalis • Defensive administrative assistant
Joyce Hirayama • Executive assistant to the head coach
Irene Puentes • Receptionist
Terrel Ray • Administrative advisor
Dozens of support staffers aren't home for the holiday and instead spending the week in San Francisco with the Trojans. We'd like to individually recognize the numerous people who are helping making this week a possibility for the USC football program, all while being away from their families during Christmas:
Video operations
Eric Espinoza • Director of video operations
Dave Scott • Assistant football video coordinator
Rich Rodriguez • Director of video production
Mark Haas • Producer
Rob McPherson • Producer
Avi Kushlan • Student assistant
David Stephens • Student assistant
Billy Fair • Student assistant
Jeff Herle • Student assistant
Tyler Prosser • Student assistant
Athletic training
Russ Romano • Head athletic trainer
Paul Diaz • Assistant athletic trainer
Chris Grosskopf • Assistant athletic trainer
John Meyer • Rehabilitation coordinator
Mike Hazboun • Student athletic trainer
Katie Calpino • Student athletic trainer
Stephanie Miller • Student athletic trainer
Emily Wozobski • Student athletic trainer
Equipment operations
David "Pops" Scott • Director of equipment operations
Tino Dominguez • Football equipment coordinator
Greg Allen • Assistant equipment manager
Seth Svendsen • Assistant equipment manager
Tre Limbrick • Assistant equipment manager
Adam Kossoff • Head student equipment manager
Eloy Ledesma • Student equipment manager
Brent Cochran • Student equipment manager
Eric Ziskin • Student equipment manager
Brian Wagner • Student equipment manager
Michael Nebgen • Student equipment manager
Matthew Anzueto • Student equipment manager
Kory Augustus • Student equipment manager
Jarone Ashkenazi • Student equipment manager
Gavin Williams • Student equipment manager
Jason Ellenberg • Student equipment manager
Danny Palkovic • Student equipment manager
Strength and conditioning
Chris Carlisle • Head strength and conditioning coach
Jaime Yanchar • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Wendell Richards • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Gary Hyman • Assistant strength and conditioning coach
Team security
Rick Carr • Director of team security
Football administration
Mark Jackson • Senior associate athletic director
Matt Capurro • Director of football operations
Randall Green • Director of player personnel
Lenny Vandermade • Offensive administrative assistant
Dave Canales • Offensive administrative assistant
Pete Dalis • Defensive administrative assistant
Joyce Hirayama • Executive assistant to the head coach
Irene Puentes • Receptionist
Terrel Ray • Administrative advisor
On behalf of the USC football program, we wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas from San Francisco, where the Trojans are now just a day away from playing in the Emerald Bowl.
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Joe McKnight rejoins team: Tailback travels to San Francisco
- With family for the holiday: Spending time together
- Dispatch from Thursday's practice
- Pictures from Thursday's practice
- Good memories for Hyman: Strength coach returns to CCSF
- Learning from the past: Looking back on 2006
- Hitting the arcade: Having fun on Christmas Eve
- Must-see TV: Stafon on his way back
SAN FRANCISCO -- 'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the hotel downtown, the Trojans were stirring, seeking the Emerald Bowl crown.
Holiday poems aside, only one day now stands between USC and game day. That day happens to be Christmas, but for all intents and purposes, it will be a normal Friday for the Trojans, as it'll include meetings, a walk-thru and more meetings. A trip to serve meals to homeless at Glide Memorial Church and a team Christmas dinner will be the only things different than a usual day-before-the-game. Check out USC's agenda for Friday:
10 a.m. • Brunch at team hotel
12 noon • Glide Memorial Church (serving meals to homeless)
2:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting at hotel
3 p.m. • Team meeting at hotel
3:15 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings at hotel
3:30 p.m. • Position group meetings at hotel
4 p.m. • Depart for AT&T Park
4:15 p.m. • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
5:30 p.m. • Christmas dinner at team hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in team hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
Holiday poems aside, only one day now stands between USC and game day. That day happens to be Christmas, but for all intents and purposes, it will be a normal Friday for the Trojans, as it'll include meetings, a walk-thru and more meetings. A trip to serve meals to homeless at Glide Memorial Church and a team Christmas dinner will be the only things different than a usual day-before-the-game. Check out USC's agenda for Friday:
10 a.m. • Brunch at team hotel
12 noon • Glide Memorial Church (serving meals to homeless)
2:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting at hotel
3 p.m. • Team meeting at hotel
3:15 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings at hotel
3:30 p.m. • Position group meetings at hotel
4 p.m. • Depart for AT&T Park
4:15 p.m. • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
5:30 p.m. • Christmas dinner at team hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in team hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans spent part of their Christmas Eve at Jillian's, a local restaurant and arcade in downtown San Francisco that hosted tonight's Emerald Bowl event for the team. Check out some photos from the night:
With a crowd of teammates looking on, defensive end Everson Griffen goes for the high score in the hammer game.
Wideout De'Von Flournoy (left) and linebacker Malcolm Smith (right) play Dance Dance Revolution.
Wideout Brice Butler (left) and offensive lineman Alex Parsons compete in a horseracing game.
With a crowd of teammates looking on, defensive end Everson Griffen goes for the high score in the hammer game.
Wideout De'Von Flournoy (left) and linebacker Malcolm Smith (right) play Dance Dance Revolution.
Wideout Brice Butler (left) and offensive lineman Alex Parsons compete in a horseracing game.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Following an afternoon of free time, the Trojans are
coming together again for a team dinner at Jillian's, a local
restaurant in downtown San Francisco. Following that, a contingent of
players and coaches are planning on attending a candlelight Christmas
Eve service at a nearby church.
Another ideal day in the Bay Area is coming to a close, with the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay being lit up by an orange sunset. Friday is supposed to be 59 and sunny, but the forecast for game day on Saturday is calling for a 40 percent chance of rain and temperatures in the 50s.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Two Trojans will be seeing former teammates when USC and Boston College meet in the Emerald Bowl on Saturday.
USC linebacker Michael Morgan and Boston College cornerback Roderick Rollins were in the same grade and played together at Skyline High in Dallas, while Trojan punter Billy O'Malley and Eagles defensive end Jim Ramella were one year apart but on the same squad at St. Ignatius High in Cleveland.
USC linebacker Michael Morgan and Boston College cornerback Roderick Rollins were in the same grade and played together at Skyline High in Dallas, while Trojan punter Billy O'Malley and Eagles defensive end Jim Ramella were one year apart but on the same squad at St. Ignatius High in Cleveland.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Coach Carroll became a history professor today,using the past to illustrate a powerful lesson to his team.
During this morning's team meeting, Carroll gave his players perspective for their current state by harkening back to the end of the 2006 season, when the Trojans lost a heartbreaker to UCLA in the season finale, a game that, if won, would've sent USC to the BCS championship game. Instead, the Trojans lost and went on to the Rose Bowl, where they bounced back and dominated Michigan in a 32-18 win.
Using the ups and downs from 2006, Carroll hoped to create some hope and excitement for the opportunity presented in Saturday's Emerald Bowl following a season full of peaks and valleys.
"It was so disappointing, but we had to get over that disappointment," Carroll said this morning, referring to the end of the 2006 season. "We realized that it's what are you going to do about it that counts.
"And that's what's happening now for us too."
During this morning's team meeting, Carroll gave his players perspective for their current state by harkening back to the end of the 2006 season, when the Trojans lost a heartbreaker to UCLA in the season finale, a game that, if won, would've sent USC to the BCS championship game. Instead, the Trojans lost and went on to the Rose Bowl, where they bounced back and dominated Michigan in a 32-18 win.
Using the ups and downs from 2006, Carroll hoped to create some hope and excitement for the opportunity presented in Saturday's Emerald Bowl following a season full of peaks and valleys.
"It was so disappointing, but we had to get over that disappointment," Carroll said this morning, referring to the end of the 2006 season. "We realized that it's what are you going to do about it that counts.
"And that's what's happening now for us too."
SAN FRANCISCO -- One of the nice things about Emerald Bowl week is that there's a smorgasbord of nut products available at every event. The Trojans might overdose on cashews, almonds, peanuts and walnuts by the time the week is over.
Student equipment managers Gavin Williams (left) and Mike Nebgen (right) load up a USC equipment truck at City College of San Francisco, where the Trojans finished their final practice of the week today. All the gear, which had been transported from Howard Jones Field for Emerald Bowl week, was loaded back into the truck and will make the return trek to L.A. following Saturday's game.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Practicing at City College of San Francisco this week has brought back some pretty special memories for one member of the USC football staff.
Gary Hyman, a high-energy assistant strength coach in his first year with the Trojans, was a running backs coach with Delta College in 2008, when the Mustangs won the northern California championship by beating City College of San Francisco in the Hawaiian Punch Bowl.
The game, played on the same field the Trojans have been practicing on all week in preparation for the Emerald Bowl, ended with an upset victory for Hyman and Delta College, which crushed the better-stocked home team, 36-14. Delta College had one player go on to Division I following the '08 season, while City College of San Francisco had nine, Hyman said.
"I couldn't have picked a better way to go out than beating them," Hyman said.
Gary Hyman, a high-energy assistant strength coach in his first year with the Trojans, was a running backs coach with Delta College in 2008, when the Mustangs won the northern California championship by beating City College of San Francisco in the Hawaiian Punch Bowl.
The game, played on the same field the Trojans have been practicing on all week in preparation for the Emerald Bowl, ended with an upset victory for Hyman and Delta College, which crushed the better-stocked home team, 36-14. Delta College had one player go on to Division I following the '08 season, while City College of San Francisco had nine, Hyman said.
"I couldn't have picked a better way to go out than beating them," Hyman said.
The Trojans begin practice at City College of San Francisco on a beautiful day in northern California.
Offensive players sprint through agility bags.
Matt Barkley rolls out.
Joe McKnight breaks from his stance for a running play in team drills.
Matt Barkley makes a throw.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Thoughts from Thursday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- On another picture-perfect day in northern California, the Trojans completed their final practice of Emerald Bowl week and the 2009 season with a brief half-pads workout at City College of San Francisco, one that mainly acted as a review of the game plan. USC now has just a walk-thru on Friday at AT&T Park before Saturday's game against Boston College. "I don't know if you noticed," Coach Carroll excitedly said in the post-practice huddle, "but it's Thursday!"
- Joe McKnight practiced for the first time since Monday, rotating in at first-team tailback throughout the workout even though his status for the game remains in the air. Carroll said there's a "legitimate chance" McKnight would be cleared to return to football. "There's still other things and other processings to be done," Carroll said. "We don't know when that will happen. But it's good to have him back with us."
- Cornerback Kevin Thomas sat out with soreness in his ankle, but Carroll said he's "planning on playing" Saturday against Boston College.
- NFL Hall of Famer and USC alum Ronnie Lott attended the practice.
- On another picture-perfect day in northern California, the Trojans completed their final practice of Emerald Bowl week and the 2009 season with a brief half-pads workout at City College of San Francisco, one that mainly acted as a review of the game plan. USC now has just a walk-thru on Friday at AT&T Park before Saturday's game against Boston College. "I don't know if you noticed," Coach Carroll excitedly said in the post-practice huddle, "but it's Thursday!"
- Joe McKnight practiced for the first time since Monday, rotating in at first-team tailback throughout the workout even though his status for the game remains in the air. Carroll said there's a "legitimate chance" McKnight would be cleared to return to football. "There's still other things and other processings to be done," Carroll said. "We don't know when that will happen. But it's good to have him back with us."
- Cornerback Kevin Thomas sat out with soreness in his ankle, but Carroll said he's "planning on playing" Saturday against Boston College.
- NFL Hall of Famer and USC alum Ronnie Lott attended the practice.
SAN FRANCISCO -- USC is now departing its downtown hotel and heading to City College of San Francisco for its weekly No Repeat Thursday practice, so we'll return afterward with a report from the half-pads workout.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Don't miss this poignant story about Stafon Johnson's injury and recovery, from ESPN.com. Thanks to RipsIt reader John Pings for passing it along.
A full-length interview with Johnson will air on ESPN's "SportsCenter" tonight at 8 p.m.
A full-length interview with Johnson will air on ESPN's "SportsCenter" tonight at 8 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Coach Carroll had a bewildered question for his assistants during this morning's staff meeting:
Is it Christmas Eve?
When notified that, yes, indeed, the calendar reads Dec. 24, Carroll kicked in to a cheerful Santa-esque phase that carried on through the rest of the morning's meetings.
"It's like we're living in an orphanage on Christmas," Carroll joked to his players during the morning team meeting before transitioning into a more serious holiday spirit. "We're celebrating Christmas together -- it's a beautiful thing. This is as unique a situation as you could have on Christmas, but it's pretty cool to be here together like this."
Is it Christmas Eve?
When notified that, yes, indeed, the calendar reads Dec. 24, Carroll kicked in to a cheerful Santa-esque phase that carried on through the rest of the morning's meetings.
"It's like we're living in an orphanage on Christmas," Carroll joked to his players during the morning team meeting before transitioning into a more serious holiday spirit. "We're celebrating Christmas together -- it's a beautiful thing. This is as unique a situation as you could have on Christmas, but it's pretty cool to be here together like this."
SAN FRANCISCO -- The urgency and excitement for Saturday's Emerald Bowl is becoming more and more palpable by the day.
"We're in football mode now," a noticeably energized Coach Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "It's Thursday -- we're really close!"
The Trojans have just today's practice, tomorrow's walk-thru and Saturday's game remaining before the 2009 season is laid to rest.
"This is it, it's all we got left," Carroll told his players. "So let's max it out."
"We're in football mode now," a noticeably energized Coach Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "It's Thursday -- we're really close!"
The Trojans have just today's practice, tomorrow's walk-thru and Saturday's game remaining before the 2009 season is laid to rest.
"This is it, it's all we got left," Carroll told his players. "So let's max it out."
The kickoff return team watches film of Boston College during this morning's special teams meeting at USC's downtown San Francisco hotel.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Joe McKnight has been cleared to rejoin the team in San Francisco and will resume practicing today, Coach Pete Carroll said this morning.
McKnight, who arrived in San Francisco late Wednesday night, is still awaiting clearance to play in Saturday's Emerald Bowl, but Carroll said he was encouraged by the tailback's return.
"Joe did everything he needed to do compliance-wise in L.A., so it was the right thing to get him up here right away," Carroll said. "Compliance hasn't made a final ruling, but this is a most favorable sign."
McKnight practiced with the Trojans on Monday but remained in southern California through Wednesday to be available for the university's investigation concerning his use of an SUV.
"We'll just play it out and see what happens from here," Carroll said. "In the meantime, it's great to have Joe back with us."
McKnight, who arrived in San Francisco late Wednesday night, is still awaiting clearance to play in Saturday's Emerald Bowl, but Carroll said he was encouraged by the tailback's return.
"Joe did everything he needed to do compliance-wise in L.A., so it was the right thing to get him up here right away," Carroll said. "Compliance hasn't made a final ruling, but this is a most favorable sign."
McKnight practiced with the Trojans on Monday but remained in southern California through Wednesday to be available for the university's investigation concerning his use of an SUV.
"We'll just play it out and see what happens from here," Carroll said. "In the meantime, it's great to have Joe back with us."
SAN FRANCISCO -- Save for the decorations around the hotel, you wouldn't know it's Christmas Eve around the Trojan football machine.
And that's exactly how Coach Carroll wants it.
Not that he's Scrooge -- it's more about remaining on a rigid game-week routine that the players have become accustomed to. Today is No Repeat Thursday for the Trojans, with meetings beginning at 9 a.m. and then a half-pads practice set for 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco.
The "day before the day before" is here, as kickoff of the Emerald Bowl is now just a little more than 48 hours away.
And that's exactly how Coach Carroll wants it.
Not that he's Scrooge -- it's more about remaining on a rigid game-week routine that the players have become accustomed to. Today is No Repeat Thursday for the Trojans, with meetings beginning at 9 a.m. and then a half-pads practice set for 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco.
The "day before the day before" is here, as kickoff of the Emerald Bowl is now just a little more than 48 hours away.
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Dispatch from Wednesday's practice
- Pictures from Wednesday's practice
- Working out on the road: Lifting weights after practice
- All patched up: Emerald Bowl logo on jerseys
- Traveling to Alcatraz: O'Dowd's entertaining video report
- Seeing a landmark: Trojans visit Golden Gate Bridge
SAN FRANCISCO -- Game day is getting closer and Emerald Bowl week is coming to an end quicker than you can fathom.
Believe it or not, Thursday -- known as "the day before the day before" at USC -- is already upon the Trojans. It'll include meetings, practice, a team dinner, optional Christmas Eve services and plenty of free time to enjoy San Francisco. Here's a look at the team's schedule for Thursday:
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
10:15 a.m. • Depart hotel for City College of San Francisco
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
6 p.m. • Team dinner at local restaurant
9 p.m. • Optional Christmas Eve services at team hotel
12 midnight • Curfew
Believe it or not, Thursday -- known as "the day before the day before" at USC -- is already upon the Trojans. It'll include meetings, practice, a team dinner, optional Christmas Eve services and plenty of free time to enjoy San Francisco. Here's a look at the team's schedule for Thursday:
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
10:15 a.m. • Depart hotel for City College of San Francisco
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
6 p.m. • Team dinner at local restaurant
9 p.m. • Optional Christmas Eve services at team hotel
12 midnight • Curfew
SAN FRANCISCO -- While many Trojans hit the town during their free time each night, several players remain in the hotel for some good old fashioned fun.
A players' hospitality suite has been set up through a collaborative effort among the Westin St. Francis, Emerald Bowl and USC, and the room features arcade games, a ping pong table, a pool table, a foosball table, internet access and two Playstation 3s. The suite opens each night and remains available until curfew. Come inside for a look into how many players are spending their free time during Emerald Bowl week:
Wideout Ronald Johnson (right) and tailback Curtis McNeal (left) play H-O-R-S-E on the arcade basketball game.
Fullback Stanley Havili competes in a game of ping pong.
Wideout De'Von Flournoy hits the billiards table.
Kicker Jordan Congdon and linebacker Uona Kaveinga play a football video game on Playstation 3.
A players' hospitality suite has been set up through a collaborative effort among the Westin St. Francis, Emerald Bowl and USC, and the room features arcade games, a ping pong table, a pool table, a foosball table, internet access and two Playstation 3s. The suite opens each night and remains available until curfew. Come inside for a look into how many players are spending their free time during Emerald Bowl week:
Wideout Ronald Johnson (right) and tailback Curtis McNeal (left) play H-O-R-S-E on the arcade basketball game.
Fullback Stanley Havili competes in a game of ping pong.
Wideout De'Von Flournoy hits the billiards table.
Kicker Jordan Congdon and linebacker Uona Kaveinga play a football video game on Playstation 3.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Emerald Bowl week fun continues on with a trip to
the Punch Line Comedy Club for the Trojans, who are departing their
team hotel in a few minutes and heading to the downtown venue for the
next few hours.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Emerald Bowl on Saturday will be the 285th consecutive USC football game that the Trojan Marching Band has attended, a streak that started in 1987.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Worth $68 million, USC is the 15th most valuable team in college football, according to this Forbes article. The Trojans are also 62 percent more valuable than any other team in the Pac-10. Thanks to RipsIt reader Shirley Huang for sending the article in.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out this excellent feature on Jeff Byers, from today's O.C. Register.
Offensive lineman Jeff Byers, linebacker Michael Morgan and offensive lineman Alex Parsons pose for a picture at the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the stops on USC's San Francisco city bus tour this afternoon.
SAN FRANCISCO -- An optional city bus tour for the Trojans is about to depart the team hotel, with an estimated return set for 5 p.m. The team also has a visit to a local comedy club set for 7 p.m. tonight.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Come along with the Trojans to Alcatraz Island on Tuesday in this free video from USCTrojans.com, produced by Mark Haas and Rob McPherson. The entertaining piece is masterfully hosted by center Kristofer O'Dowd.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Bowl week traditionally means bonus time on buses, with several trips to and from practices, entertainment events and the game site.
And how exactly do the Trojans spend that downtime? Most players pull out their iPods, take catnaps or partake in bonding activities such as debating the latest hot topic or just simply talking. Coaches, meanwhile, maximize the bus time by sending e-mails to recruits or studying the practice scripts and game plan.
On this morning's bus ride to practice, tight ends coach Brennan Carroll (left) and offensive line coach Pat Ruel (right) type out e-mails on their smartphones as they maximize the time spent on the road during bowl week.
And how exactly do the Trojans spend that downtime? Most players pull out their iPods, take catnaps or partake in bonding activities such as debating the latest hot topic or just simply talking. Coaches, meanwhile, maximize the bus time by sending e-mails to recruits or studying the practice scripts and game plan.
On this morning's bus ride to practice, tight ends coach Brennan Carroll (left) and offensive line coach Pat Ruel (right) type out e-mails on their smartphones as they maximize the time spent on the road during bowl week.
Each player receives six tickets to the bowl game, an increase from the four tickets players get for regular-season games.
The Emerald Bowl patch has been affixed to the USC cardinal home jerseys, which the Trojans will wear for Saturday's game against Boston College.
Joe Tessitore, the ESPN announcer selected to call the Emerald Bowl for the national broadcast on Saturday, is an alumnus of Boston College.
The Emerald Bowl is now just three days away. Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow the USC-Boston College matchup on Saturday:
- Kickoff: 5:06 p.m.
- National TV: ESPN (Joe Tessitore, Rod Gilmore, Todd Harris)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
Immediately after Wednesday's practice at City College of San Francisco, USC's defensive players cycled through a quick circuit workout in the school's weight room, following the same plan the offensive players completed on Tuesday. All players will be in for a "TV Arms" workout following Thursday's practice.
USC coaches and players join the Boston College traveling party and hundreds of fans at the Emerald Bowl Kickoff Luncheon at the Westin St. Francis in downtown San Francisco today.
The Trojans get their Wednesday practice started at City College of San Francisco.
The kickoff team goes through a rep with the San Francisco Bay in the distance.
As a service team quarterback, Coach Carroll launches a deep ball.
Mitch Mustain runs out of a handoff to C.J. Gable, who takes it up the middle.
Under a bright winter sun, Matt Barkley passes to the left during a two-minute drill.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Thoughts from Wednesday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- With the game plan fully installed, the Trojans used this morning's workout as a review, crisply honing the plays they'll use on Saturday in the Emerald Bowl on a crystal-clear day at City College of San Francisco. "What a perfect day," Coach Carroll said, referring to both the weather and the Trojans' sharp performance in practice. "It was as good as you could ask for."
- The Trojans concluded the quick half-pads practice with a two-minute drill for each the offense and defense. Facing the second-team defense, the first-team offense drove 65 yards in 1:20, ending with a 15-yard touchdown pass from Matt Barkley to Damian Williams. "That's a great job," Carroll elatedly exclaimed after the series. In its two-minute drill, the first-team defense, going against the second-team offense, held strong and forced a 46-yard field goal, which was missed.
- In their second-to-last practice in pads, the Trojans impressed Carroll with their energy on Wednesday morning, carrying a buzz they've had all week. "The guys seem very spirited and into it," Carroll said. "I'm very happy with how the preparation is coming."
- Carroll continued to rave about the play of cornerback Shareece Wright. "He looks really good," Carroll said. "It's hard to keep him out."
- USC will conduct its final padded practice of the season on Thursday at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco before holding a walk-thru at AT&T Park on Friday afternoon.
- With the game plan fully installed, the Trojans used this morning's workout as a review, crisply honing the plays they'll use on Saturday in the Emerald Bowl on a crystal-clear day at City College of San Francisco. "What a perfect day," Coach Carroll said, referring to both the weather and the Trojans' sharp performance in practice. "It was as good as you could ask for."
- The Trojans concluded the quick half-pads practice with a two-minute drill for each the offense and defense. Facing the second-team defense, the first-team offense drove 65 yards in 1:20, ending with a 15-yard touchdown pass from Matt Barkley to Damian Williams. "That's a great job," Carroll elatedly exclaimed after the series. In its two-minute drill, the first-team defense, going against the second-team offense, held strong and forced a 46-yard field goal, which was missed.
- In their second-to-last practice in pads, the Trojans impressed Carroll with their energy on Wednesday morning, carrying a buzz they've had all week. "The guys seem very spirited and into it," Carroll said. "I'm very happy with how the preparation is coming."
- Carroll continued to rave about the play of cornerback Shareece Wright. "He looks really good," Carroll said. "It's hard to keep him out."
- USC will conduct its final padded practice of the season on Thursday at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco before holding a walk-thru at AT&T Park on Friday afternoon.
SAN FRANCISCO -- USC is leaving its downtown hotel for the last Turnover Wednesday practice of the year, the finale being held at City College of San Francisco beginning at 9:30 a.m. The Trojans will then bus back immediately after the workout for the Emerald Bowl Kickoff Luncheon with both squads at the team hotel.
Here's a look inside the Trojans' locker room at City College of San Francisco, USC's home away from Howard Jones Field and Heritage Hall this week. Players' gear is hung from the netting in each locker. All the team's laundry is completed at the college by the school's equipment staff, in conjunction with USC's equipment department.
Safety Drew McAllister chooses from an abundant breakfast buffet in a hotel ballroom this morning. The lavish first meal of the day -- which includes eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, omelets, waffles, pastries, fruit and potatoes -- is offered each morning for the players and coaches during bowl week.
SAN FRANCISCO -- On game day at AT&T Park, the Trojans will be dropped off and enter the stadium at the corner of 2nd and King at the northern corner of the venue (closest to the left-field foul pole). Arrival at AT&T Park is estimated for 3:25 p.m. on Saturday.
Coach Carroll (middle) leads a staff meeting in a hotel conference room this morning prior to the Trojans' 9:30 a.m. practice at City College of San Francisco. "We've got two more practices -- what do you got left?" Carroll asked his assistants. "We gotta bring the energy today!"
SAN FRANCISCO -- They're getting started early today.
Wakeup calls have already rung for the Trojans on another beautiful morning in San Francisco, and the team will leave its downtown hotel for City College of San Francisco at 9 a.m. Practice will be up at 9:30 to kick off another action-packed day by the Bay, which will include practice, a bowl luncheon, a city tour and a trip to the comedy club.
Wakeup calls have already rung for the Trojans on another beautiful morning in San Francisco, and the team will leave its downtown hotel for City College of San Francisco at 9 a.m. Practice will be up at 9:30 to kick off another action-packed day by the Bay, which will include practice, a bowl luncheon, a city tour and a trip to the comedy club.
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Beautiful days: Nice weather in the Bay Area
- Sticking to the routine: Nothing changes for USC's business
- Dispatch from Tuesday's practice
- Pictures from Tuesday's practice
- Meet the press: Emerald Bowl media day
- Escaping to Alcatraz: Visiting the landmark
- Touring the facilities: Roaming AT&T Park
SAN FRANCISCO -- It's already almost hump day of Emerald Bowl week, as a hectic, eventful Day 2 has come to a close. Tuesday included meetings, practice, a press conference, a trip to Alcatraz, more meetings and some free time. Here's a look at what's on tap for Wednesday:
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Depart hotel for practice
9:30 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
11:45 a.m. • Return to team hotel
12 p.m. • Emerald Bowl Kickoff Luncheon
3 p.m. • San Francisco city bus tour
7 p.m. • Depart team hotel for local comedy club
10 p.m. • Return to team hotel
1 a.m. • Curfew
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Depart hotel for practice
9:30 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
11:45 a.m. • Return to team hotel
12 p.m. • Emerald Bowl Kickoff Luncheon
3 p.m. • San Francisco city bus tour
7 p.m. • Depart team hotel for local comedy club
10 p.m. • Return to team hotel
1 a.m. • Curfew
SAN FRANCISCO -- Hear what Coach Carroll, Damian Williams, Taylor Mays and Jeff Byers are saying as the Trojans prepare for the Emerald Bowl in this free video from today's press conference, courtesy of USCTrojans.com and producer Mark Haas.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Following Tuesday afternoon's Emerald Bowl press conference at AT&T Park, the Trojan contingent snuck out to explore the stadium for a few minutes, giving Taylor Mays, Damian Williams and Jeff Byers a sneak peak at the venue they'll be playing in on Saturday night.
Their eyes lit up while walking up the dugout stairs and roaming the field, and they got a kick out of the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, which will serve as USC's locker room on game day. Coach Carroll, the lifelong Giants fan, served as the unofficial tour guide, and when he walked past a print of the epic picture of Willie Mays' over-the-head catch in center field, he raved about the Hall-of-Famer.
Well, at least until he was interrupted.
"That's my uncle!" Taylor Mays joked, earning several laughs from his coach and teammates.
(From left to right) Damian Williams, Coach Carroll, Jeff Byers and Taylor Mays pose for a picture at AT&T Park on Tuesday afternoon.
Taylor Mays sits in the Giants dugout and jokingly calls the bullpen.
Damian Williams and Coach Carroll estimate where home plate would be if the baseball diamond was still in place at AT&T Park. Taylor Mays and Jeff Byers look on.
Their eyes lit up while walking up the dugout stairs and roaming the field, and they got a kick out of the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, which will serve as USC's locker room on game day. Coach Carroll, the lifelong Giants fan, served as the unofficial tour guide, and when he walked past a print of the epic picture of Willie Mays' over-the-head catch in center field, he raved about the Hall-of-Famer.
Well, at least until he was interrupted.
"That's my uncle!" Taylor Mays joked, earning several laughs from his coach and teammates.
(From left to right) Damian Williams, Coach Carroll, Jeff Byers and Taylor Mays pose for a picture at AT&T Park on Tuesday afternoon.
Taylor Mays sits in the Giants dugout and jokingly calls the bullpen.
Damian Williams and Coach Carroll estimate where home plate would be if the baseball diamond was still in place at AT&T Park. Taylor Mays and Jeff Byers look on.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans became tourists on Tuesday afternoon.
Joining Boston College players and coaches, the USC traveling party took a ferry to Alcatraz Island this afternoon for a tour of the legendary landmark before returning to San Francisco a few hours later. Check out some photos from the entertaining event hosted by the Emerald Bowl:
Safety Taylor Mays snaps a picture of the San Francisco skyline as the boat makes its way to Alcatraz.
Coach Carroll stands at the bow of the boat with Alcatraz straight ahead.
With the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island in his vision, Matt Barkley gazes out over San Francisco Bay from the boat en route to the prison.
Wideout Ronald Johnson walks among the cells at Alcatraz.
Defensive lineman Christian Tupou (left) and linebacker Uona Kaveinga (right) sit in a cell at Alcatraz.
Wideout Jordan Cameron looks out over the bay toward the Golden Gate Bridge.
Offensive lineman Khaled Holmes gazes over the San Francisco skyline from Alcatraz Island
With the skyline in the background, center Kristofer O'Dowd (left) interviews Matt Barkley (right) for USCTrojans.com. [Photo by Mitch Mustain]
Joining Boston College players and coaches, the USC traveling party took a ferry to Alcatraz Island this afternoon for a tour of the legendary landmark before returning to San Francisco a few hours later. Check out some photos from the entertaining event hosted by the Emerald Bowl:
Safety Taylor Mays snaps a picture of the San Francisco skyline as the boat makes its way to Alcatraz.
Coach Carroll stands at the bow of the boat with Alcatraz straight ahead.
With the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island in his vision, Matt Barkley gazes out over San Francisco Bay from the boat en route to the prison.
Wideout Ronald Johnson walks among the cells at Alcatraz.
Defensive lineman Christian Tupou (left) and linebacker Uona Kaveinga (right) sit in a cell at Alcatraz.
Wideout Jordan Cameron looks out over the bay toward the Golden Gate Bridge.
Offensive lineman Khaled Holmes gazes over the San Francisco skyline from Alcatraz Island
With the skyline in the background, center Kristofer O'Dowd (left) interviews Matt Barkley (right) for USCTrojans.com. [Photo by Mitch Mustain]
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans just returned to their downtown hotel after a trip to Alcatraz Island. And thanks to a trademark Coach Carroll curveball, they're back in football meetings, as Carroll essentially bumped up Wednesday morning's meetings to tonight so the players will be able to sleep in tomorrow morning.
They'll go through the normal meeting routine -- special teams, team, offense/defense and position groups -- until about 9 p.m., when the players will then get the rest of the night off.
They'll go through the normal meeting routine -- special teams, team, offense/defense and position groups -- until about 9 p.m., when the players will then get the rest of the night off.
SAN FRANCISCO -- A busy day is about to get busier.
And also a lot more fun.
Following a day filled with meetings, practice and an Emerald Bowl press conference for certain players, the Trojans are now boarding buses for the pier and then taking a ferry out to Alcatraz Island. The iconic prison will be closed to everyone except the USC and Boston College traveling parties, which will get the run of the place for a few hours before returning to the city around 7 tonight.
We'll return with photos from the trip later on tonight.
And also a lot more fun.
Following a day filled with meetings, practice and an Emerald Bowl press conference for certain players, the Trojans are now boarding buses for the pier and then taking a ferry out to Alcatraz Island. The iconic prison will be closed to everyone except the USC and Boston College traveling parties, which will get the run of the place for a few hours before returning to the city around 7 tonight.
We'll return with photos from the trip later on tonight.
SAN FRANCISCO -- A handful of field-level, sideline seats in the Trojan allotment for the Emerald Bowl are still available, so go here to get tickets in the official USC sections for the Dec. 26 game at AT&T Park.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
SAN FRANCISCO -- Frank Jordan, the USC kicker who made game-winning field goals against UCLA and Notre Dame in 1977 and 1978, respectively, attended the Trojans' practice at City College of San Francisco today.
SAN FRANCISCO -- A special ESPN feature on Stafon Johnson will air on SportsCenter on Thursday night at 8 p.m.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Jaden Schneider, the oldest daughter of special teams coach Brian Schneider, is celebrating her 11th birthday today.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Christmas came a few days early for the Trojans.
On Monday night, the players received their bowl gifts, which included a Hewlett Packard netbook, a $335 Best Buy gift card, an Armor Gear backpack with the Emerald Bowl logo, a Fossil watch with the bowl logo and a black Emerald Bowl hat.
On Monday night, the players received their bowl gifts, which included a Hewlett Packard netbook, a $335 Best Buy gift card, an Armor Gear backpack with the Emerald Bowl logo, a Fossil watch with the bowl logo and a black Emerald Bowl hat.
Workers begin painting the yard lines and end zones on the AT&T Park field this afternoon, with kickoff of the Emerald Bowl now just four days away.
Coach Carroll addresses the media during this afternoon's Emerald Bowl press conference at AT&T Park.
Offensive lineman Jeff Byers gets interviewed by a local cable sports station at AT&T Park this afternoon.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Emerald Bowl has just 800 tickets remaining for Saturday's game and officials are expecting a sellout for the matchup featuring USC and Boston College at AT&T Park.
The Trojans go through stretching lines at the City College of San Francisco.
Defensive end Everson Griffen flies through agility bags.
Wideout Damian Williams readies to a catch a pass against the coverage of cornerback T.J. Bryant.
Matt Barkley gets off a pass during 7-on-7 period.
Mitch Mustain winds up to throw in team drills.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Thoughts from Tuesday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- On a cool, flawless day in northern California, the Trojan offense dominated throughout the full-pads practice at City College of San Francisco, cruising to wins in both 7-on-7 drills and team period and leaving just three workouts until the Emerald Bowl. The offense's 10-5 victory in practice-ending 11-on-11 drills was capped off with a euphoric rendition of the USC fight song from the offensive players. "Let's make every practice we get the only things on our minds," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "We've got to max out every chance we get. Every day counts."
- Tailback Joe McKnight missed practice as he attended to compliance-related business at USC. Fellow tailback Allen Bradford would get the start in McKnight's place if he does not return this week. "Right now, we have to go with the guys that are here," Carroll said. "Really, it's out of our hands right now."
- Tuesday's workout was the first of three on the FieldTurf-based stadium at City College of San Francisco, and Carroll gave his approval for the facilities and the logistics of practicing at a new location. "It went fine," he said. "It was a pretty normal practice today."
- Bradford had several long, powerful runs during 11-on-11 drills.
- Matt Barkley led the offense to a 5-0 start in 7-on-7 period before sailing to an 8-4 win.
- Just like they do for practices at USC, the Trojans hired referees to officiate the workout, giving it a more game-like feel.
- On a cool, flawless day in northern California, the Trojan offense dominated throughout the full-pads practice at City College of San Francisco, cruising to wins in both 7-on-7 drills and team period and leaving just three workouts until the Emerald Bowl. The offense's 10-5 victory in practice-ending 11-on-11 drills was capped off with a euphoric rendition of the USC fight song from the offensive players. "Let's make every practice we get the only things on our minds," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "We've got to max out every chance we get. Every day counts."
- Tailback Joe McKnight missed practice as he attended to compliance-related business at USC. Fellow tailback Allen Bradford would get the start in McKnight's place if he does not return this week. "Right now, we have to go with the guys that are here," Carroll said. "Really, it's out of our hands right now."
- Tuesday's workout was the first of three on the FieldTurf-based stadium at City College of San Francisco, and Carroll gave his approval for the facilities and the logistics of practicing at a new location. "It went fine," he said. "It was a pretty normal practice today."
- Bradford had several long, powerful runs during 11-on-11 drills.
- Matt Barkley led the offense to a 5-0 start in 7-on-7 period before sailing to an 8-4 win.
- Just like they do for practices at USC, the Trojans hired referees to officiate the workout, giving it a more game-like feel.
SAN FRANCISCO -- USC is minutes away from departing its team hotel and heading to City College of San Francisco for the final Competition Tuesday practice of the 2009 season. Immediately after, select players and Coach Carroll will go to AT&T Park for an Emerald Bowl press conference.
We'll return this afternoon with a report from the practice and presser.
We'll return this afternoon with a report from the practice and presser.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The end is near for the 2009 strength and conditioning program.
What started Jan. 12 and has covered hundreds of workouts since, the year-long strength and conditioning regimen will come to a close this week. The offensive players will conduct a quick circuit workout at City College of San Francisco following today's practice, the defensive players will lift on Wednesday and then all players will go through TV Arms on Thursday to wrap up 2009's workouts.
In case you're wondering, the 2010 strength and conditioning program will begin on Jan. 11, just two weeks after the Emerald Bowl.
What started Jan. 12 and has covered hundreds of workouts since, the year-long strength and conditioning regimen will come to a close this week. The offensive players will conduct a quick circuit workout at City College of San Francisco following today's practice, the defensive players will lift on Wednesday and then all players will go through TV Arms on Thursday to wrap up 2009's workouts.
In case you're wondering, the 2010 strength and conditioning program will begin on Jan. 11, just two weeks after the Emerald Bowl.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Though in a nondescript hotel conference room in a distant city, USC's pre-practice team meeting this morning seemed just like the Trojans were at home in Heritage Hall.
Players removed their hats, the wide receivers sat in the front row, the offensive linemen filled in the back row and players sat and listened intently to Coach Carroll at the front of the room.
And, oh yeah, it's Competition Tuesday no matter what city they're in or what room serves as their meeting location.
"This is Competition Tuesday!" Carroll giddily exclaimed near the start of this morning's team meeting. "It's a different setting, but we have to make it what it is -- competition day!"
Players are currently in position group meetings. The team will depart its downtown hotel and then bus to City College of San Francisco for an 11 a.m. practice.
Coach Carroll addresses his players during this morning's team meeting in a hotel conference room.
Players removed their hats, the wide receivers sat in the front row, the offensive linemen filled in the back row and players sat and listened intently to Coach Carroll at the front of the room.
And, oh yeah, it's Competition Tuesday no matter what city they're in or what room serves as their meeting location.
"This is Competition Tuesday!" Carroll giddily exclaimed near the start of this morning's team meeting. "It's a different setting, but we have to make it what it is -- competition day!"
Players are currently in position group meetings. The team will depart its downtown hotel and then bus to City College of San Francisco for an 11 a.m. practice.
Coach Carroll addresses his players during this morning's team meeting in a hotel conference room.
SAN FRANCISCO -- What a way to start Day 2 of Emerald Bowl week.
With Gap Band's "Early in the Morning" playing from speakers, Coach Carroll paraded into this morning's team meeting from a side door to the hotel conference room.
Well, maybe "parade" isn't the best choice of words. It was more like dancing and moon-walking to the tunes as the players looked on amused. He boogied for a few more moments before bursting out in excitement.
"Get waked up!" Carroll blurted out, eliciting hearty whoops from his players. "Let's go!"
With Gap Band's "Early in the Morning" playing from speakers, Coach Carroll paraded into this morning's team meeting from a side door to the hotel conference room.
Well, maybe "parade" isn't the best choice of words. It was more like dancing and moon-walking to the tunes as the players looked on amused. He boogied for a few more moments before bursting out in excitement.
"Get waked up!" Carroll blurted out, eliciting hearty whoops from his players. "Let's go!"
At the hotel this morning, defensive lineman Armond Armstead gets his ankles taped by assistant athletic trainer Chris Grosskopf. Most players will do the same prior to this morning's meetings, since it'll be a whirlwind going from meetings to the bus to the practice site in a matter of hours.
Offensive coaches, with a guest appearance from Coach Carroll, are up and working bright and early this morning in a hotel meeting room as they break down practice film from Monday and lay out the plan for today's 11 a.m. workout.
Defensive end Everson Griffen is celebrating his 22nd birthday today.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans are waking up to magnificent weather in the Bay Area this morning.
They better get used to it -- the forecast calls for some pretty nice conditions for the remainder of their Emerald Bowl trip. Rain is an unlikelihood and temperatures will be relatively pleasant through Saturday. Take a look at the week's forecast for San Francisco, according to weather.com:
Tuesday • Mostly sunny, high of 53, low of 41, 10% chance of rain
Wednesday • Sunny, high of 56, low of 42, 0% chance of rain
Thursday • Partly cloudy, high of 56, low of 44, 0% chance of rain
Friday • Mostly sunny, high of 57, low of 47, 10% chance of rain
Saturday • Cloudy, high of 56, low of 47, 20% chance of rain
They better get used to it -- the forecast calls for some pretty nice conditions for the remainder of their Emerald Bowl trip. Rain is an unlikelihood and temperatures will be relatively pleasant through Saturday. Take a look at the week's forecast for San Francisco, according to weather.com:
Tuesday • Mostly sunny, high of 53, low of 41, 10% chance of rain
Wednesday • Sunny, high of 56, low of 42, 0% chance of rain
Thursday • Partly cloudy, high of 56, low of 44, 0% chance of rain
Friday • Mostly sunny, high of 57, low of 47, 10% chance of rain
Saturday • Cloudy, high of 56, low of 47, 20% chance of rain
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Having fun while staying focused: During bowl week
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Monday's practice report
- Pictures from Monday's practice
- In the Bay Area: Traveling to San Francisco
- A Better LA Christmas party: Pictures and recap
- Night on the town: Enjoying free time in SF
- Three's company: Trojans score big on MNF
- Home away from home: USC team hotel
SAN FRANCISCO -- Day 1 of Emerald Bowl week has come to a close, with curfew just about an hour away. Here's a look at Tuesday's agenda for the Trojans as Saturday's game inches closer:
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Meetings begin
10:15 a.m. • Buses depart team hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at City College of San Francisco
11 a.m. • Practice begins
1 p.m. • Buses depart CCSF
1:15 p.m. • Arrive at team hotel
3:45 p.m. • Depart team hotel for Pier 33
4 p.m. • Alcatraz tour
7 p.m. • Return to team hotel
1 a.m. • Curfew
7:30 a.m. • Wakeup call
9 a.m. • Meetings begin
10:15 a.m. • Buses depart team hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at City College of San Francisco
11 a.m. • Practice begins
1 p.m. • Buses depart CCSF
1:15 p.m. • Arrive at team hotel
3:45 p.m. • Depart team hotel for Pier 33
4 p.m. • Alcatraz tour
7 p.m. • Return to team hotel
1 a.m. • Curfew
USC's majestic team hotel is situated in Union Square in the heart of San Francisco, an energetic city fantastically adorned with Christmas decorations this month.
Three Trojans scored touchdowns in tonight's New York Giants-Washington Redskins game -- wideout Steve Smith (a six-yard reception), tight end Fred Davis (an 11-yard catch) and cornerback Terrell Thomas (a 14-yard interception return).
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans now have the rest of the night off to explore San Francisco and see the sights, but they're not going into the free time blind and uninformed.
As if he was an employee of the tourism bureau of San Francisco, Coach Carroll shared the city's highlights and must-see locales with his players during tonight's welcome dinner at the team hotel. He also gave a multimedia geography lesson of the main areas of San Francisco so his players know where Fisherman's Wharf, the Embarcadero and other key points are.
The Trojans do have some restraints for the night ahead. Curfew is set for 1 a.m., and always intimidating linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr., the de facto curfew checker, made sure the players were aware of the importance of following the team's curfew rule.
"That really means 12:30," Norton bellowed out to the players during tonight's Emerald Bowl welcome dinner. "We don't mess with bed check."
As if he was an employee of the tourism bureau of San Francisco, Coach Carroll shared the city's highlights and must-see locales with his players during tonight's welcome dinner at the team hotel. He also gave a multimedia geography lesson of the main areas of San Francisco so his players know where Fisherman's Wharf, the Embarcadero and other key points are.
The Trojans do have some restraints for the night ahead. Curfew is set for 1 a.m., and always intimidating linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr., the de facto curfew checker, made sure the players were aware of the importance of following the team's curfew rule.
"That really means 12:30," Norton bellowed out to the players during tonight's Emerald Bowl welcome dinner. "We don't mess with bed check."
Coach Carroll speaks to the Trojans during the Emerald Bowl welcome dinner tonight in the team's downtown San Francisco hotel.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Emerald Bowl activities are beginning now with a welcome dinner for the team in a second-floor hotel ballroom.
Check out this recap and a few photos from A Better LA's Christmas party on Saturday (thanks to Scot Obler for the photos and info):
A Better LA co-hosted a party for an estimated 3,500 neighborhood guests on Saturday at Helen Keller Park in the West Athens area of Los Angeles. The annual party (which was started four years ago by British Academy of Films and Television Arts, the Parks Department and C.U.R.E. for a small group of about 50 people) has grown into a much-anticipated and appreciated mega-event.
People in attendance were treated to over one ton of barbequed meats, courtesy of Todd's Out of This World Barbeque and his sponsors Bristol Farm, Farmer John and Simple Green, plus side dishes and drinks. Almost 2,000 pairs of donated Sketchers and Converse shoes were distributed to the kids, who then played on giant inflatable obstacle courses, slides and attractions (just like the ones at Fan Fest before USC football games) plus carnival games, small train, cotton candy and even a field of snow!
But the highlight was receiving the free gifts that were collected in the toy drive at the Coliseum plus donated items from LeapFrog, the LA County Fire Department and others. The annual event was produced by A Better LA non-profit partner, A Foundation for Kids. Representatives from the various groups spoke briefly, as did Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, and celebrated the day and what has been accomplished through the collective efforts of all involved -- most importantly including the members of the community.
An opportunity to sit with Santa was a big hit with the kids. The visit from Pete Carroll was popular with everyone. The coach visited with various leaders in the community who are making the peace possible and also handed out toys to the kids, and even tried his hand at the carnival games. Temporary Channel 7 correspondent Jaime Carroll interviewed her dad for the ABC cameras, somehow able to keep a straight face and doing a fantastic job.
A Big thanks to all the volunteers for A Better LA, CURE, BAFTA, USC, Rotary, Wyland Foundation, A Foundation For Kids and Palos Verdes High School that showed up on Saturday and made the event possible. If you would like to make a donation or become involved, you can contact the organization through www.abetterla.org.
After playing Santa, Coach Carroll laughs with a kid at A Better LA's Christmas party on Saturday.
Kids play in the snow at A Better LA's Christmas party on Saturday at Helen Keller Park.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Tailback Joe McKnight did not travel with the team to the Bay Area this afternoon so he could remain at USC and complete compliance-related business, Coach Pete Carroll said.
"He has some paperwork he needs to do and it's best for him to stay in L.A. so he can be available to finish it," Carroll said.
Carroll did not have a timetable for McKnight's return -- "We don't know right now how long this will take," he said.
"He has some paperwork he needs to do and it's best for him to stay in L.A. so he can be available to finish it," Carroll said.
Carroll did not have a timetable for McKnight's return -- "We don't know right now how long this will take," he said.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The Trojans' week-long Emerald Bowl experience has gotten started in the Bay Area.
After some weather- and traffic-related delays, USC finally departed LAX more than an hour late and then had to circle San Francisco International Airport before finally touching down slightly before 5 p.m.
Rain was awaiting USC's arrival in San Francisco, and then the Trojans made a short police-escorted ride to the team's downtown hotel. An Emerald Bowl welcome dinner is set for 6:30 p.m. at the team hotel.
Players go through security at LAX prior to their flight to San Francisco this afternoon.
In a few spare moments prior to their flight, several Trojans grab a bite to eat at McDonald's in the airport terminal.
The Trojans board their flight at LAX.
Wideout Brice Butler walks down the jetway to the team's charter flight bound for San Francisco.
After some weather- and traffic-related delays, USC finally departed LAX more than an hour late and then had to circle San Francisco International Airport before finally touching down slightly before 5 p.m.
Rain was awaiting USC's arrival in San Francisco, and then the Trojans made a short police-escorted ride to the team's downtown hotel. An Emerald Bowl welcome dinner is set for 6:30 p.m. at the team hotel.
Players go through security at LAX prior to their flight to San Francisco this afternoon.
In a few spare moments prior to their flight, several Trojans grab a bite to eat at McDonald's in the airport terminal.
The Trojans board their flight at LAX.
Wideout Brice Butler walks down the jetway to the team's charter flight bound for San Francisco.
Watch out San Francisco -- here come the Trojans.
USC is about to depart campus and head to LAX, where its charter flight is slated to depart at 2 p.m. Scheduled arrival into San Francisco International Airport is set for 3:15 p.m., and then the Trojans will bus directly to their downtown hotel. We'll return with a report from the road after checking in at the hotel later today, but in the meantime, be sure to follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for the latest updates from the trip. And finally, here's a look at the team's schedule for the rest of Day 1 of Emerald Bowl week:
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs LAX
3:15 p.m. • Scheduled arrival at SFO
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner at team hotel
8:30 p.m. • Free time
1 a.m. • Curfew
USC is about to depart campus and head to LAX, where its charter flight is slated to depart at 2 p.m. Scheduled arrival into San Francisco International Airport is set for 3:15 p.m., and then the Trojans will bus directly to their downtown hotel. We'll return with a report from the road after checking in at the hotel later today, but in the meantime, be sure to follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for the latest updates from the trip. And finally, here's a look at the team's schedule for the rest of Day 1 of Emerald Bowl week:
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs LAX
3:15 p.m. • Scheduled arrival at SFO
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner at team hotel
8:30 p.m. • Free time
1 a.m. • Curfew
Wideout Spencer Vigoren and cornerback Shareece Wright go up for a pass in individual drills.
Mitch Mustain winds up for a throw in 7-on-7 drills.
Linebacker Chris Galippo lunges for Matt Barkley in team period.
With their underclassmen teammates forming a tunnel around them, the seniors exit Howard Jones Field for the final time in their USC careers.
Thoughts from Monday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- In their final practice on Howard Jones Field this season, the Trojans began the week-long game plan review process in a snappy half-pads practice. "Bowl week is underway -- it's on us already," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "Now it comes down to who's going to have a better week -- us or Boston College. Let's do our part every day."
- The offense claimed narrow victories in both the 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 periods, with both wins coming on the final play of each period.
- During team drills, cornerback Shareece Wright had an impressive interception on a deep ball and tailback C.J. Gable broke a big run up the middle for the two highlight plays of the day.
- The Trojan offense practiced calling plays from about 50 yards downfield from the huddle to prepare for the sideline oddity they'll see on Saturday at AT&T Park, where the two teams share the same side of the field, which can create long distances between the coaches and players in the game.
- Defensive back Patrick Hall has been academically cleared and will enroll in school in the spring, Carroll announced.
- Per tradition, the seniors ran through a tunnel of underclassmen at the end of practice on their way off of Howard Jones Field for the final time in their careers.
- In their final practice on Howard Jones Field this season, the Trojans began the week-long game plan review process in a snappy half-pads practice. "Bowl week is underway -- it's on us already," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "Now it comes down to who's going to have a better week -- us or Boston College. Let's do our part every day."
- The offense claimed narrow victories in both the 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 periods, with both wins coming on the final play of each period.
- During team drills, cornerback Shareece Wright had an impressive interception on a deep ball and tailback C.J. Gable broke a big run up the middle for the two highlight plays of the day.
- The Trojan offense practiced calling plays from about 50 yards downfield from the huddle to prepare for the sideline oddity they'll see on Saturday at AT&T Park, where the two teams share the same side of the field, which can create long distances between the coaches and players in the game.
- Defensive back Patrick Hall has been academically cleared and will enroll in school in the spring, Carroll announced.
- Per tradition, the seniors ran through a tunnel of underclassmen at the end of practice on their way off of Howard Jones Field for the final time in their careers.
The Trojans just took the field for their first practice of bowl week, so we'll return with a report following the half-pads workout.
In light of the announcement of the three players who have been ruled academically ineligible, tight end Rhett Ellison is expected to start in place of Anthony McCoy and offensive tackle Matt Kalil is expected to fill in for Tyron Smith. Defensive lineman Averell Spicer was among a rotation of several linemen who played.
The Trojans will be men among the people today.
For their six previous road trips this season, the USC traveling party flew out of a side terminal at LAX reserved for charter flights, making the typically painful security process very easy since it was a special setup for the team. But today, the Trojans will be going through Terminal 1 at LAX to fly on a chartered Southwest Airlines plane, meaning they'll be removing their liquids from the bags, taking off their shoes and going through the gauntlet of security tests just like a normal holiday traveler.
For their six previous road trips this season, the USC traveling party flew out of a side terminal at LAX reserved for charter flights, making the typically painful security process very easy since it was a special setup for the team. But today, the Trojans will be going through Terminal 1 at LAX to fly on a chartered Southwest Airlines plane, meaning they'll be removing their liquids from the bags, taking off their shoes and going through the gauntlet of security tests just like a normal holiday traveler.
Tight end Anthony McCoy, offensive tackle Tyron Smith and defensive lineman Averell Spicer have been ruled academically ineligible for the Emerald Bowl on Saturday, Coach Pete Carroll announced this morning.
"We're really disappointed these guys didn't come through," Carroll said. "They had all the help in the world to get it done and they didn't do it."
"We're really disappointed these guys didn't come through," Carroll said. "They had all the help in the world to get it done and they didn't do it."
Free time for college guys in a new city typically spells trouble.
But Coach Carroll is doing his best to reel his players in and make sure things stay under control during the coming week in San Francisco. Over the next five days, the Trojans will have plenty of nights off to roam the town and see the sights following each day's activities, which include meetings, practice and entertainment events such as an Alcatraz visit and city bus tour.
Carroll repeatedly referred to the program's "Rule No. 1" -- always protect the team -- as the players' conscience as they enjoy their free time in San Francisco this week.
"We're going to have a lot of fun, but we need to be together and have fun in our way," Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "It's not like you're sailors cut loose on leave."
And the most fun the Trojans could have on the trip, Carroll reminded them, would be winning the game on Saturday night at AT&T Park.
"As long as you take care of your football, the rest of the stuff takes care of itself," Carroll said. "We've got to have great practices in the midst of the distractions. That's the challenge.
"Wining the football game will be the best aspect of this trip. Everything's got to point to that."
But Coach Carroll is doing his best to reel his players in and make sure things stay under control during the coming week in San Francisco. Over the next five days, the Trojans will have plenty of nights off to roam the town and see the sights following each day's activities, which include meetings, practice and entertainment events such as an Alcatraz visit and city bus tour.
Carroll repeatedly referred to the program's "Rule No. 1" -- always protect the team -- as the players' conscience as they enjoy their free time in San Francisco this week.
"We're going to have a lot of fun, but we need to be together and have fun in our way," Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "It's not like you're sailors cut loose on leave."
And the most fun the Trojans could have on the trip, Carroll reminded them, would be winning the game on Saturday night at AT&T Park.
"As long as you take care of your football, the rest of the stuff takes care of itself," Carroll said. "We've got to have great practices in the midst of the distractions. That's the challenge.
"Wining the football game will be the best aspect of this trip. Everything's got to point to that."
Here's a look at today's schedule for the Trojans on the first day of Emerald Bowl week:
11 a.m. • Practice at USC
1 p.m. • Depart campus for LAX
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs LAX
3:15 p.m. • Scheduled arrival at SFO
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner at team hotel
8:30 p.m. • Free time
1 a.m. • Curfew
11 a.m. • Practice at USC
1 p.m. • Depart campus for LAX
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs LAX
3:15 p.m. • Scheduled arrival at SFO
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner at team hotel
8:30 p.m. • Free time
1 a.m. • Curfew
Student equipment manager Brian Wagner (left) hands a player's luggage off to fellow manager Jarone Ashkenazi (right) outside of Heritage Hall this morning, as the Trojans do a modified baggage check at USC so they don't have to worry about it at LAX this afternoon. The players' luggage will be delivered to the airport and stowed in the belly of USC's charter plane and then transported from San Francisco International Airport to the team's downtown hotel this evening, making the whole process as smooth as possible for the Trojans.
See what happened in Trojan athletics during the last seven days:
- The men's basketball team stunned No. 8 Tennessee with an overpowering 77-55 victory at the Galen Center on Saturday to clinch their third consecutive win and move to 5-4 on the season. The Trojans travel to Hawaii this week for the Diamond Head Classic in Honolulu, where they're set to meet Western Michigan on Tuesday.
- Hosting the Women of Troy Basketball Classic, the women's hoops team dominated both its games this weekend to capture the tournament title. USC is 6-4 so far this season and now has the week off before returning to action Dec. 30 against North Carolina State at the Galen Center.
Find out how USC alumni performed during Week 15 of the NFL season:
- Linebacker Brian Cushing (Houston Texans) had seven tackles and 1/2 sack.
- Quarterback Matt Cassel (Kansas City Chiefs) went 22-for-40 for 331 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.
- Linebacker Junior Seau (New England Patriots) had three tackles.
- Quarterback Carson Palmer (Cincinnati Bengals) went 27-for-40 for 314 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.
- Linebacker Keith Rivers (Cincinnati Bengals) had an interception to go along with three tackles and a sack.
- Linebacker Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati Bengals) had three tackles.
- Linebacker Clay Matthews (Green Bay Packers) had seven tackles, including two sacks.
- Defensive lineman Mike Patterson (Philadelphia Eagles) posted five tackles.
- Quarterback Mark Sanchez (New York Jets) went 18-for-32 for 226 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions.
Welcome to Emerald Bowl week.
Fresh off a weekend-long break, USC gets back to work today, with all eyes squarely on Saturday's game against Boston College. Today's meetings begin at 9:30 a.m. and a half-pads practice will be at 11 a.m. before the Trojans get on their way to the Bay Area. They'll depart campus for LAX at 1 p.m. and then take off for San Francisco International Airport at 2 p.m., with an arrival scheduled for 3:15 p.m.
An Emerald Bowl welcome dinner awaits USC at the team hotel, and then the players will have the night off to explore San Francisco. The Trojans' first NorCal practice will be Tuesday at 11 a.m.
The Emerald Bowl is now just five days away, with kickoff set for 5:06 p.m. on Saturday.
Fresh off a weekend-long break, USC gets back to work today, with all eyes squarely on Saturday's game against Boston College. Today's meetings begin at 9:30 a.m. and a half-pads practice will be at 11 a.m. before the Trojans get on their way to the Bay Area. They'll depart campus for LAX at 1 p.m. and then take off for San Francisco International Airport at 2 p.m., with an arrival scheduled for 3:15 p.m.
An Emerald Bowl welcome dinner awaits USC at the team hotel, and then the players will have the night off to explore San Francisco. The Trojans' first NorCal practice will be Tuesday at 11 a.m.
The Emerald Bowl is now just five days away, with kickoff set for 5:06 p.m. on Saturday.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- USC's long packing list: Equipment needs for San Francisco
- Weather watch: Good conditions expected
- Top 10 of 2009: Top 10 plays of the season
- Just a few left in the season: Remaining practice schedule
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Friday's practice report
- Friday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Here's an e-mail response to the L.A. Times from Scott Schenter, the Santa Monica businessman accused in a Times article of allegedly providing tailback Joe McKnight with an SUV. We are publishing Schenter's email, which was sent Saturday morning, in full and in its original form:
Mr. [Lance] Pugmire [co-writer of the article in question]:
I was very insulted in that you co-authored an article titled, "USC investigating tailback Joe McKnight's use of vehicle" and "rushed" to publish it without comments from myself. My personal life was put in the open without the opportunity to comment (I had to disclose to my wife of the other cars I have purchased or helped buy for other women). I will make a few comments and will also be forwarding my comments to Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times, and other news organizations that I feel should hear from me so they may publish or have it for their records.
I am in Johannesburg, South Africa finalizing a major business deal (more on this later) but the internet is very expensive to use and I had meetings scheduled all week with no time to check the internet. You sent me a list of questions to answer at December 17, 2009 at 10:25 PM and on December 18, 2009 at 6:03 PM you sent me an email saying, " The Times will publish the story regarding your connection to USC running back Joe McKnight in a few hours". I had no chance to respond. In the article you said, "Reached by e-mail this week, Schenter was sent a list of questions regarding his businesses, McKnight and the Land Rover. Since then, he has not responded to multiple requests for answers."
I also want to put on record that I have a strong negative bias toward your paper as I have never forgot the "hatchet job" your staff did in the early 1990's on the Washington Huskies football program and the horrendous journalism your staff did back then. I still have one of my pride possessions parked at Santa Monica Beach, (you didn't see it when you visited my home), my Washington Husky Marching Band Van. There aren't too many of those parked at Santa Monica Beach? I used to have season tickets to the Washington Huskies for more than 15 years. I have never had USC season tickets or have never received tickets from any players or coaches from USC. I lost a bet from a girl from USC and have a "W" permanent tattoo on my ankle because of it. "W" stands for Washington and the Washington Huskies are my passion.
More information:
Johanna Michelle Beltran is a long time family friend and is an employee of Smart Bullets Inc. Smart Bullets Inc. has a patent to turn nuclear wastes into valuable metals, eliminating nuclear wastes and actually turning it into usable materials. The company also, called Smart Bullets because a protein (monoclonal antibody) attaches to a medical isotope (radiation) and attaches itself to the cancer cell and shoots off the radiation only attacking the cancer cell without hurting the healthy cells (this being a smart bullet)! My father, Dr. Robert Schenter, ex-director of National Association of Cancer Patients is the chief scientist and world authority on medical isotope production. We are looking to use this technology for AIDS/HIV, arthritis, cancer, and other diseases. Also, did you see my patent on Actinium-225?
I am the owner of the Land Rover because Michelle's parents couldn't qualify for the loan. It is her car. She makes the payments and she is responsible for insurance. The payments are a little over $500/month (not a big amount).
What is my job? This one really showed your research capabilities! I am an entrepreneur that has his hands in numerous businesses and investment opportunities. My background is in Finance and Marketing. I am in South Africa closing a deal with major corporate sponsorship for the use of my "motion media" signage for Busivision (www.busivision.com). We just signed two huge contracts to distribute the signs in South Africa. The companies you mentioned in the article are two companies that I registered in May 2008, USC Marketing (United States China Marketing) and Brighter. What about Lumabright? I have not done anything with them. Teslavision also was a past partnership. These businesses are in the marketing business but I have nothing to do with agents, marketing players, or representing athletes. I have no experience in this business. What is my real job? I currently work for the Los Angeles County Assessor's office for over 21 years real estate appraising high value properties. You couldn't find that on the internet. I would rather be known for my expertise in my marketing and finance ventures (there are more) but my current job is working for Los Angeles County, I don't like to admit it but it is.
I own so many website domains that I only purchased www.4joemcknight.com (didn't renew) because I thought it was clever along with the many other ones I own/owned. Michelle Beltran knew nothing of this website. I also have uscmarketing.com, uclalove.com (where's the Kevin Love article), stanfordindians.com, 24kobe.com, airkobe.com, trumpcancer.com, shaqcancer.com, caltechbeavers.com, uscromeo.com, and for Scott Wolf, amandapflugrad.com.
I feel this is a start in communication and I hope someone will print my response in its whole. I get back on Tuesday and hope a decision on Joe McKnight is not rushed to judgment until everything is heard. Please respect my personal life and everyone involved.
Scott Schenter
Check out this slideshow of images from Friday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
In response to the L.A. Times article published Friday afternoon about tailback Joe McKnight's driving arrangements, Coach Pete Carroll made a short statement following today's practice.
"I haven't seen the story yet but our compliance staff has and they have this matter under full review," he said shortly after practice this afternoon. "We'll wait and see what happens. I can't comment beyond that."
"I haven't seen the story yet but our compliance staff has and they have this matter under full review," he said shortly after practice this afternoon. "We'll wait and see what happens. I can't comment beyond that."
Thoughts from Friday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- On an ideal afternoon, the Trojans closed out the work week with a brief, crisp half-pads practice that finalized installation of the Boston College game plan, leaving the entire next week as review for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. "It was really important for us to get it right," Coach Carroll said of the game plan. "The preparation has gone well, we've had strong practices and we're in good shape going into the break."
- Tailback Allen Bradford, who injured his knee in Thursday's practice, sat out Friday but "should be fine," Carroll said.
- Cornerback Kevin Thomas tweaked his ankle this week and sat out Friday for precautionary reasons, Carroll said.
- As is the norm for "No Repeat Thursday" practices, a heavy dose of special teams work was sprinkled in throughout the half-pads workout.
- The Trojans will now break for the weekend before reconvening on Monday morning at 9:30 a.m. to begin the final week of Emerald Bowl preparations. The team will leave for San Francisco on Monday at 2 p.m. after a quick morning practice on campus.
- On an ideal afternoon, the Trojans closed out the work week with a brief, crisp half-pads practice that finalized installation of the Boston College game plan, leaving the entire next week as review for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. "It was really important for us to get it right," Coach Carroll said of the game plan. "The preparation has gone well, we've had strong practices and we're in good shape going into the break."
- Tailback Allen Bradford, who injured his knee in Thursday's practice, sat out Friday but "should be fine," Carroll said.
- Cornerback Kevin Thomas tweaked his ankle this week and sat out Friday for precautionary reasons, Carroll said.
- As is the norm for "No Repeat Thursday" practices, a heavy dose of special teams work was sprinkled in throughout the half-pads workout.
- The Trojans will now break for the weekend before reconvening on Monday morning at 9:30 a.m. to begin the final week of Emerald Bowl preparations. The team will leave for San Francisco on Monday at 2 p.m. after a quick morning practice on campus.
It's time for the Trojans to close out their three-day Emerald Bowl game plan installation process, as the players and coaches are taking the field now for their "No Repeat Thursday" practice. We'll return after the half-pads workout with a report.
Following this afternoon's practice, the Trojans will take Saturday and Sunday off before advancing into Emerald Bowl week. Here's a look at USC's practice schedule to close out the 2009 season:
Monday • Practice at 11 a.m. at USC
Tuesday • Practice at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Wednesday • Practice at 9:30 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Thursday • Practice at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Friday • Walk-thru at 4 p.m. at AT&T Park
Saturday • Kickoff at 5:06 p.m.
Monday • Practice at 11 a.m. at USC
Tuesday • Practice at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Wednesday • Practice at 9:30 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Thursday • Practice at 11 a.m. at City College of San Francisco
Friday • Walk-thru at 4 p.m. at AT&T Park
Saturday • Kickoff at 5:06 p.m.
The Emerald Bowl is just eight days away. Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow the USC-Boston College matchup on Dec. 26:
- Kickoff: 5:06 p.m.
- National TV: ESPN (Joe Tessitore, Rod Gilmore, Todd Harris)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
Coach Carroll is one of 10 finalists for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award, and the ultimate stage of fan voting is now in its fourth day. Show your support daily, and if Carroll wins, $50,000 will be donated to A Better LA, the inner-city charity he helped found.
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
The final day of the work week also means it's the final day of the Trojan time shift.
Though the calendar says otherwise, it's "No Repeat Thursday" at USC today, which puts an onus on the players and coaches to be crisp, precise and perfect during this afternoon's workout. A key element of that attitude of exactitude is the penalty issue, something that has clearly plagued the Trojans all season. USC is 101st out of 120 FBS teams with 63.4 penalty yards per game.
And it could be an even bigger factor in the Emerald Bowl next Saturday. Boston College has recorded just 44.7 penalty yards per game, good for 26th in the nation.
"They know what they're doing," Coach Carroll said of the Eagles during this afternoon's team meeting. "We cannot let this be to their advantage this game. We don't want to give them anything."
Though the calendar says otherwise, it's "No Repeat Thursday" at USC today, which puts an onus on the players and coaches to be crisp, precise and perfect during this afternoon's workout. A key element of that attitude of exactitude is the penalty issue, something that has clearly plagued the Trojans all season. USC is 101st out of 120 FBS teams with 63.4 penalty yards per game.
And it could be an even bigger factor in the Emerald Bowl next Saturday. Boston College has recorded just 44.7 penalty yards per game, good for 26th in the nation.
"They know what they're doing," Coach Carroll said of the Eagles during this afternoon's team meeting. "We cannot let this be to their advantage this game. We don't want to give them anything."
A handful of field-level, sideline seats in the Trojan allotment for the Emerald Bowl are still available, so go here to get tickets in the official USC sections for the Dec. 26 game at AT&T Park.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
Bring your laptops to the Emerald Bowl.
AT&T Park features free, high-speed, universal wireless internet throughout all concourses and seating areas, making the stadium one of the largest public wireless hotspots in the world. In 2004, the park became the first professional sports venue in the world to provide wireless access throughout the stadium.
AT&T Park features free, high-speed, universal wireless internet throughout all concourses and seating areas, making the stadium one of the largest public wireless hotspots in the world. In 2004, the park became the first professional sports venue in the world to provide wireless access throughout the stadium.
The Trojans just gathered for the daily special teams meeting, officially kicking off the final day of prep for the week. More meetings follow before a brief, half-pads practice at 3:15 p.m.
USC will then have Saturday and Sunday off prior to reconvening for Emerald Bowl week on Monday morning.
USC will then have Saturday and Sunday off prior to reconvening for Emerald Bowl week on Monday morning.
After two practices this week and four total bowl workouts, the Trojans are practicing at some of their best, most energetic levels Howard Jones Field has seen all season.
Coach Carroll is definitely taking notice.
"We've had two really sharp days of practice," Carroll said during this morning's staff meeting. "The guys are hitting it. This is a really good sequence of work we've had here."
Coach Carroll is definitely taking notice.
"We've had two really sharp days of practice," Carroll said during this morning's staff meeting. "The guys are hitting it. This is a really good sequence of work we've had here."
USC and Boston College had one common opponent this season. The Trojans defeated Notre Dame, 34-27, one week before the Eagles lost to the Irish, 20-16. Both games were in South Bend, Ind.
Check out USCTrojans.com's Top 10 plays of 2009 in this cool video, produced by Mark Haas. Here's our list of 2009's 10 best moments:
10. Joe McKnight's 54-yard zigzagging touchdown run against San Jose State
9. Chris Galippo's interception at Ohio State
8. Safety Will Harris' interception return for a touchdown at Arizona State
7. Wideout Ronald Johnson's diving touchdown catch against Oregon State
6. Linebacker Malcolm Smith's interception return for a touchdown against UCLA
5. Matt Barkley's 48-yard TD to wideout Damian Williams after UCLA called timeout at the end of the game
4. Damian Williams' 75-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown at Arizona State
3. USC's defensive stand to beat Notre Dame at the end of the game -- twice
2. Damian Williams' punt returns for touchdowns against California and Oregon State
1. Stafon Johnson's short game-winning touchdown run at Ohio State
10. Joe McKnight's 54-yard zigzagging touchdown run against San Jose State
9. Chris Galippo's interception at Ohio State
8. Safety Will Harris' interception return for a touchdown at Arizona State
7. Wideout Ronald Johnson's diving touchdown catch against Oregon State
6. Linebacker Malcolm Smith's interception return for a touchdown against UCLA
5. Matt Barkley's 48-yard TD to wideout Damian Williams after UCLA called timeout at the end of the game
4. Damian Williams' 75-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown at Arizona State
3. USC's defensive stand to beat Notre Dame at the end of the game -- twice
2. Damian Williams' punt returns for touchdowns against California and Oregon State
1. Stafon Johnson's short game-winning touchdown run at Ohio State
Tenacious D has been added to the highly entertaining lineup for the Will Ferrell-hosted "Make It Better" event on Feb. 20 at Nokia Theater that will benefit A Better LA. Tickets are on sale now, so be sure to purchase yours before it's they're sold out.
No current Trojans grew up in Massachusetts, leaving very little room for any player connections to Boston College and its home state. In fact, only two lettermen in USC football's 121-year history have hailed from Massachusetts: center Dave Morgan (1959-61) from Natick High and linebacker Lofa Tatupu (2003-04) from Plainville (Wrentham's King Philip Regional High).
The Trojans appear to be bringing the nice southern California weather with them to the Bay next week.
Weather forecasts are calling for partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid-50s on Tuesday through Friday in San Francisco, with the highest chance of precipitation being only 10 percent in that time. The advanced forecast for game day is projecting a high in the mid-50s and just a 30 percent chance of rain.
Weather forecasts are calling for partly cloudy skies and highs in the mid-50s on Tuesday through Friday in San Francisco, with the highest chance of precipitation being only 10 percent in that time. The advanced forecast for game day is projecting a high in the mid-50s and just a 30 percent chance of rain.
This week, Emerald Bowl patches were affixed to the left shoulder portion of the Trojans' cardinal home jerseys in time to be packed up and sent to San Francisco for next week's game against Boston College (Dec. 26 at 5 p.m. at AT&T Park). Here's what the patch looks like:
The USC Alumni Association is hosting an Emerald Bowl game-watching party at ESPN Zone at L.A. Live on Dec. 26. Doors open at 4:30 for the 5 p.m. kickoff. Tickets, which include appetizers, one drink ticket and special USC giveaways in a closed-off section of the restaurant, are $10 per person and can be purchased here.
Packing up for the Emerald Bowl isn't an easy task by any stretch of the imagination.
It's a full-scale operation to load the truck with all the gear and materials from the equipment, strength and conditioning, training and office sectors of the Trojan football machine, one that has taken more than a week of meticulous preparation to ready for. It's a taxing proposition, to say the least.
"We gotta do what we gotta do," director of equipment operations David "Pops" Scott said as preparations wound down toward departure day.
Think of packing up the circus, and then double it.
Instead of the usual one moving truck the Trojans usually employ for road games, USC is sending two loaded-down trucks up the 5 to San Francisco for Emerald Bowl week and the game itself. About eight tons of gear and equipment -- nearly 16,000 pounds of stuff -- will make the 370-mile drive starting Sunday morning and arrive that night, about 24 hours before the USC team charter touches down in the Bay Area to begin a five-day stay leading up to the game next Saturday.
Because a roughly 125-man entourage will be spending six days in a distant city -- practicing, meeting and otherwise preparing for the bowl game -- the packing needs are absurd and almost unbelievable. Just about the only thing USC isn't bringing up to San Francisco is a blocking sled (but, actually, that did nearly become a reality). Take a look at the insane list of many of the things the Trojans are packing up and sending up for Emerald Bowl week:
It's a full-scale operation to load the truck with all the gear and materials from the equipment, strength and conditioning, training and office sectors of the Trojan football machine, one that has taken more than a week of meticulous preparation to ready for. It's a taxing proposition, to say the least.
"We gotta do what we gotta do," director of equipment operations David "Pops" Scott said as preparations wound down toward departure day.
Think of packing up the circus, and then double it.
Instead of the usual one moving truck the Trojans usually employ for road games, USC is sending two loaded-down trucks up the 5 to San Francisco for Emerald Bowl week and the game itself. About eight tons of gear and equipment -- nearly 16,000 pounds of stuff -- will make the 370-mile drive starting Sunday morning and arrive that night, about 24 hours before the USC team charter touches down in the Bay Area to begin a five-day stay leading up to the game next Saturday.
Because a roughly 125-man entourage will be spending six days in a distant city -- practicing, meeting and otherwise preparing for the bowl game -- the packing needs are absurd and almost unbelievable. Just about the only thing USC isn't bringing up to San Francisco is a blocking sled (but, actually, that did nearly become a reality). Take a look at the insane list of many of the things the Trojans are packing up and sending up for Emerald Bowl week:
- Practice equipment: Footballs, agility bags, hoops, cones, tackling bags
- Practice clothing: Shorts, pants, jerseys, pads, cleats, socks, shirts
- Video equipment: Cameras, editing equipment, projectors
- Athletic training: Tape, rehab equipment, stretching equipment
- Strength and conditioning: Dumbbells, weight bars, stretching equipment
- Office: Printer, laminators, reams of paper, scissors, markers
For all intents and purposes, next week's Emerald Bowl matchup is acting as the meat part of the metaphorical USC-Boston College sandwich. With a pair of games in the past and two more in the near future, the Dec. 26 game is the midpoint of the current series between the two proud programs. Here's a look at all the battles between the Trojans and Eagles:
Sept. 19, 1987 • L.A. Coliseum • USC 23-17
Sept. 1, 1988 • Chestnut Hill, Mass. • USC 34-7
Dec. 26, 2009 • San Francisco (Emerald Bowl)
Sept. 14, 2013 • L.A. Coliseum
Sept. 13, 2014 • Chestnut Hill, Mass.
Sept. 19, 1987 • L.A. Coliseum • USC 23-17
Sept. 1, 1988 • Chestnut Hill, Mass. • USC 34-7
Dec. 26, 2009 • San Francisco (Emerald Bowl)
Sept. 14, 2013 • L.A. Coliseum
Sept. 13, 2014 • Chestnut Hill, Mass.
Rooms at the Westin St. Francis, the official USC hotel in San Francisco, are selling out quickly, so be sure to click here to take advantage of the special $149/night rate. You can also make a reservation by calling the hotel directly at (415) 397-7000 and asking for the Emerald Bowl rate.
The last day of the work week has arrived for the Trojans.
USC will meet at 1:15 and practice at 3:15 today and then take the weekend off before embarking on into Emerald Bowl week starting Monday morning. Today is the third and final leg of the three-day game plan installation process, which means the Trojans will know what plays they'll be running next Saturday and be familiar with Boston College, leaving next week's five practices as review and polishing time.
USC will meet at 1:15 and practice at 3:15 today and then take the weekend off before embarking on into Emerald Bowl week starting Monday morning. Today is the third and final leg of the three-day game plan installation process, which means the Trojans will know what plays they'll be running next Saturday and be familiar with Boston College, leaving next week's five practices as review and polishing time.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Must-see TV: Cushing mic'd up
- One in the same: Carroll's experience on the same sideline
- Team of the decade: USC named so by SI
- Good seats remaining: Get your tickets
- Two-sport success: Playing at a baseball stadium
- Bowl week schedule: In San Francisco
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Thursday's practice report
- Thursday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Thursday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
The strong-legged Mitch Mustain, who continues to take reps at punter during some drills, gets off a punt during pre-practice warm-ups.
With jubilant graduate assistant Justin Mesa (left) coaching alongside, fullback Stanley Havili powers through the gauntlet.
The Trojan offense goes through service team work.
Tailback Stafon Johnson watches practice, his first one back since his throat injury on Sept. 28.
Matt Barkley rolls out.
Joe McKnight and Matt Barkley line up in the backfield during team period.
Thoughts from Thursday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- The defense didn't waste too much time claiming the day as their own, as safety Taylor Mays raced across the field and swooped in front of a deep ball along the left sideline for an interception in 7-on-7 period, the defense's first takeaway on Turnover Wednesday since Nov. 4. The play set off a wild celebration by the defensive players, with cornerback Brian Baucham even doing the worm around the field. Cornerback Shareece Wright followed that up with a pick of his own a few plays later, reinforcing the practice's turnover theme on a picturesque afternoon.
- Following the two interceptions in 7-on-7 drills, the offense bounced back with an 11-10 overtime win in the final team period. Spirits soared and tempers raged for the second straight day, as the Trojans playfully and zestfully engaged in trash talk and shoving matches.
- The offense clinched a tight 9-8 victory in 7-on-7 period, highlighted by a deep touchdown pass to walk-on wideout Spencer Vigoren, a play that had his teammates cheering elatedly upon his return to the huddle.
- Tailback Stafon Johnson attended practice, his first one since injuring his throat in a freak weightlifting accident Sept. 28.
- Tailback Allen Bradford banged his knee in a rushing-focused 11-on-11 drill near the beginning of practice and sat out the remainder of the workout. Coach Carroll said Bradford's knee was sore but "totally stable."
- Out for most of the last two months with a stress fracture in his leg, wideout David Ausberry has impressed during the first four workouts of Emerald Bowl preparation and has been declared "ready to go" for the game, Carroll said.
- The defense didn't waste too much time claiming the day as their own, as safety Taylor Mays raced across the field and swooped in front of a deep ball along the left sideline for an interception in 7-on-7 period, the defense's first takeaway on Turnover Wednesday since Nov. 4. The play set off a wild celebration by the defensive players, with cornerback Brian Baucham even doing the worm around the field. Cornerback Shareece Wright followed that up with a pick of his own a few plays later, reinforcing the practice's turnover theme on a picturesque afternoon.
- Following the two interceptions in 7-on-7 drills, the offense bounced back with an 11-10 overtime win in the final team period. Spirits soared and tempers raged for the second straight day, as the Trojans playfully and zestfully engaged in trash talk and shoving matches.
- The offense clinched a tight 9-8 victory in 7-on-7 period, highlighted by a deep touchdown pass to walk-on wideout Spencer Vigoren, a play that had his teammates cheering elatedly upon his return to the huddle.
- Tailback Stafon Johnson attended practice, his first one since injuring his throat in a freak weightlifting accident Sept. 28.
- Tailback Allen Bradford banged his knee in a rushing-focused 11-on-11 drill near the beginning of practice and sat out the remainder of the workout. Coach Carroll said Bradford's knee was sore but "totally stable."
- Out for most of the last two months with a stress fracture in his leg, wideout David Ausberry has impressed during the first four workouts of Emerald Bowl preparation and has been declared "ready to go" for the game, Carroll said.
With today's practice only a few minutes away, Coach Carroll just bounded out of his second-floor Heritage Hall office, blurting out a common phrase on his way out.
"OK, we're rolling!" he exclaimed while jogging out en route to the practice field.
All that goes to say that USC's turnover-themed workout is beginning now on Howard Jones Field, so we'll return afterward with a report.
"OK, we're rolling!" he exclaimed while jogging out en route to the practice field.
All that goes to say that USC's turnover-themed workout is beginning now on Howard Jones Field, so we'll return afterward with a report.
Though it's Thursday for the rest of the world, it's Turnover Wednesday for the Trojans, who are coming off a very impressive practice yesterday.
"A lot of good stuff happened," Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting, referring to Competition "Tuesday" practice on Wednesday. "It was a nice, solid day. But now we need to have another one today."
So the Trojans now turn their attention to this afternoon's turnover-themed workout, with the offense trying to extend its winning streak on the weekly turnover day to four and the defense aiming to record a takeaway on Turnover Wednesday for the first time since Nov. 4.
"A lot of good stuff happened," Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting, referring to Competition "Tuesday" practice on Wednesday. "It was a nice, solid day. But now we need to have another one today."
So the Trojans now turn their attention to this afternoon's turnover-themed workout, with the offense trying to extend its winning streak on the weekly turnover day to four and the defense aiming to record a takeaway on Turnover Wednesday for the first time since Nov. 4.
Sirius XM Radio will broadcast the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl on Sirius channel 120 and XM channel 140. The game will be televised nationally on ESPN.
Cincinnati Bengals wideout Chris Henry died today from injuries suffered after falling from the back of a pickup truck on Wednesday. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.
The Bengals roster features four Trojans, and one -- All-Pro quarterback Carson Palmer -- is continuing to rise up as a team leader during this difficult time. Thanks to RipsIt reader Bob Brown for passing this snippet along from this AP article:
Read more about how the tragedy is affecting the team in this story from the Associated Press.
The Bengals roster features four Trojans, and one -- All-Pro quarterback Carson Palmer -- is continuing to rise up as a team leader during this difficult time. Thanks to RipsIt reader Bob Brown for passing this snippet along from this AP article:
When they learned of [Chris] Henry's death, quarterback Carson Palmer called the players together and suggested they dedicate the rest of the season to the receiver and Vikki Zimmer.
"Carson spoke about one thing ... that Chris was a great competitor,'' said defensive tackle Domata Peko, who often had Henry and his family over to his house. "What he would want us to do is go out and win, not be sad. You're going to go through these times and be sad, but to pull together and dedicate the rest of the season to Chris and coach Zimmer's wife.''
Read more about how the tragedy is affecting the team in this story from the Associated Press.
In a few minutes, the Trojans will convene to commence their afternoon slate of meetings, starting with special teams and then going into team, offense/defense and position group gatherings. A full-pads, turnover-themed practice will begin at 3:15 p.m.
Coach Carroll is one of 10 finalists for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award, and the ultimate stage of fan voting is in its third day. Show your support daily, and if Carroll wins, $50,000 will be donated to A Better LA, the inner-city charity he helped found.
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
It looks like USC has met its match when it comes to recent sustained success.
Besides making its 11th straight bowl appearance, Boston College is riding a streak of nine consecutive eight-win seasons. The Trojans are making their eighth bowl appearance in a row and have now won eight games or more in eight straight seasons.
Besides making its 11th straight bowl appearance, Boston College is riding a streak of nine consecutive eight-win seasons. The Trojans are making their eighth bowl appearance in a row and have now won eight games or more in eight straight seasons.
The Trojans are just four days away from leaving for San Francisco to begin Emerald Bowl week. Take a look at their full agenda for the five days leading up to the game on Dec. 26 (schedule subject to change):
Monday, Dec. 21
9:30 a.m. • Meetings begin at Heritage Hall
11 a.m. • Practice
1 p.m. • Depart USC for LAX
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs for San Francisco International Airport
3:15 p.m. • Arrive in San Francisco
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner
Tuesday, Dec. 22
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
4 p.m. • Alcatraz tour
Wednesday, Dec. 23
7:30 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
9:30 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
11:30 a.m. • Return to team hotel
12 p.m. • Emerald Bowl kickoff luncheon
3 p.m. • San Francisco city tour
8 p.m. • Team event at a comedy club
Thursday, Dec. 24
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
6 p.m. • Team dinner at local restaurant
9 p.m. • Optional Christmas Eve chapel and mass services at team hotel
Friday, Dec. 25
12 p.m. • Glide Memorial Church visit to serve Christmas lunch
2 p.m. • Meetings at team hotel
4:15 p.m. • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
6 p.m. • Christmas dinner at team hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin
Saturday, Dec. 26
11 a.m. • Pep rally at Union Square
12:45 p.m. • Pre-game meetings
1:15 p.m. • Pre-game meal
3:15 p.m. • Depart team hotel
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
4:03 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
Monday, Dec. 21
9:30 a.m. • Meetings begin at Heritage Hall
11 a.m. • Practice
1 p.m. • Depart USC for LAX
2 p.m. • Charter flight departs for San Francisco International Airport
3:15 p.m. • Arrive in San Francisco
4 p.m. • Check-in at team hotel
6:30 p.m. • Emerald Bowl welcome dinner
Tuesday, Dec. 22
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
4 p.m. • Alcatraz tour
Wednesday, Dec. 23
7:30 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
9:30 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
11:30 a.m. • Return to team hotel
12 p.m. • Emerald Bowl kickoff luncheon
3 p.m. • San Francisco city tour
8 p.m. • Team event at a comedy club
Thursday, Dec. 24
9 a.m. • Meetings at team hotel
11 a.m. • Practice at City College of San Francisco
1 p.m. • Return to team hotel
6 p.m. • Team dinner at local restaurant
9 p.m. • Optional Christmas Eve chapel and mass services at team hotel
Friday, Dec. 25
12 p.m. • Glide Memorial Church visit to serve Christmas lunch
2 p.m. • Meetings at team hotel
4:15 p.m. • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
6 p.m. • Christmas dinner at team hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin
Saturday, Dec. 26
11 a.m. • Pep rally at Union Square
12:45 p.m. • Pre-game meetings
1:15 p.m. • Pre-game meal
3:15 p.m. • Depart team hotel
3:25 p.m. • Arrive at AT&T Park
4:03 p.m. • Warm-ups begin
5:06 p.m. • Kickoff
The Trojans will be making a very rare appearance at a baseball stadium when they meet Boston College in the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park.
The most recent USC football games at baseball or dual-purpose stadiums were the 2003 and 2005 Orange Bowls in Miami's Pro Player Stadium, home of baseball's Florida Marlins, and the 2005 matchup at Hawaii in Honolulu's Aloha Stadium, home venue of minor league and high school baseball contests. All three games, like the Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park next weekend, saw the baseball infield dirt removed and covered by grass.
Not including the 1958-61 seasons, when the Trojans shared the Coliseum with the Dodgers, USC is 8-2-1 in games played in baseball (or dual-purpose) stadiums in the last 50 seasons. Take a look at all of the Trojans' contests in baseball venues since 1960:
2005 at Hawaii • Aloha Stadium, Honolulu • W 63-17
2005 vs. Oklahoma (Orange Bowl) • Pro Player Stadium, Miami • W 55-19
2003 vs. Iowa (Orange Bowl) • Pro Player Stadium, Miami • W 38-17
1993 vs. Utah (Freedom Bowl) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • W 28-21
1993 vs. North Carolina (Pigskin Classic) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • L 31-9
1992 vs. Fresno State (Freedom Bowl) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • L 24-7
1992 at San Diego State • Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego • T 31-31
1996 at Houston • Astrodome, Houston • W 26-9
1977 vs. Texas A&M (Bluebonnet Bowl) • Astrodome, Houston • W 47-28
1976 vs. Washington State • Kingdome, Seattle • W 23-14
1966 at Oregon State • Multnomah Stadium, Portland, Ore. • W 21-0
The most recent USC football games at baseball or dual-purpose stadiums were the 2003 and 2005 Orange Bowls in Miami's Pro Player Stadium, home of baseball's Florida Marlins, and the 2005 matchup at Hawaii in Honolulu's Aloha Stadium, home venue of minor league and high school baseball contests. All three games, like the Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park next weekend, saw the baseball infield dirt removed and covered by grass.
Not including the 1958-61 seasons, when the Trojans shared the Coliseum with the Dodgers, USC is 8-2-1 in games played in baseball (or dual-purpose) stadiums in the last 50 seasons. Take a look at all of the Trojans' contests in baseball venues since 1960:
2005 at Hawaii • Aloha Stadium, Honolulu • W 63-17
2005 vs. Oklahoma (Orange Bowl) • Pro Player Stadium, Miami • W 55-19
2003 vs. Iowa (Orange Bowl) • Pro Player Stadium, Miami • W 38-17
1993 vs. Utah (Freedom Bowl) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • W 28-21
1993 vs. North Carolina (Pigskin Classic) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • L 31-9
1992 vs. Fresno State (Freedom Bowl) • Anaheim Stadium, Anaheim • L 24-7
1992 at San Diego State • Jack Murphy Stadium, San Diego • T 31-31
1996 at Houston • Astrodome, Houston • W 26-9
1977 vs. Texas A&M (Bluebonnet Bowl) • Astrodome, Houston • W 47-28
1976 vs. Washington State • Kingdome, Seattle • W 23-14
1966 at Oregon State • Multnomah Stadium, Portland, Ore. • W 21-0
A handful of field-level, sideline seats in the Trojan allotment for the Emerald Bowl are still available, so go here to get tickets in the official USC sections for the Dec. 26 game at AT&T Park.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl:
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
One staffer we neglected to mention in Tuesday's entry about Bay Area connections was defensive administrative assistant Pete Dalis, who grew up in San Jose, attended Bellarmine College Preparatory and went to his fair share of games at AT&T Park, site of the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl against Boston College (though only Giants games and no football contests at the stadium).
Thanks to seven consecutive Pac-10 titles, BCS bowl games and 11-win seasons, USC has been named the decade's best program by Sports Illustrated.
Wideout Damian Williams, offensive lineman Charles Brown, defensive end Everson Griffen and safety Taylor Mays have been named to Sporting News' All-Pac-10 first team.
Kickoff of the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl is now set for 5:06 p.m., though ESPN said there is a possibility it could slide 5-10 minutes in either direction to accommodate programming.
Coach Carroll knows all about this sharing-the-same-sideline business we'll be seeing at AT&T Park for the Emerald Bowl next Saturday.
Three times in the '80s, when he was an assistant with the Minnesota Vikings, Carroll experienced the one-sideline idiosyncrasy when visiting Milwaukee County Stadium to play the Green Bay Packers, who used to host a handful of home games per season at the baseball venue in Wisconsin's largest city.
"It's very odd," Carroll recalled of the same-sideline arrangement. "You feel so far away, and it makes for long substitutions on goal-line plays. It's just different coaching like that."
Milwaukee County Stadium, where the Green Bay Packers used to host two or three home games per season, saw teams share one sideline (in what is left field), much like what the Trojans will be experiencing for the Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park next Saturday (though the two teams will be in right field). [Photo courtesy of baseball-fever.com]
Three times in the '80s, when he was an assistant with the Minnesota Vikings, Carroll experienced the one-sideline idiosyncrasy when visiting Milwaukee County Stadium to play the Green Bay Packers, who used to host a handful of home games per season at the baseball venue in Wisconsin's largest city.
"It's very odd," Carroll recalled of the same-sideline arrangement. "You feel so far away, and it makes for long substitutions on goal-line plays. It's just different coaching like that."
Milwaukee County Stadium, where the Green Bay Packers used to host two or three home games per season, saw teams share one sideline (in what is left field), much like what the Trojans will be experiencing for the Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park next Saturday (though the two teams will be in right field). [Photo courtesy of baseball-fever.com]
Don't miss this uplifting story about USC alum Keary Colbert's goodwill in helping Crenshaw High football players obtain tickets for their CIF championship game on Saturday. Thanks to RipsIt reader Jaime Ortiz for passing it along.
Colbert had heard about the need from a post on Facebook.
"By the time I read to the bottom," Colbert said in this article, "I already knew that I wanted to do it because I know how much this means and I know how big a deal this is for the families and the community to come out and support the kids."
Colbert had heard about the need from a post on Facebook.
"By the time I read to the bottom," Colbert said in this article, "I already knew that I wanted to do it because I know how much this means and I know how big a deal this is for the families and the community to come out and support the kids."
You've got to watch this highly entertaining mic'd up video featuring Houston Texans rookie linebacker Brian Cushing during Sunday's game against the Seahawks, courtesy of HoustonTexans.com:
Check out this awesome feature on the breadth and depth of USC's linebacking corps now starring in the NFL, from today's L.A. Times.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- So hot right now: USC No. 1 "hottest" school of the '00s
- Keep on voting: Carroll for Coach of the Year
- Touchdowns in the past: Brennan Carroll catches TD vs. BC
- Single-minded focus: All football, all the time
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Wednesday's practice report
- Wednesday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Wednesday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Safety Taylor Mays shuffles through agility bags.
The Trojans face off in the rushing-focused 9-on-7 period.
Aaron Corp leads the service team offense against the first-team defense.
Joe McKnight and Matt Barkley fill out the backfield in team period under the lights.
Thoughts from Wednesday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- Think the Trojans aren't enthused to be playing football right now? Think again. With plenty of hits before the whistle and even more extracurricular activity after, the players muscled through a chippy full-pads practice under the lights, with the offense cruising to a 12-8 victory in the final team period on the first day back from a two-day break. "We had a really sharp day today," Coach Carroll said. "That's a good indication that we're on track to have a very good week."
- En route to the offense's dominating 12-8 win in the final team period, tailback Allen Bradford rumbled for a long run up the middle behind big-time blocks from tight end Rhett Ellison and wideout Brandon Carswell before Matt Barkley threw a picture-perfect touchdown-scoring strike to receiver Damian Williams. "Oh my goodness gracious!" tight ends coach Brennan Carroll exclaimed during the onslaught of offensive wins. "That's a decisive victory for the offense on Competition Tuesday!" Carroll proclaimed in the post-practice team huddle.
- In one of the most entertaining 7-on-7 periods in recent history, safety Drew McAllister snagged an interception off a pass that deflected off two players on the last snap of the drill, breaking the tie and giving the defense the period victory. The play was preceded by superfluous amounts of lighthearted trash talk and pushing and shoving.
- Carroll said cornerback Shareece Wright did "very well" in his fall semester classes and will be "definitely available" for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl.
- Safety Will Harris, who sat out last weekend's workouts with complications from an abscessed tooth, returned to practice. "He was kind of crabby today," Carroll joked. "He was like a bear with a sore tooth, but he's out here battling."
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard tore his ACL in the Arizona game, Carroll said, and he's expected to get surgery as soon as possible. The sixth-year senior is aiming to return to football and play in the NFL next fall.
- Think the Trojans aren't enthused to be playing football right now? Think again. With plenty of hits before the whistle and even more extracurricular activity after, the players muscled through a chippy full-pads practice under the lights, with the offense cruising to a 12-8 victory in the final team period on the first day back from a two-day break. "We had a really sharp day today," Coach Carroll said. "That's a good indication that we're on track to have a very good week."
- En route to the offense's dominating 12-8 win in the final team period, tailback Allen Bradford rumbled for a long run up the middle behind big-time blocks from tight end Rhett Ellison and wideout Brandon Carswell before Matt Barkley threw a picture-perfect touchdown-scoring strike to receiver Damian Williams. "Oh my goodness gracious!" tight ends coach Brennan Carroll exclaimed during the onslaught of offensive wins. "That's a decisive victory for the offense on Competition Tuesday!" Carroll proclaimed in the post-practice team huddle.
- In one of the most entertaining 7-on-7 periods in recent history, safety Drew McAllister snagged an interception off a pass that deflected off two players on the last snap of the drill, breaking the tie and giving the defense the period victory. The play was preceded by superfluous amounts of lighthearted trash talk and pushing and shoving.
- Carroll said cornerback Shareece Wright did "very well" in his fall semester classes and will be "definitely available" for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl.
- Safety Will Harris, who sat out last weekend's workouts with complications from an abscessed tooth, returned to practice. "He was kind of crabby today," Carroll joked. "He was like a bear with a sore tooth, but he's out here battling."
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard tore his ACL in the Arizona game, Carroll said, and he's expected to get surgery as soon as possible. The sixth-year senior is aiming to return to football and play in the NFL next fall.
During this afternoon's team meeting -- USC's first since Sunday -- Coach Carroll showed footage of the Trojan Drill, lauding the players for their "extraordinary elevation of our intensity."
"We had two really good, competitive days over the weekend," Carroll said. "It's really important we pick up where we left off."
The Trojans have an opportunity to do just that with Practice No. 3 of Emerald Bowl prep, which is beginning now on Howard Jones Field. We'll return afterward with a report.
"We had two really good, competitive days over the weekend," Carroll said. "It's really important we pick up where we left off."
The Trojans have an opportunity to do just that with Practice No. 3 of Emerald Bowl prep, which is beginning now on Howard Jones Field. We'll return afterward with a report.
Finals are over, school's out and the Trojans are shifting into a new phase of the season.
"This is bowl mode now," Coach Carroll excitedly said during this afternoon's team meeting. "No school, just football."
It all gets going with today's meetings and practice, the opening portion of a three-day installation process before taking two days off prior to Emerald Bowl week. The strategy for today, Thursday and Friday closely mimics what Carroll did when he worked under legendary coach Bill Walsh with the San Francisco 49ers leading up to Super Bowls and playoff games following byes -- the team spends the week before the game constructing the framework before shining it up during game week.
"We always do the planning the week before the championship game so when we get there and it's game week, we're polishing, cleaning up and getting well-versed with the game plan," Carroll told his players this afternoon.
"This is bowl mode now," Coach Carroll excitedly said during this afternoon's team meeting. "No school, just football."
It all gets going with today's meetings and practice, the opening portion of a three-day installation process before taking two days off prior to Emerald Bowl week. The strategy for today, Thursday and Friday closely mimics what Carroll did when he worked under legendary coach Bill Walsh with the San Francisco 49ers leading up to Super Bowls and playoff games following byes -- the team spends the week before the game constructing the framework before shining it up during game week.
"We always do the planning the week before the championship game so when we get there and it's game week, we're polishing, cleaning up and getting well-versed with the game plan," Carroll told his players this afternoon.
An ensemble from the Trojan Marching Band stops by the USC football office in Heritage Hall this afternoon to play a few Christmas songs. The band has been going around campus today -- the final day of finals and the fall semester -- performing Christmas carols in various offices and buildings to spread some holiday spirit.
The Emerald Bowl is just 10 days away. Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow the USC-Boston College matchup on Dec. 26:
- Kickoff: 5:06 p.m.
- National TV: ESPN (Joe Tessitore, Rod Gilmore, Todd Harris)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
The O.C. Register counts down the top 10 Trojans of the decade in this cool feature. Check it out.
After two days off, the Trojans are gathering now to begin their afternoon block of meetings, starting with film sessions for the punt and punt return units. Team, offense/defense and position group meetings follow prior to a full-pads practice at 3:15 p.m.
RipsIt reader Dan Fuentes e-mailed in asking why USC is utilizing just 10 of the NCAA-allowed 15 bowl practices this December: "How many practices are available to the team per NCAA rules and why aren't they using all of the practices available to them?"
Because of finals and an early bowl date, the Trojans simply ran out of days to schedule practices, according to Coach Carroll. With only 21 days between the final regular season game and the bowl and six days of finals jammed in between, the team wasn't going to be able to use all 15 permitted practices, especially since days off are necessary for the health of the players.
"There just aren't enough days," Carroll said.
In previous years with a Jan. 1 bowl date, the Trojans had six more days to finagle into the schedule, allowing them to space out the practices and use up all 15 allotted workouts.
Because of finals and an early bowl date, the Trojans simply ran out of days to schedule practices, according to Coach Carroll. With only 21 days between the final regular season game and the bowl and six days of finals jammed in between, the team wasn't going to be able to use all 15 permitted practices, especially since days off are necessary for the health of the players.
"There just aren't enough days," Carroll said.
In previous years with a Jan. 1 bowl date, the Trojans had six more days to finagle into the schedule, allowing them to space out the practices and use up all 15 allotted workouts.
The calendar says it's Wednesday, but Coach Carroll says it's Tuesday.
Competition Tuesday, to be exact.
The Trojans resume Emerald Bowl preparations this afternoon with meetings starting at 1:15 p.m. and a competition-themed full-pads practice at 3:15 p.m. Installation of the Boston College game plan will begin in earnest today and last through Friday, when the game plan will be completely ensconced in the players' minds, leaving an entire week of review leading up to the game next Saturday.
Competition Tuesday, to be exact.
The Trojans resume Emerald Bowl preparations this afternoon with meetings starting at 1:15 p.m. and a competition-themed full-pads practice at 3:15 p.m. Installation of the Boston College game plan will begin in earnest today and last through Friday, when the game plan will be completely ensconced in the players' minds, leaving an entire week of review leading up to the game next Saturday.
One member of the USC coaching staff has some fond memories whenever Boston College comes up.On Oct. 21, 2000, current tight ends coach Brennan Carroll, then a redshirt junior tight end for Pittsburgh, caught a three-yard touchdown pass against the Eagles in the Panthers' 42-26 win at Three Rivers Stadium. It ended up being Carroll's only career touchdown, and Coach Pete Carroll, Brennan's father, was at the game that day.
On a related note, current radio sideline reporter John Jackson, who played wideout for USC in 1986-89, also caught a touchdown against Boston College. When the Trojans and Eagles met in 1987 at the Coliseum, Jackson hauled in a 51-yard scoring reception that ended up being the winning points in USC's 23-17 victory.
"I still remember the play," Jackson said this week as he re-enacted the out-and-up route he ran.
Coach Carroll is one of 10 finalists for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award, and the ultimate stage of fan voting is moving right along. Show your support daily, and if Carroll wins, $50,000 will be donated to A Better LA, the inner-city charity he helped found.
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
Check out this video produced by the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year organization highlighting Carroll's accomplishments on the field and in the community:
Defensive end Nick Perry has been named to Sporting News' Freshman All-American team. Perry also joins linebacker Devon Kennard on Sporting News' Pac-10 All-Freshman team.
Check out how USC and Boston College compare in several major statistical categories during the 2009 season:
Rushing offense • USC: 173.3; BC: 140.5 • Edge: USC
Passing offense • USC: 211.7; BC: 184.4 • Edge: USC
Total offense • USC: 385.0; BC: 324.9 • Edge: USC
Scoring offense • USC: 26.7; BC: 25.8 • Edge: USC
Rushing defense • USC: 131.0; BC: 104.4 • Edge: BC
Passing defense • USC: 211.8; BC: 214.0 • Edge: USC
Total defense • USC: 342.8; BC: 318.4 • Edge: BC
Scoring defense • USC: 20.4; BC: 19.2 • Edge: BC
Turnover margin • USC: 0; BC: -0.3 • Edge: USC
Rushing offense • USC: 173.3; BC: 140.5 • Edge: USC
Passing offense • USC: 211.7; BC: 184.4 • Edge: USC
Total offense • USC: 385.0; BC: 324.9 • Edge: USC
Scoring offense • USC: 26.7; BC: 25.8 • Edge: USC
Rushing defense • USC: 131.0; BC: 104.4 • Edge: BC
Passing defense • USC: 211.8; BC: 214.0 • Edge: USC
Total defense • USC: 342.8; BC: 318.4 • Edge: BC
Scoring defense • USC: 20.4; BC: 19.2 • Edge: BC
Turnover margin • USC: 0; BC: -0.3 • Edge: USC
Thirty-seven Trojans are currently on NFL rosters, but they're not the only USC alumni still playing professional football.
Their seasons recently completed, three Trojans were playing on in the Canadian Football League and one was still suiting up in the United Football League. Offensive lineman Matt Spanos (Hamilton Tiger-Cats), linebacker Zeke Moreno (Toronto Argonauts) and cornerback Will Poole (Toronto Argonauts) played during the 2009 CFL season, while offensive lineman Fred Matua (Florida Tuskers) saw action in the inaugural UFL campaign this fall.
Their seasons recently completed, three Trojans were playing on in the Canadian Football League and one was still suiting up in the United Football League. Offensive lineman Matt Spanos (Hamilton Tiger-Cats), linebacker Zeke Moreno (Toronto Argonauts) and cornerback Will Poole (Toronto Argonauts) played during the 2009 CFL season, while offensive lineman Fred Matua (Florida Tuskers) saw action in the inaugural UFL campaign this fall.
USC has been ranked the No. 1 hottest school of the decade, according to the Daily Beast, a popular news and opinion website.
USC alum Chauncey Washington, who starred as tailback on the 2006 and 2007 Trojan teams, has been signed to the New York Jets active roster. He had been on the Dallas Cowboys practice squad for much of the season.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Brown wins Morris Trophy: Top honor for Pac-10 OL
- Home for the holidays: Several Trojans from Bay Area
- Returning for more: Mokhtar goes back to Emerald Bowl
- A Better LA Christmas party: On Saturday
- Brown, Mays honored: Sporting News All-Americans
- Get your tickets: Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26
Be sure to purchase from the 11,500-ticket Trojan allotment for the Emerald Bowl through the USC ticket office. Season-ticket holders can buy here, while non-season-ticket holders should go here to get seats in the official USC sections for the Dec. 26 game at AT&T Park.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl.
The Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 will be broadcast internationally on ESPN360.com, along with being televised nationally on ESPN.
The Trojans know the Bay Area well, with an annual trip to play Stanford or California each season.
But they don't know San Francisco much at all.
USC has played 851 games in California, but the Emerald Bowl will be just the third time the Trojans will have suited up in San Francisco -- and first since the 1940s. Previously, USC played in Kezar Stadium in 1942 (losing to Stanford) and 1943 (beating USF).
But they don't know San Francisco much at all.
USC has played 851 games in California, but the Emerald Bowl will be just the third time the Trojans will have suited up in San Francisco -- and first since the 1940s. Previously, USC played in Kezar Stadium in 1942 (losing to Stanford) and 1943 (beating USF).
Offensive tackle Charles Brown has been named to the first team and safety Taylor Mays has been put on the second team of Sporting News' All-American squads.
USC has played 1,135 football games in its history, but the Emerald Bowl will be the first time the Trojans have played on Dec. 26.
A Better LA is co-hosting a Family Christmas Party at Helen Keller Park (1045 W. 126th St. Los Angeles, CA 90044) in South Los Angeles on Saturday, and volunteers are needed to help hand out toys, serve hot meals and run the games and activities for the kids. Please e-mail volunteer@abetterla.org to join the holiday festivities and community outreach event.
The Emerald Bowl will be old news for USC walk-on tailback Ahmed Mokhtar.Mokhtar, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Orange Coast College, was a true freshman on the Oregon State roster when the Beavers played in the Emerald Bowl in 2007. As a redshirting first-year player, he didn't see any game action in Oregon State's 21-14 win over Maryland.
So while almost all of his teammates will be experiencing a new city and something other than Disneyland and Lawry's for the first time during bowl week, Mokhtar will be going back to the only bowl he's known -- but he's definitely not complaining.
"When I heard we were going to the Emerald Bowl, I was amped," said Mokhtar, a Mater Dei grad who grew up in Laguna Beach. "It's going to be really cool."
Some Trojans will be going home for Christmas.
While most of the players and coaches will be celebrating Christmas in a foreign city this year, the week in San Francisco leading up to the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl will be just like going home for the holidays for a handful of Trojans. Take a look at USC's Bay Area connections:
While most of the players and coaches will be celebrating Christmas in a foreign city this year, the week in San Francisco leading up to the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl will be just like going home for the holidays for a handful of Trojans. Take a look at USC's Bay Area connections:
- Five players attended a Bay Area high school: WR Brandon Carswell (Milpitas HS), TE Rhett Ellison (St. Francis HS), LB/DL Kevin Greene (Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep), S Drew McAllister (Monte Vista HS) and DL Derek Simmons (Armijo HS).
- Coach Carroll was born in San Francisco, grew up in Marin County and attended Redwood High in Larkspur.
- Tight ends coach Brennan Carroll attended Saratoga High.
- Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin played football at Yerba Buena High in San Jose and then San Jose Community College.
- Director of football operations Matt Capurro grew up in Petaluma and then attended University of San Francisco.
Offensive tackle Charles Brown has been named winner of the 30th annual Morris Trophy, awarded annually by the Pac-10 to the outstanding offensive and defensive linemen in the conference. It's a unique award, because the Pac-10's starting defensive linemen vote for the top offensive lineman, and vice versa. Oregon State's Stephen Paea won the top defensive lineman honor.
USC defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis won the award in 2006 and 2007, while center Ryan Kalil was the Trojans' last offensive winner in 2006.
USC defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis won the award in 2006 and 2007, while center Ryan Kalil was the Trojans' last offensive winner in 2006.
Today, the penultimate day of finals at USC, marks the last day off from football for the players before plunging back into Emerald Bowl preparations on Wednesday. Meetings will start at 1:15 and practice will be up at 3:15 tomorrow afternoon as the Trojans resume bowl prep and introduce the game plan for the Dec. 26 matchup against Boston College.
USC will also have the same schedule on Thursday and Friday before taking Saturday and Sunday off. The Trojans will then practice Monday morning and depart for San Francisco that afternoon.
USC will also have the same schedule on Thursday and Friday before taking Saturday and Sunday off. The Trojans will then practice Monday morning and depart for San Francisco that afternoon.
USC has drawn inspiration from Stafon Johnson and Jake Olson this fall. Boston College has done so from All-ACC standout linebacker Mark Herzlich, who was diagnosed with bone cancer prior to the 2009 season. Don't miss Herzlich's poignant story in this feature from ESPN's "College GameDay," which aired on Oct. 3:
Coach Carroll is one of 10 finalists for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award, and the ultimate stage of fan voting opened today. Show your support daily, and if Carroll wins, $50,000 will be donated to A Better LA, the inner-city charity he helped found.
The Emerald Bowl will be USC's 48th postseason appearance, but only its 15th outside of Pasadena. The Trojans have appeared in a record 33 Rose Bowls, winning 24 of them. USC is 7-7 in non-Rose Bowls, with the latest appearances being victories in the 2003 and 2005 Orange Bowls.
An officiating crew from the Mountain West Conference will referee the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at AT&T Park.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Trojans around the League: Week 14
- Mirror images: Barkley and Palmer comparisons
- Thrilling results: Carroll high on Trojan Drill
- Text to give: A Better LA toy drive
- Three on All-Freshman squad: Butler, Perry, Kennard
- Decade dominance: Trojans own Pac-10 in the '00s
- Comparisons galore: USC, BC very similar
For being 2,600 miles apart, the similarities surprisingly abound between USC and Boston College. Take a look at the most glaring parallels between the two programs:
- Freshman quarterback: USC starts 19-year-old Matt Barkley; Boston College starts 25-year-old Dave Shinskie
- 1,000-yard running back: USC has Joe McKnight (1,014 rushing yards in '09); Boston College has Montel Harris (1,355 rushing yards in '09)
- Wideout who was the team MVP: USC has Damian Williams; Boston College has Rich Gunnell
- All-conference linemen: USC has All-Pac-10 selections Jeff Byers and Charles Brown; Boston College has All-ACC selection Anthony Castonzo
- Off-field adversity-turned-inspiration: USC has tailback Stafon Johnson, who endured a life-threatening weightlifting accident in September; Boston College has linebacker Mark Herzlich, who was diagnosed with bone cancer and missed the entire '09 season
Sunday, Jan. 17 will mark the sixth annual Day in Troy community outreach event hosted by the USC women's basketball team. Get more info below or by calling (213) 740-1244.
With the Boston College marching band not traveling to San Francisco for the Emerald Bowl, the Trojan Marching Band will be allotted an extra 1-2 minutes for its pre-game and halftime shows. A drum and bugle corps will also perform during pre-game and a contest will fill the remainder of the halftime schedule.
Check out this interesting story capturing the Top 10 moments in USC sports during the last decade, from today's O.C. Register.
Tickets for the Feb. 20 Will Ferrell comedy event to benefit A Better LA are on sale now, so be sure to purchase yours before it's they're sold out.
The numbers sure tell the story.
The Trojans are the team of the decade in the Pac-10, according to this statistical analysis by the Tucson Citizen. Between 2000 and 2009, USC had the best overall and conference record by a wide margin, had 26 more NFL draft picks than the next-closest program and more than double the number of first-round draft selections than the No. 2 conference school.
The Trojans are the team of the decade in the Pac-10, according to this statistical analysis by the Tucson Citizen. Between 2000 and 2009, USC had the best overall and conference record by a wide margin, had 26 more NFL draft picks than the next-closest program and more than double the number of first-round draft selections than the No. 2 conference school.
Wideout Brice Butler, defensive end Nick Perry and linebacker Devon Kennard have been named to ESPN.com's Pac-10 All-Freshman Team.
Giving back couldn't be easier this holiday season. Thanks to A Better LA and Causecast, you can text "TOY" to 85944 to donate $10 to the foundation's inner-city toy drive.
With finals going on, it was a relatively quiet week for Trojan athletics, as only the men's basketball team saw game action. The Trojan hoops squad won both its contests this past week, pushing its record to 4-4. USC will welcome Tennessee to the Galen Center for a 1:30 p.m. matchup on Saturday.
Coming off a 13-day break, the USC women's basketball team will return to action with a home game against Dartmouth on Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
Coming off a 13-day break, the USC women's basketball team will return to action with a home game against Dartmouth on Saturday at 4:30 p.m.
Recent rains forced the Trojans from Howard Jones Field and onto the FieldTurf of Cromwell Field for the two practices this weekend, but the location change should be good preparation for next week.
USC will conduct three practices at City College of San Francisco leading up to the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26, and the Trojans should be ready, as they practiced on a similar field surface (FieldTurf) and on just one field (as opposed to two, like they have on Howard Jones) on Cromwell Field over the weekend.
USC will conduct three practices at City College of San Francisco leading up to the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26, and the Trojans should be ready, as they practiced on a similar field surface (FieldTurf) and on just one field (as opposed to two, like they have on Howard Jones) on Cromwell Field over the weekend.
Coach Carroll has been raving about the newly introduced Trojan Drill from this weekend's practices, saying the rushing- and blocking-based situational exercise is instilling a renewed passion and intensity in the players and coaches.
Now you can see why in these action-filled clips from the coaches' film of the Trojan Drill from Sunday's practice. Thanks to Eric Espinoza and the video operations department for the footage (unfortunately, there is no sound, as it's from the coaches' tape):
Now you can see why in these action-filled clips from the coaches' film of the Trojan Drill from Sunday's practice. Thanks to Eric Espinoza and the video operations department for the footage (unfortunately, there is no sound, as it's from the coaches' tape):
Matt Barkley and Carson Palmer have more in common than a single-digit jersey number and a home in Orange County.
Their first seasons under Coach Carroll -- Palmer's in 2001 and Barkley's this fall -- have produced remarkably similar stats, as well. Both quarterbacks threw 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in their inaugural campaigns under Carroll, and their completion percentages -- 58.6 for Palmer and 58.4 for Barkley -- are also incredibly alike (keep in mind Barkley still has the Emerald Bowl remaining).
Barkley does have one leg up on Palmer, though. The true freshman Barkley is 8-3 as a starter so far this season, while the fourth-year junior Palmer, who had two previous years of starting experience, went 6-6 in 2001.
Their first seasons under Coach Carroll -- Palmer's in 2001 and Barkley's this fall -- have produced remarkably similar stats, as well. Both quarterbacks threw 13 touchdowns and 12 interceptions in their inaugural campaigns under Carroll, and their completion percentages -- 58.6 for Palmer and 58.4 for Barkley -- are also incredibly alike (keep in mind Barkley still has the Emerald Bowl remaining).
Barkley does have one leg up on Palmer, though. The true freshman Barkley is 8-3 as a starter so far this season, while the fourth-year junior Palmer, who had two previous years of starting experience, went 6-6 in 2001.
Finals are continuing on this week at USC, so players have today and Tuesday off from workouts, meetings and practices as they wrap up their fall semesters. Coaches will be on the road recruiting until Wednesday, when the Trojans will reconvene for Emerald Bowl preparation with meetings starting at 1:15 p.m.
Only eight practices remain before USC faces Boston College on Dec. 26 at San Francisco's AT&T Park. Here's a look at the Trojans' agenda for the next two weeks:
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Practice at 11 a.m.; depart for San Francisco at 2 p.m.
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Only eight practices remain before USC faces Boston College on Dec. 26 at San Francisco's AT&T Park. Here's a look at the Trojans' agenda for the next two weeks:
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Practice at 11 a.m.; depart for San Francisco at 2 p.m.
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Find out how USC alumni performed during Week 14 of the NFL season:
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Reggie Bush scored two touchdowns in the 13-0 Saints' win over Atlanta on Sunday. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
- Safety Kevin Ellison (San Diego Chargers) had 6 tackles in the Chargers' 20-17 win over Dallas.
- Tailback Reggie Bush (New Orleans Saints) rushed 6 times for 33 yards and made 6 receptions for 46 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Saints' 26-23 win over Atlanta.
- Defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis (New Orleans Saints) had 3 tackles, including 1 sack, in the Saints' win.
- Linebacker Clay Matthews (Green Bay Packers) had 5 tackles, including 1 sack, in the Packers' 21-14 over Chicago.
- Linebacker Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati Bengals) had 8 tackles in the Bengals' 30-10 loss to Minnesota.
- Linebacker Keith Rivers (Cincinnati Bengals) had 4 tackles in the Bengals' loss.
- Defensive lineman Kyle Moore (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) had 3 tackles in the Buccaneers 26-3 loss to the Jets.
- Linebacker Brian Cushing (Houston Texans) had 1 sack plus 9 other tackles in the Texans' 34-7 win over Seattle.
- Defensive lineman Shaun Cody (Houston Texans) had 3 tackles in the Texans' win.
- Tight end Fred Davis (Washington Redskins) had 3 receptions for 50 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Redskins' 34-13 win over Oakland.
- Tailback Justin Fargas (Oakland Raiders) rushed 9 times for 21 yards and 1 touchdown in the Raiders' loss.
- Wideout Steve Smith (New York Giants) had 7 receptions for 74 yards in the Giants' 45-38 loss to Philadelphia.
- Defensive lineman Mike Patterson (Philadelphia Eagles) had 7 tackles in the Eagles' win.
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Reggie Bush scored two touchdowns in the 13-0 Saints' win over Atlanta on Sunday. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
San Francisco is just one week away.
The Trojans will depart for the Bay Area next Monday to begin Emerald Bowl week. Just seven days from now, the USC charter flight is scheduled to leave LAX at 2 p.m. and arrive in San Francisco at 3:15, five days before the game against Boston College, which is set for 5 p.m. on Dec. 26.
The Trojans will depart for the Bay Area next Monday to begin Emerald Bowl week. Just seven days from now, the USC charter flight is scheduled to leave LAX at 2 p.m. and arrive in San Francisco at 3:15, five days before the game against Boston College, which is set for 5 p.m. on Dec. 26.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Loving the intensity: Day 1 of bowl prep receives praise
- Dispatch from Cromwell Field: Sunday's practice report
- Sunday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
- Honoring the 2009 season: USC's end-of-the-year banquet
USC's end-of-the-year awards ceremony powerfully touched the heartstrings on Sunday night at Club Nokia.
Jake Olson, the 12-year-old Trojan fan who valiantly fought through eye cancer before losing his vision this fall, presented Stafon Johnson with the Most Inspirational Player Award, giving an eloquently moving speech to recognize the senior tailback with the honor.
"This Trojan has soared to unbelievable heights this year," Olson said before Johnson came to the stage to accept the award and whisper into the microphone, "Fight on, and God has a plan."
The rest of the season-ending banquet in front of roughly 600 at the L.A. Live theater flowed more normally, as numerous individuals were honored for their contributions to the 2009 Trojans. Wideout/punt returner Damian Williams, who led USC with 58 receptions for 821 yards and six touchdowns was chosen by teammates as 2009 Most Valuable Player. Williams also averaged 15.4 yards per punt return and had two return touchdowns.
Sixth-year senior Jeff Byers was named offensive lineman of the year, while Christian Tupou and Jurrell Casey shared defensive linemen of the year honors. Senior quarterback/wideout Garrett Green was recognized as special teams player of the year. And, for the third consecutive year, Green also won the Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award for having the highest GPA on the team.
The night wasn't lacking thrills. Cedric the Entertainer performed standup comedy and linebacker Marquis Simmons led a rendition of "Lean on Me" -- along with the tear-jerking presentation of Johnson's award by Jake Olson.
Here's a look at the full list of winners from the 2009 USC football awards ceremony on Sunday night:
Here are some photos from the 2009 USC football awards ceremony at Club Nokia at L.A. Live:
Coach Carroll speaks to the crowd during USC's end-of-the-year awards ceremony on Sunday night at Club Nokia.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin addresses the crowd of about 600 at Club Nokia.
Stafon Johnson, flanked by Jake Olson, speaks to the audience after receiving USC's Most Inspirational Player Award on Sunday night.
Jake Olson, the 12-year-old Trojan fan who valiantly fought through eye cancer before losing his vision this fall, presented Stafon Johnson with the Most Inspirational Player Award, giving an eloquently moving speech to recognize the senior tailback with the honor.
"This Trojan has soared to unbelievable heights this year," Olson said before Johnson came to the stage to accept the award and whisper into the microphone, "Fight on, and God has a plan."
The rest of the season-ending banquet in front of roughly 600 at the L.A. Live theater flowed more normally, as numerous individuals were honored for their contributions to the 2009 Trojans. Wideout/punt returner Damian Williams, who led USC with 58 receptions for 821 yards and six touchdowns was chosen by teammates as 2009 Most Valuable Player. Williams also averaged 15.4 yards per punt return and had two return touchdowns.
Sixth-year senior Jeff Byers was named offensive lineman of the year, while Christian Tupou and Jurrell Casey shared defensive linemen of the year honors. Senior quarterback/wideout Garrett Green was recognized as special teams player of the year. And, for the third consecutive year, Green also won the Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award for having the highest GPA on the team.
The night wasn't lacking thrills. Cedric the Entertainer performed standup comedy and linebacker Marquis Simmons led a rendition of "Lean on Me" -- along with the tear-jerking presentation of Johnson's award by Jake Olson.
Here's a look at the full list of winners from the 2009 USC football awards ceremony on Sunday night:
- Most Valuable Player: Wideout/punt returner Damian Williams
- Most Inspirational Player: Tailback Stafon Johnson
- Linemen of the year: Center/guard Jeff Byers (offense); defensive tackles Christian Tupou and Jurrell Casey (defense)
- Special teams player of the year: Quarterback/wideout Garrett Green
- Service team players of the year: Center Michael Reardon (offense); linebacker Marquis Simmons (defense)
- Player of the game versus Notre Dame: Tight end Anthony McCoy
- Player of the game versus UCLA: Tailback Allen Bradford
- Jack Oakie "Rise and Shine" Award (year's biggest hit): Safety Taylor Mays
- Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award: Quarterback/wideout Garrett Green
- Bob Chandler Award (underclassman with outstanding athletic ability, academic achievement and character): Defensive tackle Christian Tupou
- John McKay Award (underclassman with the most competitive spirit): Linebacker Devon Kennard
- Courage Award: Cornerback Josh Pinkard
- Co-Lifters Award: Offensive lineman Jeff Byers, safety Will Harris, safety Taylor Mays
- Recognition of the 22 graduating seniors
Here are some photos from the 2009 USC football awards ceremony at Club Nokia at L.A. Live:
Coach Carroll speaks to the crowd during USC's end-of-the-year awards ceremony on Sunday night at Club Nokia.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin addresses the crowd of about 600 at Club Nokia.
Stafon Johnson, flanked by Jake Olson, speaks to the audience after receiving USC's Most Inspirational Player Award on Sunday night.
Check out this slideshow of images from Sunday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Mitch Mustain makes a throw during individual drills.
Tailback Curtis McNeal hops onto the pile during Trojan Drill.
Punter Jake Harfman waits for the snap.
Matt Barkley gets the pass off just before defensive lineman Jurrell Casey reaches the quarterback.
Tailback Ahmed Mokhtar takes a pitch from Mitch Mustain.
Thoughts from Sunday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- For the second straight day, the Trojans turned in a fiery, highly competitive full-pads practice on Cromwell Field, this one under the bright early afternoon sun instead of a steady rain. In a back-and-forth battle, the defense captured the overall practice victory with a 16-15 overtime triumph in the final team period. "That's some very good work today," Coach Carroll said approvingly in the post-practice team huddle. "You carried the intensity all the way through."
- Special teams standout Garrett Green, who tore his ACL in the UCLA game, took reps as the holder during field goal period with hopes of returning to the role for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. The senior has been cleared by doctors to do the holding duties in practice and the game, Carroll said.
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard's knee injury, suffered on Arizona's game-winning touchdown play in the fourth quarter, will keep him out of the Emerald Bowl, Carroll announced.
- Tailback C.J. Gable had several bruising runs throughout the workout, including one pinball-like rush during Trojan Drill that had his teammates hooting and hollering in excitement.
- For the second time in as many days, cornerback Byron Moore had an interception during team drills.
- Cornerback Brian Baucham (foot) returned to practice for the first time in weeks, while safeties Will Harris (tooth) and Drew McAllister (hip) remained sidelined.
- For the second straight day, the Trojans turned in a fiery, highly competitive full-pads practice on Cromwell Field, this one under the bright early afternoon sun instead of a steady rain. In a back-and-forth battle, the defense captured the overall practice victory with a 16-15 overtime triumph in the final team period. "That's some very good work today," Coach Carroll said approvingly in the post-practice team huddle. "You carried the intensity all the way through."
- Special teams standout Garrett Green, who tore his ACL in the UCLA game, took reps as the holder during field goal period with hopes of returning to the role for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. The senior has been cleared by doctors to do the holding duties in practice and the game, Carroll said.
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard's knee injury, suffered on Arizona's game-winning touchdown play in the fourth quarter, will keep him out of the Emerald Bowl, Carroll announced.
- Tailback C.J. Gable had several bruising runs throughout the workout, including one pinball-like rush during Trojan Drill that had his teammates hooting and hollering in excitement.
- For the second time in as many days, cornerback Byron Moore had an interception during team drills.
- Cornerback Brian Baucham (foot) returned to practice for the first time in weeks, while safeties Will Harris (tooth) and Drew McAllister (hip) remained sidelined.
The second practice of Emerald Bowl preparation just got started on Howard Jones Field, so we'll return afterward with a report.
Howard Jones Field sure appears like it's in good shape, but the recent rains have turned the turf into a sopping-wet sponge. The Trojans will practice for the second day in a row on the FieldTurf of Cromwell Field, and the sunny forecast for the next week means USC should return to its natural grass field for Wednesday's practice, the next workout after today.
It'll be time to celebrate and look back for the Trojans tonight.
USC will host its annual end-of-season awards banquet tonight at Club Nokia at L.A. Live, recognizing several standout players and the outgoing seniors in a first-class ceremony in front of an estimated 600 fans and family members. Here's a list of the awards and honors that will be announced tonight:
USC will host its annual end-of-season awards banquet tonight at Club Nokia at L.A. Live, recognizing several standout players and the outgoing seniors in a first-class ceremony in front of an estimated 600 fans and family members. Here's a list of the awards and honors that will be announced tonight:
- Most valuable player
- Most inspirational player
- Linemen of the year
- Special teams player of the year
- Service team players of the year
- Player of the game versus Notre Dame
- Player of the game versus UCLA
- Jack Oakie "Rise and Shine" Award (year's biggest hit)
- Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award
- Bob Chandler Award (underclassman with outstanding athletic ability, academic achievement and character)
- John McKay Award (underclassman with the most competitive spirit)
- Courage Award
- Lifter Award
- Recognition of the 22 graduating seniors
During this morning's team meeting, Coach Carroll showed every play of the inaugural Trojan Drill on Saturday, excitedly cycling through each clip as the players were wowed by the passion exhibited in the situational blocking exercise.
"I love the effort and fighting to get work done," Carroll told the players. "It is such a good drill for our intensity."
And no surprise here, but the Trojans will bring the drill out again for today's practice.
"I love the effort and fighting to get work done," Carroll told the players. "It is such a good drill for our intensity."
And no surprise here, but the Trojans will bring the drill out again for today's practice.
The Trojans are working on a Sunday morning, and it all began with a special teams meeting focused on the kickoff return unit. Practice, which will be on the FieldTurf of Cromwell Field because of the recent rains, is set for noon. Here's a look at the agenda for today, one that mimics exactly what USC did on Saturday:
10 a.m. • Special teams meeting
10:30 a.m. • Team meeting
10:45 a.m. • Offense/defense meetings
11 a.m. • Position group meetings
12 p.m. • Practice
10 a.m. • Special teams meeting
10:30 a.m. • Team meeting
10:45 a.m. • Offense/defense meetings
11 a.m. • Position group meetings
12 p.m. • Practice
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Things are a-changing: The shift begins to happen
- Johnson's future up in the air: Stafon's NFL status undetermined
- Injury report: Following Saturday's practice
- Dispatch from Cromwell Field: Saturday's practice report
- Saturday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Saturday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
In a pouring rain, tailback Curtis McNeal finds a hole in the line.
Defensive lineman Jurrell Casey and offensive lineman Jeff Byers go head to head.
With all the players circling around the premier of the Trojan Drill, tailback Joe McKnight and other players go through the run-blocking exercise.
Kicker Joe Houston connects on a field goal.
Matt Barkley drops back into the pocket as the sun begins to come out at the end of the practice.
Thoughts from Saturday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- In their first on-field football activity since last Saturday's loss, the Trojans opened Emerald Bowl preparation with a high-energy practice during an off-and-on rainstorm on Cromwell Field. "I like the way we started it off with a bang and with an attitude," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "And we're going to carry that attitude all the way through."
- In the premiere of the Trojan Drill, the offense powered its way to a 3-2 win over the defense, reaching the 10-yard goal point once more than the defense stopped it.
- During team drills, safety T.J. McDonald, cornerback Byron Moore and defensive end Malik Jackson each had an interception.
- On one play during team period, tailback Joe McKnight was stuffed on a run off tackle, and defensive lineman Derek Simmons and cornerback Torin Harris went the extra mile to drive home the triumph. Simmons and Harris joined together to pick up McKnight a foot off the ground and carry the tailback, whose legs were flailing, backward five yards or so.
- Cornerback Shareece Wright, who has been academically ineligible but was still practicing with the team all season, is now practicing with hopes of returning to the playing field for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. Fall semester grades will be posted Dec. 23, and if he earns high enough marks to regain his eligibility, he will be capable of seeing action in the game against Boston College. "He's prepared to play if he can," Carroll said.
- Saturday's wet weather, which included an all-out downpour for about 10 minutes of the practice, wreaked havoc on the passing and kicking game, though the clouds began to part near the end of the workout to create more comfortable conditions.
- In their first on-field football activity since last Saturday's loss, the Trojans opened Emerald Bowl preparation with a high-energy practice during an off-and-on rainstorm on Cromwell Field. "I like the way we started it off with a bang and with an attitude," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "And we're going to carry that attitude all the way through."
- In the premiere of the Trojan Drill, the offense powered its way to a 3-2 win over the defense, reaching the 10-yard goal point once more than the defense stopped it.
- During team drills, safety T.J. McDonald, cornerback Byron Moore and defensive end Malik Jackson each had an interception.
- On one play during team period, tailback Joe McKnight was stuffed on a run off tackle, and defensive lineman Derek Simmons and cornerback Torin Harris went the extra mile to drive home the triumph. Simmons and Harris joined together to pick up McKnight a foot off the ground and carry the tailback, whose legs were flailing, backward five yards or so.
- Cornerback Shareece Wright, who has been academically ineligible but was still practicing with the team all season, is now practicing with hopes of returning to the playing field for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. Fall semester grades will be posted Dec. 23, and if he earns high enough marks to regain his eligibility, he will be capable of seeing action in the game against Boston College. "He's prepared to play if he can," Carroll said.
- Saturday's wet weather, which included an all-out downpour for about 10 minutes of the practice, wreaked havoc on the passing and kicking game, though the clouds began to part near the end of the workout to create more comfortable conditions.
Here are some injury updates following Saturday's practice:
- Safety Will Harris missed practice with a tooth infection that has put him in the hospital during parts of the last week, Carroll said.
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard injured his knee during the Arizona game and his status for the bowl is undetermined, Carroll announced. He will sit out of practice until his prognosis is figured out.
- With snapper Chris Pousson out with a broken finger, offensive lineman Jeff Byers appears to be in line to fill the backup snapper role, Carroll said. Cooper Stephenson will take both the short and long snapping duties, as he did during the Arizona game.
- Safety Will Harris missed practice with a tooth infection that has put him in the hospital during parts of the last week, Carroll said.
- Cornerback Josh Pinkard injured his knee during the Arizona game and his status for the bowl is undetermined, Carroll announced. He will sit out of practice until his prognosis is figured out.
- With snapper Chris Pousson out with a broken finger, offensive lineman Jeff Byers appears to be in line to fill the backup snapper role, Carroll said. Cooper Stephenson will take both the short and long snapping duties, as he did during the Arizona game.
Contrary to a report released Thursday on NFL.com, Stafon Johnson hasn't made a decision yet on his future, Coach Carroll announced after Saturday's practice.
Carroll, who speaks regularly with the injured tailback, said Johnson will apply for a draft evaluation and is planning on making an announcement this week about his playing status. Johnson suffered a life-threatening throat injury while weightlifting on Sept. 28 but has now been medically cleared to resume working out.
"Wherever his heart is and whatever he feels best about, I'm going to support him," Carroll said.
Carroll, who speaks regularly with the injured tailback, said Johnson will apply for a draft evaluation and is planning on making an announcement this week about his playing status. Johnson suffered a life-threatening throat injury while weightlifting on Sept. 28 but has now been medically cleared to resume working out.
"Wherever his heart is and whatever he feels best about, I'm going to support him," Carroll said.
During this morning's team meeting, Coach Carroll laid out the next two weeks of practices in a simple, easy-to-understand way for his players, drawing analogies to each block of workouts:
It all begins now, with a short full-pads workout on Cromwell Field. The younger players will get the spotlight today as the coaches, with the future in mind, open up doors for the inexperienced Trojans.
"Take advantage of this day," Carroll said, singling out the younger players. "This is an opportunity you need to capitalize on."
We'll return with a report following the full-pads workout.
- 2 days of Spring Practice (today and Sunday): Younger players will see increased reps
- 3 days of installation (Wednesday through Friday): Game plans will be put in place
- 5 days of game week (Dec. 21-25): Normal game week practices leading into the game on Dec. 26
It all begins now, with a short full-pads workout on Cromwell Field. The younger players will get the spotlight today as the coaches, with the future in mind, open up doors for the inexperienced Trojans.
"Take advantage of this day," Carroll said, singling out the younger players. "This is an opportunity you need to capitalize on."
We'll return with a report following the full-pads workout.
Thirty-five Trojans will appear in NFL action this weekend, so check out the full slate of USC alumni in the professional world:
New Orleans Saints (12-0) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-6)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Saints: Tailback Reggie Bush, defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis
Falcons: Offensive lineman Sam Baker
Denver Broncos (8-4) vs. Indianapolis Colts (12-0)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Colts: Defensive Lineman Fili Moala
Seattle Seahawks (5-7) vs. Houston Texans (5-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Seahawks: Linebacker Lofa Tatupu, defensive lineman Lawrence Jackson
Texans: Linebacker Brian Cushing, defensive lineman Shaun Cody
Carolina Panthers (5-7) s. New England Patriots (7-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Panthers: Wideout Dwayne Jarrett, offensive lineman Ryan Kalil
Patriots: Linebacker Junior Seau
Buffalo Bills (4-8) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (3-9)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Bills: Cornerback Cary Harris
Chiefs: Quarterback Matt Cassel
Cincinnati Bengals (9-3) vs. Minnesota Vikings (10-2)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Bengals: Quarterback Carson Palmer, defensive end Frostee Rucker, linebacker Keith Rivers, linebacker Rey Maualuga
New York Jets (6-6) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-11)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Jets : Quarterback Mark Sanchez
Buccaneers: Defensive lineman Kyle Moore
Miami Dolphins (6-6) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Dolphins: Wideout Patrick Turner
Green Bay Packers (8-4) vs. Chicago Bears (5-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Packers: Linebacker Clay Matthews
St. Louis Rams (1-11) vs. Tennessee Titans (5-7)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (FOX)
Rams: Defensive lineman LaJuan Ramsey
Titans: Tailback LenDale White
Washington Redskins (3-9) vs. Oakland Raiders (4-8)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (FOX)
Redskins: Tight end Fred Davis
Raiders: Tailback Justin Fargas
San Diego Chargers (9-3) vs. Dallas Cowboys (8-4)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (CBS)
Chargers: Safety Kevin Ellison
Cowboys: Kicker David Buehler
Philadelphia Eagles (8-4) vs. New York Giants (7-6)
Sunday at 5:20 p.m. (NBC)
Eagles: Offensive lineman Winston Justice, defensive lineman Mike Patterson
Giants: Wideout Steve Smith, cornerback Terrell Thomas
Arizona Cardinals (8-4) vs. San Francisco 49ers (5-7)
Monday at 5:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Cardinals: Quarterback Matt Leinart, tight end Dominique Byrd, offensive lineman Deuce Lutui
49ers: Offensive lineman Chilo Rachal
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
New Orleans Saints (12-0) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-6)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Saints: Tailback Reggie Bush, defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis
Falcons: Offensive lineman Sam Baker
Denver Broncos (8-4) vs. Indianapolis Colts (12-0)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Colts: Defensive Lineman Fili Moala
Seattle Seahawks (5-7) vs. Houston Texans (5-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Seahawks: Linebacker Lofa Tatupu, defensive lineman Lawrence Jackson
Texans: Linebacker Brian Cushing, defensive lineman Shaun Cody
Carolina Panthers (5-7) s. New England Patriots (7-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Panthers: Wideout Dwayne Jarrett, offensive lineman Ryan Kalil
Patriots: Linebacker Junior Seau
Buffalo Bills (4-8) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (3-9)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Bills: Cornerback Cary Harris
Chiefs: Quarterback Matt Cassel
Cincinnati Bengals (9-3) vs. Minnesota Vikings (10-2)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Bengals: Quarterback Carson Palmer, defensive end Frostee Rucker, linebacker Keith Rivers, linebacker Rey Maualuga
New York Jets (6-6) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-11)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Jets : Quarterback Mark Sanchez
Buccaneers: Defensive lineman Kyle Moore
Miami Dolphins (6-6) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Dolphins: Wideout Patrick Turner
Green Bay Packers (8-4) vs. Chicago Bears (5-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Packers: Linebacker Clay Matthews
St. Louis Rams (1-11) vs. Tennessee Titans (5-7)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (FOX)
Rams: Defensive lineman LaJuan Ramsey
Titans: Tailback LenDale White
Washington Redskins (3-9) vs. Oakland Raiders (4-8)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (FOX)
Redskins: Tight end Fred Davis
Raiders: Tailback Justin Fargas
San Diego Chargers (9-3) vs. Dallas Cowboys (8-4)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (CBS)
Chargers: Safety Kevin Ellison
Cowboys: Kicker David Buehler
Philadelphia Eagles (8-4) vs. New York Giants (7-6)
Sunday at 5:20 p.m. (NBC)
Eagles: Offensive lineman Winston Justice, defensive lineman Mike Patterson
Giants: Wideout Steve Smith, cornerback Terrell Thomas
Arizona Cardinals (8-4) vs. San Francisco 49ers (5-7)
Monday at 5:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Cardinals: Quarterback Matt Leinart, tight end Dominique Byrd, offensive lineman Deuce Lutui
49ers: Offensive lineman Chilo Rachal
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Part of USC's theme of change includes introduction of a new practice drill that will be unveiled today.
Aptly named the "Trojan Drill," the highly competitive battle will pit three offensive players against three defensive players in a blocking exercise, with the offense aiming to pave the way for 10 rushing yards by a running back in three plays, while the defense is trying for the stop. It'll occur in a five-yard-wide part of the field, and all the non-participating players will encircle the drill to add to the buzz and excitement.
Aptly named the "Trojan Drill," the highly competitive battle will pit three offensive players against three defensive players in a blocking exercise, with the offense aiming to pave the way for 10 rushing yards by a running back in three plays, while the defense is trying for the stop. It'll occur in a five-yard-wide part of the field, and all the non-participating players will encircle the drill to add to the buzz and excitement.
Shift happens.
Or, as Coach Carroll said, shift has to happen -- and it all starts now.
During this morning's team meeting, Carroll formally kicked off the Trojan reclamation process, turning his team's focus to change and adjusting what had produced three losses in the past five games.
"We're faced with a new challenge," Carroll said, echoing what he discussed during Monday's team meeting. "We need to take advantage of everything we can to get right. We need to do everything better.
"This has to happen. We're going to grow with this as we change this thing."
In fact, one tangible, very symbolic shift has already happened this morning. Carroll called on his players to change seats, a tradition he normally reserves for the start of Spring Practice and Fall Camp each year to represent the freshness of starting a new chapter of the program.
"This is a good start, I like it," a grinning Carroll said after his players shuffled around to find new seats in Heritage Auditorium. "It's supposed to look different -- this gives you a new perspective."
Or, as Coach Carroll said, shift has to happen -- and it all starts now.
During this morning's team meeting, Carroll formally kicked off the Trojan reclamation process, turning his team's focus to change and adjusting what had produced three losses in the past five games.
"We're faced with a new challenge," Carroll said, echoing what he discussed during Monday's team meeting. "We need to take advantage of everything we can to get right. We need to do everything better.
"This has to happen. We're going to grow with this as we change this thing."
In fact, one tangible, very symbolic shift has already happened this morning. Carroll called on his players to change seats, a tradition he normally reserves for the start of Spring Practice and Fall Camp each year to represent the freshness of starting a new chapter of the program.
"This is a good start, I like it," a grinning Carroll said after his players shuffled around to find new seats in Heritage Auditorium. "It's supposed to look different -- this gives you a new perspective."
Over the next nine days, the Trojans will have four days off and practice just five times, setting them up for a fresh last week of practice leading into the Emerald Bowl in Dec. 26.
"You should go into the final week of preparation feeling as strong as we've been in a long time," Coach Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "You're going to feel as good and as healthy as we've been all year."
Here's a look at the team's schedule for the next 14 days:
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
"You should go into the final week of preparation feeling as strong as we've been in a long time," Coach Carroll said during this morning's team meeting. "You're going to feel as good and as healthy as we've been all year."
Here's a look at the team's schedule for the next 14 days:
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Because of the precipitation that has pounded L.A. in recent days (and continues to pour down this morning), Howard Jones Field has been deemed unplayable for today's practice, so the Trojans will be practicing on the FieldTurf of Cromwell Field for their workout at noon.
Preparation for the Emerald Bowl, now just two weeks away, begins this morning.
The Trojans are getting set to gather for meetings before a practice at noon, officially commencing the two-week foundation-laying process for the Emerald Bowl against Boston College on Dec. 26. Take a look at the team's schedule for today:
10 a.m. • Special teams meeting
10:30 a.m. • Team meeting
10:45 a.m. • Offense/defense meetings
11 a.m. • Position group meetings
12 p.m. • Practice
The Trojans are getting set to gather for meetings before a practice at noon, officially commencing the two-week foundation-laying process for the Emerald Bowl against Boston College on Dec. 26. Take a look at the team's schedule for today:
10 a.m. • Special teams meeting
10:30 a.m. • Team meeting
10:45 a.m. • Offense/defense meetings
11 a.m. • Position group meetings
12 p.m. • Practice
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Good things coming: Record-breaking Emerald Bowl expected
- Starting it off: Bowl practices begin today
- Staying in the Bay: Hotel deals in SF
- Shifting for success: Moving the field from the wall
- A successful trip: Capurro ends a fruitful journey
- Exciting times ahead: Many positives surrounding the Emerald Bowl
About the only thing that went wrong during director of football operations Matt Capurro's trip to the Bay for the advanced logistics prep work was a delayed return flight back to L.A. Check out some concluding thoughts from the 24-hour whirlwind trip to check out the Emerald Bowl and all its surrounding activities and events:
All in all, things are coming together quite nicely for USC's trip to San Francisco for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
- AT&T Park is going to be an awesome place to play and watch a football game. The charming, state-of-the-art stadium along the Bay should be an ideal venue for the bowl matchup, especially with its quaint quirks and homey feel.
- Spending Christmas in San Francisco is actually going to be pretty cool. The city, which is decked out in Christmas décor, seems as seasonally festive as New York City, and the Trojans' team hotel is right next to Union Square, where an ice-skating rink and a massive Christmas tree add to the merry vibe of the season.
- The first-class hospitality of the Emerald Bowl organizers and hotel staff is exemplary, and it portends five-star royal treatment for the players, coaches and fans during the week-long stay in San Francisco prior to the game on Dec. 26.
- The adjustment to USC's practice and meeting routine won't be all that drastic. The Trojans are planning on conducting daily meetings at their hotel and then busing seven miles south to City College of San Francisco, where gleaming facilities await. The 15-minute bus ride shouldn't alter too much for the routine-driven Trojans, and the change of scenery will be a welcomed aspect of bowl week for the players and coaches.
All in all, things are coming together quite nicely for USC's trip to San Francisco for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
SAN FRANCISCO -- His duties now finished, director of football operations Matt Capurro is heading back to L.A.
After a jam-packed, 24-hour trip to San Francisco to complete all the logistical preparations for USC's week-long stay leading up to the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26, Capurro's toughest work has been completed, as the foundation has now been laid for a hopefully smooth and triumphant journey to the Bay Area for the game in 15 days.
"The trip was a very successful one," said Capurro, who's in his first season as the head of logistics for the Trojan football machine. "It always helps to be on site."
Capurro raved about USC's practice facility at City College of San Francisco and the team's downtown hotel, along with the AT&T Park game site.
"It's an interesting setup for football, but the guys are really going to like it and enjoy being there," he said. "It's a really neat venue whether it's for baseball or football."
After a jam-packed, 24-hour trip to San Francisco to complete all the logistical preparations for USC's week-long stay leading up to the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26, Capurro's toughest work has been completed, as the foundation has now been laid for a hopefully smooth and triumphant journey to the Bay Area for the game in 15 days.
"The trip was a very successful one," said Capurro, who's in his first season as the head of logistics for the Trojan football machine. "It always helps to be on site."
Capurro raved about USC's practice facility at City College of San Francisco and the team's downtown hotel, along with the AT&T Park game site.
"It's an interesting setup for football, but the guys are really going to like it and enjoy being there," he said. "It's a really neat venue whether it's for baseball or football."
SAN FRANCISCO -- The left-field bleacher creatures at AT&T Park will find themselves very close to the action for the Emerald Bowl.
Not as close as previous years, though.
In conjunction with AT&T Park groundskeepers, Emerald Bowl officials have found a way to shift the football field roughly four feet farther from the left-field wall that had run just 3.5 feet from the back of the east end zone for the game's first seven years. The move, which now puts the back end line eight feet away from the wall, makes the field safer while also allowing room for a regulation, curved goal post instead of the more basic straight uprights (commonly found at high school fields) that had been used previously.
Emerald Bowl officials remember just one player running into the wall during the bowl's seven-game history, though they agreed the collision was somewhat theatric after a touchdown catch. No one's ever been hurt because of the proximity of the wall to the end zone, but this year's adjustment should be more out of harm's way and more like a normal football field for the Dec. 26 game.
Also, the dirt warning track that had run along the wall and into about half of the east end zone has been replaced with sod, making nearly the entire field pure grass (just a portion of the west end zone will be on the rubberized track material along the first-base line at AT&T Park).
The current east end zone back line, faintly seen after two United Football League games at the stadium, is just 3.5 feet from the left-field wall at AT&T Park, but groundskeepers will be shifting the field more than four feet farther away from the wall for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
Not as close as previous years, though.
In conjunction with AT&T Park groundskeepers, Emerald Bowl officials have found a way to shift the football field roughly four feet farther from the left-field wall that had run just 3.5 feet from the back of the east end zone for the game's first seven years. The move, which now puts the back end line eight feet away from the wall, makes the field safer while also allowing room for a regulation, curved goal post instead of the more basic straight uprights (commonly found at high school fields) that had been used previously.
Emerald Bowl officials remember just one player running into the wall during the bowl's seven-game history, though they agreed the collision was somewhat theatric after a touchdown catch. No one's ever been hurt because of the proximity of the wall to the end zone, but this year's adjustment should be more out of harm's way and more like a normal football field for the Dec. 26 game.
Also, the dirt warning track that had run along the wall and into about half of the east end zone has been replaced with sod, making nearly the entire field pure grass (just a portion of the west end zone will be on the rubberized track material along the first-base line at AT&T Park).
The current east end zone back line, faintly seen after two United Football League games at the stadium, is just 3.5 feet from the left-field wall at AT&T Park, but groundskeepers will be shifting the field more than four feet farther away from the wall for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Following a morning filled with meetings with hotel personnel, director of football operations Matt Capurro has all but completed his preparatory duties in San Francisco for Emerald Bowl week, which begins Dec. 21 and leads into the game on Dec. 26.
Fortunately for Capurro, most of the prep work for the bowl -- including all the hotel, food, transportation, practice and game day arrangements -- closely mimics what he does for any road game during the regular season, since the Trojans are men of rigid routine when it comes to meals, schedules and other factors that come along with traveling for a game.
"We're definitely creatures of habit," Capurro said.
Fortunately for Capurro, most of the prep work for the bowl -- including all the hotel, food, transportation, practice and game day arrangements -- closely mimics what he does for any road game during the regular season, since the Trojans are men of rigid routine when it comes to meals, schedules and other factors that come along with traveling for a game.
"We're definitely creatures of habit," Capurro said.
On the 32nd floor overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge, the entire San Francisco skyline and the Bay, the Alexandra Room at the host hotel for USC during Emerald Bowl week will be the site of the Trojans' Christmas dinner on the night before the game. The USC hotel for its five-day stay for Emerald Bowl week is considered one of the nicest in San Francisco.
The Trojans will open bowl season Saturday with 10 a.m. meetings and a noon practice to officially kick off Emerald Bowl preparation. Here's a look at USC's full practice schedule leading up to the matchup against Boston College on Dec. 26 in San Francisco:
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Looking for hotel arrangements in San Francisco for your trip to the Emerald Bowl?
Check out the USC host hotel, the first-class Westin St. Francis in downtown San Francisco, which is offering a special reduced rate starting at $139 per night throughout the 12 days surrounding the game. You can also access the special offer by calling (866) 716-8126 and requesting the Emerald Bowl rate.
Check out the USC host hotel, the first-class Westin St. Francis in downtown San Francisco, which is offering a special reduced rate starting at $139 per night throughout the 12 days surrounding the game. You can also access the special offer by calling (866) 716-8126 and requesting the Emerald Bowl rate.
Coach Carroll has advanced to become one of 15 finalists for the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Award. The fan voting for the finalists will begin Tuesday.
Safety Troy Polamalu has been named to the NFL Player Association's All-Fundamentals Team.
SAN FRANCISCO -- It could be a record-breaking year for the Emerald Bowl.
Last year's Emerald Bowl between California and Miami sold out AT&T Park and produced a 4.6 rating on ESPN, the eighth highest rated bowl game in the history of the network and the best TV stats in the bowl's seven-season history. And this year, with an in-state, high-profile team such as USC and a matchup of 8-4 squads, Emerald Bowl officials are expecting another sellout and an even better TV rating for the Dec. 26 game, set to kick off at 5 p.m. on ESPN.
"We couldn't have picked a better matchup," Emerald Bowl executive director Gary Cavalli said.
Last year's Emerald Bowl between California and Miami sold out AT&T Park and produced a 4.6 rating on ESPN, the eighth highest rated bowl game in the history of the network and the best TV stats in the bowl's seven-season history. And this year, with an in-state, high-profile team such as USC and a matchup of 8-4 squads, Emerald Bowl officials are expecting another sellout and an even better TV rating for the Dec. 26 game, set to kick off at 5 p.m. on ESPN.
"We couldn't have picked a better matchup," Emerald Bowl executive director Gary Cavalli said.
SAN FRANCISCO -- With some more hotel logistics to cover this morning, director of football operations Matt Capurro will be wrapping up his advance planning trip for the Emerald Bowl during the next few hours. After discussing menu necessities for USC's dozen full-scale buffet meals, room arrangements and other hotel-related details with the staff of the team's San Francisco headquarters leading up to the Dec. 26 game, Capurro will then be on a plane back to L.A. early this afternoon -- with essentially all the preparation for the Emerald Bowl complete, thanks to this 24-hour whirlwind trip to the Bay.
SAN FRANCISCO -- In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Treated well: Emerald Bowl one of the best
- Mays an All-American: Third straight year
- Plush quarters: Nice downtown hotel
- Man of the media: Carroll meets the press
- Live from AT&T Park: Behind-the-scenes tour
- Field study: Prepping the grass for football
- Sideline sideshow: Sharing the same bench area
SAN FRANCISCO -- It's been a hectic day of preparation for director of football operations Matt Capurro on his advance logistics trip to the Bay Area. Take a glimpse at the plethora of logistics and planning duties that were covered today, as almost all of the bowl week organization and scheduling for the Trojans was completed during the past 12 hours:
- Hotel: Coordinating meeting rooms, hospitality suites for players and coaches, dining areas and hotel room assignments.
- AT&T Park: Scoping out the locker room, coaches box, filming areas, dropping off points for the buses, walk from the locker room and field condition.
- Practice facility: Arranging for use of field space, weightlifting areas, training room, locker room, meeting rooms, laundry and even the school's indoor basketball arena (as a contingency practice site in case weather becomes unbearable).
- Bowl organizers: Discussing the bowl week schedule, entertainment activities, transportation issues, charter flight information and hospitality requests for university officials, among much more.
SAN FRANCISCO -- USC and Boston College will have to learn to share at the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
At least when it comes to the sideline.
The two teams will be on the same side of the field for the bowl matchup, with a 10-yard border -- between the 45-yard lines and featuring the game's trophy and a few uniformed officers -- separating the two bench areas. But why exactly is this the case?
Because AT&T Park is a baseball stadium, the lowest seats are right at field level, unlike a football stadium, where the first row is at least seven or eight feet high. So if the north sideline of the AT&T Park football field was inhabited by one of the teams, the first 10 rows of seats would be lost, sacrificing hundreds of prime tickets in an already small stadium (capacity is around 40,000 for football).
"We're not doing it to be cute," Emerald Bowl hospitality director Steve Steinhart said.
Meanwhile the temporary bleachers behind the bench areas are elevated 10 feet, making those some of the best seats in the stadium because of their proximity to the action.
Steinhart said almost every coach in the bowl's previous seven games has liked the change of pace, though it's not something they said they would want to do throughout the season.
The only foreseeable complication of the sideline sharing would be when players have to make substitutions or coaches have to signal plays in to the opposite side of the field. But have no fear, Steinhart said, as it's a challenge that's been overcome throughout the Emerald Bowl's history.
"We've never had a delay of game penalty in the seven years we've played this game," Steinhart said.
At least when it comes to the sideline.
The two teams will be on the same side of the field for the bowl matchup, with a 10-yard border -- between the 45-yard lines and featuring the game's trophy and a few uniformed officers -- separating the two bench areas. But why exactly is this the case?
Because AT&T Park is a baseball stadium, the lowest seats are right at field level, unlike a football stadium, where the first row is at least seven or eight feet high. So if the north sideline of the AT&T Park football field was inhabited by one of the teams, the first 10 rows of seats would be lost, sacrificing hundreds of prime tickets in an already small stadium (capacity is around 40,000 for football).
"We're not doing it to be cute," Emerald Bowl hospitality director Steve Steinhart said.
Meanwhile the temporary bleachers behind the bench areas are elevated 10 feet, making those some of the best seats in the stadium because of their proximity to the action.
Steinhart said almost every coach in the bowl's previous seven games has liked the change of pace, though it's not something they said they would want to do throughout the season.
The only foreseeable complication of the sideline sharing would be when players have to make substitutions or coaches have to signal plays in to the opposite side of the field. But have no fear, Steinhart said, as it's a challenge that's been overcome throughout the Emerald Bowl's history.
"We've never had a delay of game penalty in the seven years we've played this game," Steinhart said.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Though the Emerald Bowl will be contested in a baseball stadium, groundskeepers are ensuring the game will be played on a football field.
The dirt infield and pitchers mound were removed Oct. 5, just days after the completion of the Major League Baseball regular season. The entire turf was dug up and new blue rye grass was planted, giving the field a uniform look and feel on the Coliseum-esque three-quarter-inch-tall fast track. And the grass has had more than two months to take root, setting the stage for some prime turf come game day on Dec. 26.
And AT&T Park even had a couple of dry runs as a football venue this fall, as the United Football League hosted two games at the stadium during the past few months.
The dirt infield and pitchers mound were removed Oct. 5, just days after the completion of the Major League Baseball regular season. The entire turf was dug up and new blue rye grass was planted, giving the field a uniform look and feel on the Coliseum-esque three-quarter-inch-tall fast track. And the grass has had more than two months to take root, setting the stage for some prime turf come game day on Dec. 26.
And AT&T Park even had a couple of dry runs as a football venue this fall, as the United Football League hosted two games at the stadium during the past few months.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Check out some behind-the-scenes photos from the USC logistics trip's tour of AT&T Park this afternoon. The Trojans will face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl at home stadium of the San Francisco Giants on Dec. 26.
A view from the home plate side of AT&T Park, overlooking the field and bay.
A view from the San Francisco Giants dugout, from where the Trojans will enter the field for the Emerald Bowl.
A view from the 50-yard line on the club level.
A view from down the left field line at AT&T Park, which will be near the corner of the end zone.
A view inside the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, which will be the Trojans' locker room at the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
A view of Barry Bonds' former space in the Giants clubhouse, which included four full-sized lockers along one whole wall of the room.
A view of the visitor's clubhouse at AT&T Park, which will serve as Boston College's locker room during the Emerald Bowl.
The USC coaches box is a converted luxury suite at AT&T Park.
The view from the coaches box at AT&T Park.
The goalpost stands sit along the wall, ready to be installed for the Emerald Bowl.
Part of the west end zone will be on the rubberized track that surrounds the AT&T Park field.
The left field bullpen mounds have been removed from the AT&T Park field.
A view from the home plate side of AT&T Park, overlooking the field and bay.
A view from the San Francisco Giants dugout, from where the Trojans will enter the field for the Emerald Bowl.
A view from the 50-yard line on the club level.
A view from down the left field line at AT&T Park, which will be near the corner of the end zone.
A view inside the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, which will be the Trojans' locker room at the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
A view of Barry Bonds' former space in the Giants clubhouse, which included four full-sized lockers along one whole wall of the room.
A view of the visitor's clubhouse at AT&T Park, which will serve as Boston College's locker room during the Emerald Bowl.
The USC coaches box is a converted luxury suite at AT&T Park.
The view from the coaches box at AT&T Park.
The goalpost stands sit along the wall, ready to be installed for the Emerald Bowl.
Part of the west end zone will be on the rubberized track that surrounds the AT&T Park field.
The left field bullpen mounds have been removed from the AT&T Park field.
SAN FRANCISCO -- Coach Carroll's brief time in the Bay Area on Thursday included an onslaught of media appearances, including radio, TV and print interviews. Take a look at his busy afternoon:
Coach Carroll and Boston College coach Frank Spaziani appear together on KNBR 680-AM on Thursday afternoon.
Coach Carroll gets interviewed on Comcast SportsNet, a San Francisco-based sports television station.
Coach Carroll appears on Comcast SportsNet's "Chronicle Live" on Thursday evening.
Coach Carroll and Boston College coach Frank Spaziani appear together on KNBR 680-AM on Thursday afternoon.
Coach Carroll gets interviewed on Comcast SportsNet, a San Francisco-based sports television station.
Coach Carroll appears on Comcast SportsNet's "Chronicle Live" on Thursday evening.
During their week-long stay in the Bay Area, the Trojans are scheduled to practice three times at the stadium of the City College of San Francisco. The facility features FieldTurf in excellent condition, which should make practices during a potentially rainy week much more bearable.
The USC team headquarters, where the Trojans will stay for five nights leading up to the Emerald Bowl, is a top-of-the-line hotel in the heart of San Francisco and adjacent to Union Square.
SAN FRANCISCO -- The whirlwind day in the Bay has started to wind down.
A full slate of logistical preparations for USC's trip for the Emerald Bowl in two weeks has been completed, leaving just a handful of final preparatory duties for Friday morning. Coach Carroll, following an afternoon of touring the team's practice and playing sites and fulfilling various media requirements, is at a bowl sponsor's dinner before flying back to L.A. tonight.
A full slate of logistical preparations for USC's trip for the Emerald Bowl in two weeks has been completed, leaving just a handful of final preparatory duties for Friday morning. Coach Carroll, following an afternoon of touring the team's practice and playing sites and fulfilling various media requirements, is at a bowl sponsor's dinner before flying back to L.A. tonight.
Safety Taylor Mays has been named a Walter Camp first-team All-American, making him USC's fourth three-time All-American. Mays has a USC-best 91 tackles this season.
As part of his Emerald Bowl media activities today, Coach Carroll will appear on the San Francisco-based KNBR sports radio station between 4 and 4:30 p.m. Listen live here.
SAN FRANCISCO -- After a low-key morning of meetings at the team's Emerald Bowl hotel near Union Square, the Trojan logistics planning party is about to embark on an eventful afternoon. Here's a look at the rest of the day's schedule in San Francisco, and we'll continue to be posting updates from the road through the rest of the trip:
- Tour of City College of San Francisco, the practice site for the Trojans during their stay leading up to the Emerald Bowl
- Tour of AT&T Park, including the locker room and field
- Coach Carroll's media activities, including radio and TV interviews
SAN FRANCISCO -- All signs point to the Emerald Bowl being a fantastic week-long experience for the Trojans.
Just ask Bobby Bowden.
"Coach Bowden said, 'If you can't be in a BCS bowl, the Emerald Bowl is the place to be,'" Emerald Bowl hospitality coordinator Steve Steinhart said of the legendary coach of Florida State, which played in the San Francisco bowl in 2006. "We take really good care of the teams."
Just ask Bobby Bowden.
"Coach Bowden said, 'If you can't be in a BCS bowl, the Emerald Bowl is the place to be,'" Emerald Bowl hospitality coordinator Steve Steinhart said of the legendary coach of Florida State, which played in the San Francisco bowl in 2006. "We take really good care of the teams."
SAN FRANCISCO -- USC's advance logistics trip is well underway, as the Trojan party just wrapped up a meeting with Emerald Bowl officials to go through the 44-page bowl informational manual containing every nook-and-cranny tidbit pertaining to the game and week stay in San Francisco.
The remainder of the day will include a visit to the team's practice site at City College of San Francisco, a stopover at AT&T Park, a hotel tour and media events with Coach Carroll. Stay tuned with USCRipsIt as we take you through the action-packed day.
The remainder of the day will include a visit to the team's practice site at City College of San Francisco, a stopover at AT&T Park, a hotel tour and media events with Coach Carroll. Stay tuned with USCRipsIt as we take you through the action-packed day.
USCRipsIt will be on the road for the next two days, tagging along with director of football operations Matt Capurro and his logistical preparation trip for the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. We'll be posting info and photos from the journey as often as we can connect to internet access, but in the meantime, we'll also be providing occasional updates through USCRipsIt's Twitter account.
So stay tuned to USCRipsIt throughout today and Friday for exciting, behind-the-scenes coverage from San Francisco, including reports from AT&T Park, USC's practice site and other Emerald Bowl-related locales.
So stay tuned to USCRipsIt throughout today and Friday for exciting, behind-the-scenes coverage from San Francisco, including reports from AT&T Park, USC's practice site and other Emerald Bowl-related locales.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- The Trojan rookie boon: First-year NFLers stepping up
- Extra bowl experiences: Beyond the Rose Bowl
- Nice digs: AT&T Park considered one of the best
- Get your tickets: For the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26
- Logistical adjustments: Oddities of playing in a baseball stadium
- Gift-giving season: Bowl presents
- Extracurricular entertainment: Bowl events
- All is calm: Carroll's office quiet
Coach Carroll's Heritage Hall office sits uncharacteristically quiet today, his second consecutive day on the recruiting trail. Carroll, who left his headquarters with film from the Arizona game still up on the TV screen, is joined by many of his assistants on the road this week as they make a recruiting push around the nation, state and area. The head man will be in San Francisco on Thursday afternoon for an Emerald Bowl press conference, and the entire staff is scheduled to return to campus Friday.
Besides their usual daily practices and meetings, the Trojans will also participate in several fun-filled, non-football activities during their stay in San Francisco on Dec. 21 through 25, leading up to the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26. Here's the list of activities the Trojans will be enjoying during their five-day stay in San Francisco prior to game day:
- Tour of Alcatraz Island: A visit to the legendary former prison
- City tour: A lengthy guided tour of San Francisco
- Comedy club: A night at a standup comedy house
- Dinner at a local restaurant: An all-you-can-eat players-only affair hosted by the Emerald Bowl
- Feeding the homeless at Glide Church: A community service event for players on Christmas day
Bowl season coincides perfectly with Christmastime, which makes total sense when you see the loot the players get to bring home each December.
And this year is no different, as the players will be receiving a stash of NCAA-permitted gifts from the Emerald Bowl and university for their participation in postseason play. Take a look at what the Trojans will get for playing in the Emerald Bowl:
And this year is no different, as the players will be receiving a stash of NCAA-permitted gifts from the Emerald Bowl and university for their participation in postseason play. Take a look at what the Trojans will get for playing in the Emerald Bowl:
- HP Netbook laptop computer
- Fossil watch with Emerald Bowl logo
- Armor Gear backpack
- Sports cap with Emerald Bowl logo
- $335 Best Buy gift card (from the university)
Playing in a temporarily converted baseball stadium will create some unique logistical challenges for the Trojans in the 2009 Emerald Bowl.
First, with USC and Boston College sharing the same sideline at AT&T Park in San Francisco, the bench areas could be chaotic, especially with substitutions that will occur on the opposite side of the field. And because of the alteration, each team's space in the bench area will be reduced from that at a normal football stadium.
The USC locker room setup will also be hairier than normal, as the San Francisco Giants' clubhouse, which serves as the home team's locker room, contains just 55 lockers, though it is a very spacious room. Most players will have to double up in the locker stalls to fit into the locker room.
Also, the coaches who typically go into the press box will instead be situated in a converted luxury suite along the left-field line of AT&T Park. They'll have the option of sitting inside the suite or outside among the elements.
And lastly, the videotaping of the game for coaches' film purposes will be a difficult mountain to climb relative to when the Trojans play at normal football stadiums, which feature specially constructed areas for filming. At AT&T Park, though, both the sideline and end zone cameras will be set up in the upper-deck stands, meaning there will be no electrical outlets and no cover from rain.
All in all, the Emerald Bowl is lining up to be an interesting logistical experience for many of the ancillary aspects of the Trojan football machine.
First, with USC and Boston College sharing the same sideline at AT&T Park in San Francisco, the bench areas could be chaotic, especially with substitutions that will occur on the opposite side of the field. And because of the alteration, each team's space in the bench area will be reduced from that at a normal football stadium.
The USC locker room setup will also be hairier than normal, as the San Francisco Giants' clubhouse, which serves as the home team's locker room, contains just 55 lockers, though it is a very spacious room. Most players will have to double up in the locker stalls to fit into the locker room.
Also, the coaches who typically go into the press box will instead be situated in a converted luxury suite along the left-field line of AT&T Park. They'll have the option of sitting inside the suite or outside among the elements.
And lastly, the videotaping of the game for coaches' film purposes will be a difficult mountain to climb relative to when the Trojans play at normal football stadiums, which feature specially constructed areas for filming. At AT&T Park, though, both the sideline and end zone cameras will be set up in the upper-deck stands, meaning there will be no electrical outlets and no cover from rain.
All in all, the Emerald Bowl is lining up to be an interesting logistical experience for many of the ancillary aspects of the Trojan football machine.
Wideout Damian Williams, offensive linemen Charles Brown and Jeff Byers and safety Taylor Mays have been named to ESPN.com's All-Pac-10 team.
Be sure to purchase from the 11,500-ticket Trojan allotment for the Emerald Bowl through the USC ticket office. Season-ticket holders can buy here, while non-season-ticket holders should go here to get seats in the official USC sections for the Dec. 26 game at AT&T Park.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl.
Here's a look at the AT&T Park seating diagram and where the USC sections will be for the bowl.
Not only will the Trojans be spending five days in one of the country's most cosmopolitan cities during Emerald Bowl prep, they'll also be playing in one of the nation's top stadiums.
Home of the San Francisco Giants, AT&T Park is routinely referred to as one of the top ballparks in Major League Baseball, and in 2008, the stadium was honored as sports facility of the year by Sports Business Journal.
USC and Boston College will face off in the 2009 Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park on Dec. 26 at 5 p.m. on ESPN. Get your tickets here.
Home of the San Francisco Giants, AT&T Park is routinely referred to as one of the top ballparks in Major League Baseball, and in 2008, the stadium was honored as sports facility of the year by Sports Business Journal.
USC and Boston College will face off in the 2009 Emerald Bowl at AT&T Park on Dec. 26 at 5 p.m. on ESPN. Get your tickets here.
Coming off four consecutive Rose Bowl appearances, the Trojans essentially have known nothing else but a trip to Pasadena on New Years Day.
Save for a few exceptions, that is.
Soon all 108 players on the roster will participate in a postseason game other than the Rose Bowl when the Emerald Bowl kicks off on Dec. 26, but as of now, only four current Trojans have played in a bowl other than the Rose, including two with other programs. Take a look:
Save for a few exceptions, that is.
Soon all 108 players on the roster will participate in a postseason game other than the Rose Bowl when the Emerald Bowl kicks off on Dec. 26, but as of now, only four current Trojans have played in a bowl other than the Rose, including two with other programs. Take a look:
- Sixth-year senior defensive back Josh Pinkard, then a freshman, saw action in the 2005 Orange Bowl, recording two tackles and a fumble recovery in USC's 55-19 title-clinching victory over Oklahoma.
- Sixth-year senior offensive lineman Jeff Byers appeared as a backup freshman center in the 2005 Orange Bowl as the Trojans stormed to the BCS championship.
- Senior kicker Jordan Congdon played in bowls during both his freshman and sophomore seasons at Nebraska. In the 2005 Alamo Bowl, Congdon hit three extra points and a field goal and in the Cotton Bowl following the 2006 season, he connected on two extra points. Congdon transferred to USC in 2007.
- Junior quarterback Mitch Mustain came off the bench in the 2007 Capital One Bowl as a freshman QB at Arkansas, completing 5-of-10 passes for 41 yards. Mustain transferred to USC in summer 2007.
Inarguably, USC lost a lot of talent to the NFL Draft following the 2008 season.
A closer look at the stats reveals just how incredibly much.
The 11 Trojan draft picks from last year have played in a combined 95 games and racked up a combined 54 starts during their rookie seasons this fall -- and that's through just Week 13. The USC-bred rookies are already making quite a name for themselves. Mark Sanchez is quarterback of a 6-6 New York Jets team that's one game out of a playoff spot, linebacker Brian Cushing is a top candidate for defensive rookie of the year and linebackers Rey Maualuga and Clay Matthews are forging star roles for themselves on their respective squads.
And that's just the beginning. Take a look at what all the Trojan rookies are doing during their first seasons in the NFL:
Linebacker Brian Cushing headlines a USC rookie class that has racked up 54 starts and appeared in 95 games so far during the NFL season. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
A closer look at the stats reveals just how incredibly much.
The 11 Trojan draft picks from last year have played in a combined 95 games and racked up a combined 54 starts during their rookie seasons this fall -- and that's through just Week 13. The USC-bred rookies are already making quite a name for themselves. Mark Sanchez is quarterback of a 6-6 New York Jets team that's one game out of a playoff spot, linebacker Brian Cushing is a top candidate for defensive rookie of the year and linebackers Rey Maualuga and Clay Matthews are forging star roles for themselves on their respective squads.
And that's just the beginning. Take a look at what all the Trojan rookies are doing during their first seasons in the NFL:
- QB Mark Sanchez (New York Jets, 1st round, 5th overall pick) • 12 starts, quarterbacking a 6-6 squad that's one game out of the AFC playoff race
- LB Brian Cushing (Houston Texans, 1st round, 15th overall pick) • 12 starts, 5th in the NFL with 102 tackles (No. 1 among rookies), 3 INTs, 12 passes defended (best among all LBs)
- LB Clay Matthews (Green Bay Packers, 1st round, 26th overall pick) • 9 starts (appeared in all 12 games), 13th in the NFL with 7 sacks (No. 1 among rookies), 2 forced fumbles
- LB Rey Maualuga (Cincinnati Bengals, 2nd round, 38th overall pick) • 12 starts
- DL Fili Moala • (Indianapolis Colts, 2nd round, 56th overall pick) • Appeared in 6 games
- WR Patrick Turner (Miami Dolphins, 3rd round, 87th overall pick) • Appeared in 2 games
- LB Kaluka Maiava (Cleveland Browns, 4th round, 104th overall pick) • 3 starts (appeared in all 12 games), 33 tackles, 2 forced fumbles
- DL Kyle Moore (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, 4th round, 117th overall pick) • Appeared in 4 games
- K David Buehler (Dallas Cowboys, 5th round, 172nd overall pick) • Appeared in all 12 games, 20 touchbacks (No. 4 in the NFL) in just 60 kickoffs, 66.6 yard kickoff average
- CB Cary Harris (Buffalo Bills, 6th round, 183rd overall pick) • Appeared in 2 games
- S Kevin Ellison (San Diego Chargers, 6th round,189th overall pick) • 6 starts (appeared in 9 games), 36 tackles
Linebacker Brian Cushing headlines a USC rookie class that has racked up 54 starts and appeared in 95 games so far during the NFL season. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
Starting Thursday, director of football operations Matt Capurro will be getting a jumpstart on Emerald Bowl preparation -- and USCRipsIt will be taking you along for the ride with him.
To close out the week, Capurro will spend 24 hours in San Francisco to work out logistical details for the Trojans' five-day stay leading up to the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl. During his time in San Francisco on Thursday and Friday, Capurro is scheduled to visit USC's downtown hotel, the practice facility and AT&T Park, along with exploring potential team entertainment activities and hashing out timing and scheduling issues.
USCRipsIt will be joining Capurro and taking you along for the advance trip, so be sure to stayed tuned with the RipsIt Blog on Thursday and Friday for special updates from the road, including behind-the-scenes info and photos as the Trojans prepare for the 2009 Emerald Bowl. Also, don't forget to check out USCRipIt on Twitter for up-to-the-minute reports during the trip.
To close out the week, Capurro will spend 24 hours in San Francisco to work out logistical details for the Trojans' five-day stay leading up to the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl. During his time in San Francisco on Thursday and Friday, Capurro is scheduled to visit USC's downtown hotel, the practice facility and AT&T Park, along with exploring potential team entertainment activities and hashing out timing and scheduling issues.
USCRipsIt will be joining Capurro and taking you along for the advance trip, so be sure to stayed tuned with the RipsIt Blog on Thursday and Friday for special updates from the road, including behind-the-scenes info and photos as the Trojans prepare for the 2009 Emerald Bowl. Also, don't forget to check out USCRipIt on Twitter for up-to-the-minute reports during the trip.
The Trojan Marching Band will, in effect, be playing a solo concert at the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco.
Boston College announced it will not be sending its marching band to the Dec. 26 game because of cost-cutting and timing reasons, according to this Boston Globe article. The university's controversial decision to not send the 180-member band was made to save money and because of the game's proximity to Christmas.
Meanwhile, the Trojan Marching Band will travel more than 200 members to the game. The USC Song Girls and Spirit Leaders will also be in attendance.
Boston College announced it will not be sending its marching band to the Dec. 26 game because of cost-cutting and timing reasons, according to this Boston Globe article. The university's controversial decision to not send the 180-member band was made to save money and because of the game's proximity to Christmas.
Meanwhile, the Trojan Marching Band will travel more than 200 members to the game. The USC Song Girls and Spirit Leaders will also be in attendance.
Finals start today at USC, meaning players are in full-bore study and test-taking mode until exams end next Wednesday. Meetings and practices on Saturday and Sunday, the bowl season's first for the Trojans, will be the only football-oriented study breaks until finals wrap up a week from today.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Academic rivalry: USC and BC similar off the field
- Senior tribute: Photo album from senior salute
- Running wild: Conditioning workouts
- School spirit to travel north: Band, Song Girls heading to SF
- Ticket talk: Get your Emerald Bowl tickets
- Seating arrangement: AT&T Park layout
- Perry honored: Freshman All-American
- Coaching connection: Carroll and Spaziani go way back
However brief, Coach Carroll and first-year Boston College coach Frank Spaziani have a history together.In 1982, Carroll, then the 31-year-old defensive coordinator for North Carolina State, met Spaziani, a 35-year-old defensive backs coach for Virginia, when the two programs faced off in Charlottesville. On that day, Carroll's Wolfpack topped the Cavaliers, 16-13.
After that season, Carroll went on to Pacific for one year and the NFL for 16 seasons before arriving at USC in 2001. Spaziani coached at Virginia for eight more seasons prior to five years in the Canadian Football League, before ultimately settling in at Boston College, where he's been on staff since 1997.
Carroll, now 58, said he clearly remembers the 1982 meeting and is excited to see the 62-year-old Spaziani again at the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26.
"It'll be fun to reconnect after all these years," Carroll said.
Defensive end Nick Perry, who racked up seven sacks this season, has been named to CollegeFootballNews.com's freshman All-American team.
The Trojan Marching Band and USC Song Girls will be at the Emerald Bowl, but one jewel of the school's spirit unfortunately will not be making the trip.
Traveler, USC's majestic mascot, will not be in attendance at the Dec. 26 bowl game at San Francisco's AT&T Park. The white horse and its Trojan warrior rider only appear at games at the Coliseum and have not taken any road trips in recent seasons. The only non-Coliseum contests Traveler has appeared at have been the recent run of Rose Bowls, since it's just a short drive to Pasadena.
Traveler, USC's majestic mascot, will not be in attendance at the Dec. 26 bowl game at San Francisco's AT&T Park. The white horse and its Trojan warrior rider only appear at games at the Coliseum and have not taken any road trips in recent seasons. The only non-Coliseum contests Traveler has appeared at have been the recent run of Rose Bowls, since it's just a short drive to Pasadena.
USC's 11,500-seat ticket allotment for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl will predominantly be in the northeast corner of the stadium. Here's a list of all the USC sections for the matchup against Boston College at AT&T Park in San Francisco:
You can purchase tickets in these sections through the USC ticket office website or by calling (213) 740-GOSC. Take a look at where the Trojan cheering sections will be for the Emerald Bowl (shaded gray):
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
- Sections 110, 112-115, 127-135, 136-137
- Sections 208-211, 227-232
- Sections 327-336
- Sideline bleacher sections A and B
You can purchase tickets in these sections through the USC ticket office website or by calling (213) 740-GOSC. Take a look at where the Trojan cheering sections will be for the Emerald Bowl (shaded gray):
USC's sections for the 2009 Emerald Bowl are shaded gray
Coach Carroll finished in ninth place in the fan voting portion of the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year award, with the 15 top vote-getters now being put through the evaluation process. Fan voting will resume on Dec. 15. If Carroll wins, $50,000 will be donated to A Better LA, the inner-city charity he helped found.
During Monday afternoon's team meeting, the players voted on this season's most valuable and most inspirational players, and the results will be announced, along with numerous other honors, at the team's end-of-the-year awards banquet at Club Nokia on Sunday night.
Last year's MVP was linebacker Rey Maualuga and the most inspirational player was defensive end Kyle Moore.
Last year's MVP was linebacker Rey Maualuga and the most inspirational player was defensive end Kyle Moore.
The Trojan Marching Band and USC Song Girls will be in full force at the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl in San Francisco.
The band and Song Girls will perform in a free pre-game pep rally at San Francisco's Union Square at 11 a.m. on Dec. 26 before heading to AT&T Park for the game at 5 p.m. that evening. The Trojan Marching Band will then perform a six-minute pre-game show prior to kickoff and then later during halftime.
At AT&T Park, the Trojan Marching Band will be sitting in the east end zone in sections 136 and 137, which is equivalent to the left field bleachers for the stadium's baseball configuration.
The band and Song Girls will perform in a free pre-game pep rally at San Francisco's Union Square at 11 a.m. on Dec. 26 before heading to AT&T Park for the game at 5 p.m. that evening. The Trojan Marching Band will then perform a six-minute pre-game show prior to kickoff and then later during halftime.
At AT&T Park, the Trojan Marching Band will be sitting in the east end zone in sections 136 and 137, which is equivalent to the left field bleachers for the stadium's baseball configuration.
(From left to right) Defensive lineman DaJohn Harris, defensive back Rob Erickson, linebacker Shane Horton, defensive back Daniel Harper, defensive end Wes Horton, fullback D.J. Shoemate and safety Drew McAllister go through sprints during this morning's strength and conditioning workouts on Cromwell Field. Players also conducted weightlifting sessions in Heritage Hall this morning on their second straight day of workouts, and they now have the next three days off before opening the bowl practice schedule on Saturday.
USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng and assistant photographer Yu-Chin Chiu captured the entire Senior Salute on Saturday at the Coliseum, chronicling the tribute to the Trojans 22 seniors. Take a look at this special album honoring the USC seniors:
The Emerald Bowl not only pits two 8-4 teams in USC and Boston College.
The game will feature two outstanding academic institutions, as well.
USC is No. 26 in the latest U.S. News and World Report national university rankings, while Boston College is No. 34. The admission rates at the two schools are similar, as USC accepts 21.9 percent of applicants while Boston College takes 26.2 percent.
Interestingly enough, the two universities' annual costs per student are just $6 apart. USC's yearly tuition and fees total $39,124 and Boston College's is $39,130, according to U.S. News and World Report.
The game will feature two outstanding academic institutions, as well.
USC is No. 26 in the latest U.S. News and World Report national university rankings, while Boston College is No. 34. The admission rates at the two schools are similar, as USC accepts 21.9 percent of applicants while Boston College takes 26.2 percent.
Interestingly enough, the two universities' annual costs per student are just $6 apart. USC's yearly tuition and fees total $39,124 and Boston College's is $39,130, according to U.S. News and World Report.
The USC football office is a veritable ghost town this week, as nearly all the coaches are on the road recruiting locally and nationally. They'll be racking up the frequent flier miles and rental car rewards points all week before returning in time for Saturday's practice, the first of Emerald Bowl prep for the Trojans.
Green Bay Packers rookie linebacker Clay Matthews recorded two sacks, three QB hits and six total tackles in the Packers' 27-14 win over Baltimore on Monday night. His performance has earned him a place as the cover boy of ESPN.com this morning:
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Bowl tickets: Get them now
- Home bodies: USC to wear cardinal jerseys
- Dual purpose stadium: Playing at AT&T Park
- Several Trojans selected to All-Pac-10 teams: Four on first-team
- Practice schedule: 10 workouts before bowl
- Resurrection time: "Starting now"
- Buzzworthy: Getting up for the bowl
Any doubts the Trojans won't be excited for the Emerald Bowl can be thrown out the window now.
Calling attention to quotes from Taylor Mays and Kevin Thomas in today's L.A. Times, Coach Carroll invigorated the team's perspective on the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl in San Francisco. To further create an excitement for the game and three-week preparation process, Carroll also showed a slideshow containing pictures of the city, AT&T Park, Alcatraz and the team's plush downtown hotel, a presentation that filled Heritage Auditorium with oooo's and ahhhh's.
"Taylor and Kevin couldn't have said it better -- we truly enjoy practicing, being together as a team and playing the game," Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting. "We're going to have a ton of fun practicing and playing football and going through all the bowl activities, just like we do every year."
Calling attention to quotes from Taylor Mays and Kevin Thomas in today's L.A. Times, Coach Carroll invigorated the team's perspective on the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl in San Francisco. To further create an excitement for the game and three-week preparation process, Carroll also showed a slideshow containing pictures of the city, AT&T Park, Alcatraz and the team's plush downtown hotel, a presentation that filled Heritage Auditorium with oooo's and ahhhh's.
"Taylor and Kevin couldn't have said it better -- we truly enjoy practicing, being together as a team and playing the game," Carroll said during this afternoon's team meeting. "We're going to have a ton of fun practicing and playing football and going through all the bowl activities, just like we do every year."
As the Trojans use the bowl partly as a stepping stone to the future, what kind of role will the outgoing seniors play in everything?
A very large one, actually.
"Seniors, you have one more chance to make a statement, to pass on who you are and to play for your future," Coach Carroll told the team during this afternoon's meeting. "There's a lot of this game for you guys.
"Pass these things on to your teammates on your way out of here. You owe it to them."
A very large one, actually.
"Seniors, you have one more chance to make a statement, to pass on who you are and to play for your future," Coach Carroll told the team during this afternoon's meeting. "There's a lot of this game for you guys.
"Pass these things on to your teammates on your way out of here. You owe it to them."
This afternoon's team meeting, the first since the loss and first of bowl season, might just be a seminal moment in the current and imminent state of the Trojans.
In typically empowering and motivating fashion, Coach Carroll forged the lessons of the past with the hope of the future to restore a positive mentality for the present as the Trojans begin preparations for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl against Boston College.
"We have to capture where we are and take it to the top," Carroll told his players in a hushed Heritage Auditorium. "Our mentality needs to shift to capture this thing. Our gears have to shift.
"I'm not waiting until after the bowl. I want it starting now."
Carroll discussed the teachable moments from this season while also pointing to the team's impending realities, such as the Emerald Bowl in 19 days and what that will mean to the future of the program. The steps the players take now will blaze a trail for where the team will soon be.
"Re-" was a common prefix throughout Carroll's talk, as it's all about re-creating what had produced seven straight conference titles, BCS bowl appearances and 11-win seasons.
"How far can we take this? Ain't nothing to hold us back but us," Carroll said. "I want to restart this thing now."
But how will that rebirth happen? Carroll had an answer.
"I can only think of one way to go about this -- let's go for it, all out," he said, referring to the Emerald Bowl. "Let's make this everything we can make it. Let's max it out.
"The challenge is there; we've got a hill to climb. But we can rise to the opportunity."
Coach Carroll speaks to his players during this afternoon's team meeting, the first since Saturday's loss.
In typically empowering and motivating fashion, Coach Carroll forged the lessons of the past with the hope of the future to restore a positive mentality for the present as the Trojans begin preparations for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl against Boston College.
"We have to capture where we are and take it to the top," Carroll told his players in a hushed Heritage Auditorium. "Our mentality needs to shift to capture this thing. Our gears have to shift.
"I'm not waiting until after the bowl. I want it starting now."
Carroll discussed the teachable moments from this season while also pointing to the team's impending realities, such as the Emerald Bowl in 19 days and what that will mean to the future of the program. The steps the players take now will blaze a trail for where the team will soon be.
"Re-" was a common prefix throughout Carroll's talk, as it's all about re-creating what had produced seven straight conference titles, BCS bowl appearances and 11-win seasons.
"How far can we take this? Ain't nothing to hold us back but us," Carroll said. "I want to restart this thing now."
But how will that rebirth happen? Carroll had an answer.
"I can only think of one way to go about this -- let's go for it, all out," he said, referring to the Emerald Bowl. "Let's make this everything we can make it. Let's max it out.
"The challenge is there; we've got a hill to climb. But we can rise to the opportunity."
Coach Carroll speaks to his players during this afternoon's team meeting, the first since Saturday's loss.
To start out this afternoon's team meeting, Coach Carroll quickly rehashed what happened in Saturday's 21-17 loss. Though he expressed disappointment for what ultimately transpired in the end, he drew attention to the defense's stellar play for much of the second half.
Until Arizona's game-winning drive at the conclusion of the fourth quarter, the USC defense allowed just 22 total yards on 13 plays in the second half. Of their four drives prior to the game-winning series, the Wildcats were forced into three three-and-outs and went 0-for-4 on third-down opportunities. Then, the final drive saw Arizona march 80 yards in 10 plays -- including 3-for-3 on third downs -- to clinch the victory, though Carroll pointed back to the defense's play for a large majority of the half as something to build on.
"I don't want you to lose what that feels like -- that was dominating," Carroll said of the defense's performance over most of the last two quarters. "Let's take that into this next game."
Until Arizona's game-winning drive at the conclusion of the fourth quarter, the USC defense allowed just 22 total yards on 13 plays in the second half. Of their four drives prior to the game-winning series, the Wildcats were forced into three three-and-outs and went 0-for-4 on third-down opportunities. Then, the final drive saw Arizona march 80 yards in 10 plays -- including 3-for-3 on third downs -- to clinch the victory, though Carroll pointed back to the defense's play for a large majority of the half as something to build on.
"I don't want you to lose what that feels like -- that was dominating," Carroll said of the defense's performance over most of the last two quarters. "Let's take that into this next game."
The Trojans' Emerald Bowl practice schedule has already undergone an adjustment, with the team now set to practice this coming weekend instead of opening the preparation next Monday. Here's a look at the updated practice schedule:
Dec. 8-11 • Off
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Dec. 8-11 • Off
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
After a day off, the Trojans are gathering now for a team meeting, their first since Saturday's loss and most likely their last until bowl practices get rolling next week.
The Trojans will be getting a healthy break before diving into Emerald Bowl practices in preparation for the Dec. 26 matchup against Boston College. Take a look at USC's schedule for the coming weeks (UPDATED; subject to change):
Dec. 8-11 • Off
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
Dec. 8-11 • Off
Dec. 12-13 • Practice on campus at noon
Dec. 14-15 • Off
Dec. 16-18 • Practice on campus at 3:15 p.m.
Dec. 19-20 • Off
Dec. 21 • Morning practice; depart for San Francisco
Dec. 22-24 • Practice in San Francisco
Dec. 25 • Walk-thru at AT&T Park
Dec. 26 • Emerald Bowl vs. Boston College (Kickoff at 5:12 p.m.)
USC is well-represented on the 2009 All-Pac-10 teams, which were announced today.
Damian Williams was named an All-Pac-10 first-teamer as both a wideout and punt returner, Jeff Byers and Charles Brown were selected as first-team offensive linemen and Taylor Mays was named a first-team All-Pac-10 safety.
Defensive end Everson Griffen, defensive backs Josh Pinkard and Kevin Thomas and special teamer Garrett Green were named to the All-Pac-10 second team.
In addition to the combined nine first- and second-team selections, nine Trojans were named honorable mention All-Pac-10 players: tailback Allen Bradford, defensive lineman Jurrell Casey, linebacker Chris Galippo, safety Will Harris, offensive lineman Butch Lewis, tight end Anthony McCoy, tailback Joe McKnight, offensive lineman Tyron Smith and defensive lineman Christian Tupou.
Damian Williams was named an All-Pac-10 first-teamer as both a wideout and punt returner, Jeff Byers and Charles Brown were selected as first-team offensive linemen and Taylor Mays was named a first-team All-Pac-10 safety.
Defensive end Everson Griffen, defensive backs Josh Pinkard and Kevin Thomas and special teamer Garrett Green were named to the All-Pac-10 second team.
In addition to the combined nine first- and second-team selections, nine Trojans were named honorable mention All-Pac-10 players: tailback Allen Bradford, defensive lineman Jurrell Casey, linebacker Chris Galippo, safety Will Harris, offensive lineman Butch Lewis, tight end Anthony McCoy, tailback Joe McKnight, offensive lineman Tyron Smith and defensive lineman Christian Tupou.
The preparation has commenced.
Eric Espinoza, USC's director of video operations, started acquiring game film from Boston College on Sunday afternoon, immediately after learning of the bowl matchup. Because the Eagles faced Notre Dame, a program that buys space on the Pac-10's game film server, Espinoza could quickly obtain tape of Boston College's 20-16 loss to the Irish in October. The film from the Eagles' other 11 games has been attained directly through Boston College, with the painstaking downloading process starting last night and most likely lasting through Tuesday morning, Espinoza said.
Eric Espinoza, USC's director of video operations, started acquiring game film from Boston College on Sunday afternoon, immediately after learning of the bowl matchup. Because the Eagles faced Notre Dame, a program that buys space on the Pac-10's game film server, Espinoza could quickly obtain tape of Boston College's 20-16 loss to the Irish in October. The film from the Eagles' other 11 games has been attained directly through Boston College, with the painstaking downloading process starting last night and most likely lasting through Tuesday morning, Espinoza said.
USC will meet Boston College in the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl, which is played at AT&T Park, home of Major League Baseball's San Francisco Giants during the spring, summer and fall. The football field is laid out so that one end zone is along the left-field wall and the other end zone is along the first-base line, with the teams sharing the south sideline. Temporary bleachers are set up behind the bench area, where right field normally is.
Take a look at the fascinating stadium configuration and seating chart for the Emerald Bowl, and be sure to get your tickets here.
Take a look at the fascinating stadium configuration and seating chart for the Emerald Bowl, and be sure to get your tickets here.
Unlike the previous four seasons, USC isn't at home for the bowl.
But at least it's still the home team, as the Trojans have been designated as such and will wear their cardinal jerseys for the Emerald Bowl against Boston College on Dec. 26.
USC's locker room on game day will be the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, and the team will enter the field from the third-base dugout. Because of the awkward field configuration (since it's on a baseball diamond), USC and Boston College will share the same sideline, with the Trojans being on the southeast side (closest to left field) of the 50-yard line and the Eagles being on the southwest side (closest to first base) of the 50.
But at least it's still the home team, as the Trojans have been designated as such and will wear their cardinal jerseys for the Emerald Bowl against Boston College on Dec. 26.
USC's locker room on game day will be the San Francisco Giants clubhouse, and the team will enter the field from the third-base dugout. Because of the awkward field configuration (since it's on a baseball diamond), USC and Boston College will share the same sideline, with the Trojans being on the southeast side (closest to left field) of the 50-yard line and the Eagles being on the southwest side (closest to first base) of the 50.
USC's practice schedule for the next three weeks will be determined and announced today. The Trojans face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at San Francisco's AT&T Park.
See what happened in Trojan athletics during the past seven days:
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
- Men's water polo won their second consecutive national championship on Sunday with a 7-6 win over UCLA. It was the fifth consecutive appearance in the title match for the Trojans and their fifth national championship in school history.
- The women's volleyball team was eliminated from the NCAA tournament on Saturday following a second-round defeat to Hawaii. The Women of Troy won their first-round match over Oklahoma before losing at home to the Rainbow Wahine.
- Men's basketball lost to Texas and Georgia Tech on the road this past week. The Trojans are currently 2-4 and will host games against Sacramento State and Idaho State this week.
- Women's basketball beat Long Beach State before losing at Duke this past week. The team is currently 4-4 and will not play again until they host the Women of Troy Basketball Tournament in two weeks.
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Find out how USC alumni performed during Week 13 of the NFL season:
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Wideout Steve Smith had six catches for 110 yards in the Giants' 31-24 win over the Cowboys on Sunday. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
- Safety Kevin Ellison (San Diego Chargers) led the team with 8 tackles in the Chargers' 30-23 win over Cleveland.
- Quarterback Carson Palmer (Cincinnati Bengals) completed 17-of-29 passes for 220 yards and 1 touchdown in the Bengals' 23-13 win over Detroit.
- Quarterback Matt Cassel (Kansas City Chiefs) completed 10-of-29 passes for 84 yards in the Chiefs' 44-13 loss to Denver.
- Tailback Justin Fargas (Oakland Raiders) had 15 rushes for 63 yards in the Raiders' 27-24 win over Pittsburgh.
- Tight end Fred Davis (Washington Redskins) had 5 receptions for 53 yards and 1 touchdown in the Redskins' 33-30 loss to New Orleans.
- Wideout Steve Smith (New York Giants) had 6 receptions for 110 yards in the Giants' 31-24 win over Dallas.
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
Wideout Steve Smith had six catches for 110 yards in the Giants' 31-24 win over the Cowboys on Sunday. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
The Trojans are scheduled to leave for the Emerald Bowl two weeks from today, on Monday, Dec. 21, giving them a five-day stay in San Francisco leading up to the game on Saturday, Dec. 26 at 5 p.m.
The final push, a chance to finish right, an opportunity to redeem themselves all begin now.
Coming off another humbling defeat, the Trojans get back to work today to start preparations for the 2009 Emerald Bowl against Boston College. The previous game -- and three of the last five -- may be lost, but the season is not, and USC has one more shot to make it right.
Coaches, minus a handful who are on the road recruiting, will be in the office all day breaking down Saturday's loss and commencing film study of Boston College. Players, who get today and Tuesday off from classes before finals begin Wednesday, will be in strength and conditioning sessions this morning to officially dive into the last phase of the season.
Besides giving USC a chance to complete the season on a positive note, the Emerald Bowl will also afford the Trojans the extra three weeks of practice, meeting, workout and bonding time. It's during these days that the foundation is laid for present and future success, so every ounce of this preparation is lapped up and savored by players and coaches alike.
Game day -- and one final opportunity for redemption, righting the ship and that good feeling that follows a win -- is just 19 days away. Time to get ready.
Coming off another humbling defeat, the Trojans get back to work today to start preparations for the 2009 Emerald Bowl against Boston College. The previous game -- and three of the last five -- may be lost, but the season is not, and USC has one more shot to make it right.
Coaches, minus a handful who are on the road recruiting, will be in the office all day breaking down Saturday's loss and commencing film study of Boston College. Players, who get today and Tuesday off from classes before finals begin Wednesday, will be in strength and conditioning sessions this morning to officially dive into the last phase of the season.
Besides giving USC a chance to complete the season on a positive note, the Emerald Bowl will also afford the Trojans the extra three weeks of practice, meeting, workout and bonding time. It's during these days that the foundation is laid for present and future success, so every ounce of this preparation is lapped up and savored by players and coaches alike.
Game day -- and one final opportunity for redemption, righting the ship and that good feeling that follows a win -- is just 19 days away. Time to get ready.
Here are some basic facts about the 2009 Emerald Bowl featuring USC and Boston College:
USC will face Boston College in the 2009 Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at AT&T Park in San Francisco. [2007 photo courtesy of Getty Images]
- Who: USC (8-4) vs. Boston College (8-4)
- When: Saturday, Dec. 26 at 5 p.m.
- Where: AT&T Park, the home stadium of the San Francisco Giants
- National TV: ESPN
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Series: USC has played Boston College twice before, winning both matchups (23-17 in 1987 and 34-7 in 1988). The two programs are also slated to face off in 2013 in L.A. and 2014 in Massachusetts.
- Tickets: Available online or by calling (415) 947-BOWL
USC will face Boston College in the 2009 Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at AT&T Park in San Francisco. [2007 photo courtesy of Getty Images]
Emerald Bowl ticket applications will be e-mailed to USC season-ticket holders (including donors) today, with a return deadline of Friday.
If you are not a season-ticket holder, you can purchase individual game tickets, starting at $40, through the Emerald Bowl website or by calling (415) 947-BOWL.
USC will meet Boston College in the 2009 Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at 5 p.m. at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
USC will meet Boston College in the 2009 Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at 5 p.m. at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
Find out what the key figures are saying about USC's berth in the 2009 Emerald Bowl.
Coach Pete Carroll:
"There are a lot of things to look forward to with this game. We're playing a team with a strong tradition and it looks like it's a good matchup across the board. I know Frank Spaziani and he's done a nice job with that program. Congratulations to him, his staff and his players.
"Also, we get to stay in California, and that's good for our fans, as it will be easy for them to get to the game.
"Most of all, we get to play one more game this year. We're disappointed with the way we played the last half of this season, so the Emerald Bowl gives us a chance to finish the year on a positive note. We'll work hard to send our seniors out in the fashion they deserve. And it'll give our younger players some extra practice time that will pay off in the future."
Athletic director Mike Garrett:
"It will be fun for our team and fans to spend the Christmas holiday in San Francisco, Although this season didn't go quite as we hoped, the Emerald Bowl provides our young team with great competition against a very good opponent. It also affords our players, especially our seniors, with an opportunity to finish the year on a strong note."
Emerald Bowl executive director Gary Cavalli:
"We could not be happier with this matchup. In USC, we have one of the great brands in college football and a program that is almost always in the national championship hunt. In Boston College, we have one of the nation's premier academic institutions and an over-achieving team that overcame a lot of adversity this season."
Coach Pete Carroll:
"There are a lot of things to look forward to with this game. We're playing a team with a strong tradition and it looks like it's a good matchup across the board. I know Frank Spaziani and he's done a nice job with that program. Congratulations to him, his staff and his players.
"Also, we get to stay in California, and that's good for our fans, as it will be easy for them to get to the game.
"Most of all, we get to play one more game this year. We're disappointed with the way we played the last half of this season, so the Emerald Bowl gives us a chance to finish the year on a positive note. We'll work hard to send our seniors out in the fashion they deserve. And it'll give our younger players some extra practice time that will pay off in the future."
Athletic director Mike Garrett:
"It will be fun for our team and fans to spend the Christmas holiday in San Francisco, Although this season didn't go quite as we hoped, the Emerald Bowl provides our young team with great competition against a very good opponent. It also affords our players, especially our seniors, with an opportunity to finish the year on a strong note."
Emerald Bowl executive director Gary Cavalli:
"We could not be happier with this matchup. In USC, we have one of the great brands in college football and a program that is almost always in the national championship hunt. In Boston College, we have one of the nation's premier academic institutions and an over-achieving team that overcame a lot of adversity this season."
Boston College, the fourth place team in the ACC with a 5-3 conference record and 8-4 overall mark, will be making its second appearance in the Emerald Bowl and 11th consecutive bowl appearance dating back to 1999. BC is 8-1 in bowl games this decade.
The Eagles are led by quarterback Dave Shinskie, a 25-year-old freshman who just completed a seven-year minor league baseball career. Coach Frank Spaziani is in his first year as head man but 13th overall in the Eagles program.
Check out Boston College's results this season:
Sept. 5 • W 54-0 vs. Northeastern
Sept. 12 • W 34-7 vs. Kent State
Sept. 19 • L 25-7 at Clemson
Sept. 26 • W 27-24 vs. Wake Forest (OT)
Oct. 3 • W 28-21 vs. Florida State
Oct. 10 • L 48-14 at No. 5 Virginia Tech
Oct. 17 • W 52-20 vs. North Carolina State
Oct. 24 • L 20-16 at Notre Dame
Oct. 31 • W 31-10 vs. Central Michigan
Nov. 14 • W 14-10 at Virginia
Nov. 21 • L 31-13 at North Carolina
Nov. 28 • W 19-17 at Maryland
(Overall: 8-4; ACC: 5-3)
The Eagles are led by quarterback Dave Shinskie, a 25-year-old freshman who just completed a seven-year minor league baseball career. Coach Frank Spaziani is in his first year as head man but 13th overall in the Eagles program.
Check out Boston College's results this season:
Sept. 5 • W 54-0 vs. Northeastern
Sept. 12 • W 34-7 vs. Kent State
Sept. 19 • L 25-7 at Clemson
Sept. 26 • W 27-24 vs. Wake Forest (OT)
Oct. 3 • W 28-21 vs. Florida State
Oct. 10 • L 48-14 at No. 5 Virginia Tech
Oct. 17 • W 52-20 vs. North Carolina State
Oct. 24 • L 20-16 at Notre Dame
Oct. 31 • W 31-10 vs. Central Michigan
Nov. 14 • W 14-10 at Virginia
Nov. 21 • L 31-13 at North Carolina
Nov. 28 • W 19-17 at Maryland
(Overall: 8-4; ACC: 5-3)
USC will face Boston College in the Emerald Bowl on Dec. 26 at San Francisco's AT&T Park. The matchup, featuring a pair of 8-4 teams, will kick off at 5 p.m. and will be televised nationally on ESPN.
The game marks the Trojans' ninth consecutive bowl.
The game marks the Trojans' ninth consecutive bowl.
The USC men's water polo team defeated UCLA, 7-6, this afternoon in New Jersey to win its second consecutive national championship. Congrats to the Trojans!
Check out this special two-part photo album from Saturday's game, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Jon SooHoo:
Pre-game and Senior Salute
Pre-game and Senior Salute
Yet another heartbreaking stunner in a season full of them.With shocked and pained looks on their faces, the Trojans sat silenced in the locker room after their 21-17 loss to Arizona at the Coliseum on Saturday. It was a scene that symbolized the afternoon, previous month and most of an anguish-filled fall for USC.
"We didn't get what we wanted to get today," a subdued Coach Carroll told his players in the quieted locker room. "I'm obviously disappointed."
Arizona's game-winning, fourth-quarter drive traveled 80 yards in 10 plays, including three back-breaking third-down conversions, before culminating with a 36-yard touchdown pass. It was a series that epitomized what the Trojans have endured this season, including two quarterback injuries, Stafon Johnson's life-threatening accident and more losses than any USC team since 2001. And the year's valleys have only been magnified by the peaks the Trojans also climbed this season, including a thrilling win at Ohio State and victories over Notre Dame and UCLA.
The scoreboard wasn't the only place that showed the Trojans had lost. Their faces and words also told the story of a day and season so uncharacteristic of a program synonymous with near-perfect success throughout the decade.
"I don't know what's going on next," Carroll said in the locker room, referring to the team's bowl destination but also, unintentionally, speaking to the future of the Trojans. "We'll figure that out."
The Trojans head into their bowl game, as of now at an undetermined site, having lost three of their last five contests and four of their previous 10 matchups. It's a foreign experience for all of the players, but especially for the seniors who had witnessed nothing but Pac-10 championships until this season.
Carroll made sure to recognize and laud the outgoing players in the locker room after the loss, even pausing part of the way through, seemingly overcome with emotion.
"This does not take away from who you are and all the wonderful stuff you've accomplished," Carroll said in the locker room while singling out certain seniors for their contributions over their careers. "You've done unbelievable stuff to put us where we've gone."
The seniors' -- and all Trojans' -- mark on the 2009 season and USC legacy is far from over, though. They have one more game left, at a bowl in the coming weeks, to prove something. It won't be a top-tier bowl, but it's a chance to bounce back from tribulation, show who they are and leave a heritage on the program for years to come.
"Even with this disappointment, I'm not going to the pits, because I'm too proud of you guys," Carroll said. "We'll come back."
The post-game prayer, led by senior fullback Adam Goodman, couldn't have wrapped up the day, the previous five games and the regular season much better.
"We face many trials, Lord, but please grow us through them," Goodman prayed in the silent locker room as the players leaned on each other, heads down and arms on shoulders.
Hope exists, hope exists. There is no doubt about that, as the adversity the players are facing in the present will develop them into the champions of the future.
The prayer over, the bowl destination up in the air, Carroll closed out his talk and the regular season with one final plea.
"We must always lean on each other as one," Carroll said. "Always."
Check out some photos from USC's 21-17 defeat to Arizona on Saturday at the Coliseum (all photos by Ben Malcolmson):
The Trojans proceed down the peristyle steps after arriving at the Coliseum on Saturday morning.
Players wait in the tunnel just outside the locker room prior to warm-ups.
Kicker Jordan Congdon and holder Billy O'Malley go through pre-game warm-ups.
Matt Barkley makes a throw during warm-ups.
The defensive backs circle up and pray in the locker room before the game.
Offensive line coach Pat Ruel talks with his players in the showers before the game.
Stafon Johnson leads his teammates through some pre-game chants in the locker room.
Taylor Mays picks up Coach Carroll as the two hug at the top of the tunnel before Mays runs out for the senior salute.
Stafon Johnson runs down the tunnel for the senior salute.
Players huddle up and get pumped on the field during the game.
Coach Carroll shares adjustments with the defense during halftime.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin goes over adjustments with his players at halftime.
Coach Carroll shares final words with his players before going out for the second half.
Offensive line coach Pat Ruel chats with (from left to right) Butch Lewis, Charles Brown, Kristofer O'Dowd, Jeff Byers and Tyron Smith on the bench during the second half.
Coach Carroll calls his players together in the locker room after the loss.
The Trojans proceed down the peristyle steps after arriving at the Coliseum on Saturday morning.
Players wait in the tunnel just outside the locker room prior to warm-ups.
Kicker Jordan Congdon and holder Billy O'Malley go through pre-game warm-ups.
Matt Barkley makes a throw during warm-ups.
The defensive backs circle up and pray in the locker room before the game.
Offensive line coach Pat Ruel talks with his players in the showers before the game.
Stafon Johnson leads his teammates through some pre-game chants in the locker room.
Taylor Mays picks up Coach Carroll as the two hug at the top of the tunnel before Mays runs out for the senior salute.
Stafon Johnson runs down the tunnel for the senior salute.
Players huddle up and get pumped on the field during the game.
Coach Carroll shares adjustments with the defense during halftime.
Defensive line coach Jethro Franklin goes over adjustments with his players at halftime.
Coach Carroll shares final words with his players before going out for the second half.
Offensive line coach Pat Ruel chats with (from left to right) Butch Lewis, Charles Brown, Kristofer O'Dowd, Jeff Byers and Tyron Smith on the bench during the second half.
Coach Carroll calls his players together in the locker room after the loss.
The Trojans lost, 21-17, in brutal fashion to Arizona on Saturday at the Coliseum, capping off an 8-4 regular season. Here's the AP story and full stats from the game.
USC's bowl destination, most likely either the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco or the Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego, will be announced Sunday.
USC's bowl destination, most likely either the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco or the Poinsettia Bowl in San Diego, will be announced Sunday.
It's time.
The finale to an eventful regular season is here, as the Trojans will depart their downtown hotel in a few minutes and head to the Coliseum for this afternoon's game against Arizona. An escort from the California Highway Patrol will essentially shut down the 110 and pave the way for an expedient trip from downtown to USC's venerable home stadium. Kickoff is set for 12:36 p.m., and the matchup will be televised nationally on ABC.
We'll have a full report following the game, but in the meantime, follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for occasional updates. Here's a look at the team's schedule for the remainder of the day:
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
The finale to an eventful regular season is here, as the Trojans will depart their downtown hotel in a few minutes and head to the Coliseum for this afternoon's game against Arizona. An escort from the California Highway Patrol will essentially shut down the 110 and pave the way for an expedient trip from downtown to USC's venerable home stadium. Kickoff is set for 12:36 p.m., and the matchup will be televised nationally on ABC.
We'll have a full report following the game, but in the meantime, follow USCRipsIt on Twitter for occasional updates. Here's a look at the team's schedule for the remainder of the day:
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow today's USC-Arizona game:
- Kickoff: 12:36 p.m.
- National TV: ABC (Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
Eight minutes before kickoff today, 22 players will be honored during the "senior salute," a tradition that will see each player run through the Heritage Tunnel after being called over the PA system. Here's a list of the seniors set to be recognized (in alphabetical order; the order they will be called is kept secret until the salute):
- OL Charles Brown
- LB Luthur Brown
- OL Jeff Byers
- WR Preston Cavignac
- K Jordan Congdon
- LB Dan Deckas
- DB Rob Erickson
- LB Nick Garratt
- FB Adam Goodman
- WR Garrett Green
- S Will Harris
- DB Justin Hart
- OL Nick Howell
- TB Stafon Johnson
- S Taylor Mays
- TE Anthony McCoy
- OL Garrett Nolan
- P Billy O'Malley
- OL Alex Parsons
- DB Josh Pinkard
- DL Averell Spicer
- CB Kevin Thomas
Kickoff is now that much closer.
The Trojans just completed their morning meetings, putting them just a brief clap session away from departing for the Coliseum for today's 12:30 p.m. matchup against Arizona. A wild pump-up session, walk-thrus for the offense and defense and the team's pre-game meal have been conducted, and the players now have about an hour to rest and relax before the clap session at 10:10.
Coach Carroll reviews his notes with the assistant coaches during this morning's staff meeting.
Players circle around linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. (middle, black shirt) during the team's chaotic pump-up session in a hotel ballroom this morning.
The offense conducts a walk-thru this morning in a hotel ballroom.
The Trojans just completed their morning meetings, putting them just a brief clap session away from departing for the Coliseum for today's 12:30 p.m. matchup against Arizona. A wild pump-up session, walk-thrus for the offense and defense and the team's pre-game meal have been conducted, and the players now have about an hour to rest and relax before the clap session at 10:10.
Coach Carroll reviews his notes with the assistant coaches during this morning's staff meeting.
Players circle around linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. (middle, black shirt) during the team's chaotic pump-up session in a hotel ballroom this morning.
The offense conducts a walk-thru this morning in a hotel ballroom.
The season finale is special to all, but it's an especially big day for two Trojans.
Defensive lineman Jurrell Casey is celebrating his 20th birthday today, while offensive line coach Pat Ruel, the eldest member of the USC coaching staff, turns 59 today.
Defensive lineman Jurrell Casey is celebrating his 20th birthday today, while offensive line coach Pat Ruel, the eldest member of the USC coaching staff, turns 59 today.
Be sure to stop by the USCRipsIt booth at Heritage Hall today to pick up a free mini Trojan football or to say hi to the USCRipsIt street team. A bin to donate toys for A Better LA's toy drive will also be there.
The festivities will get started at 10 a.m.
The festivities will get started at 10 a.m.
Wake-up calls will be ringing soon in the Trojans' hotel rooms, as the final game day of the regular season is here.
Meetings, which will feature a special emphasis on rustling awake from a sleepy state, begin at 8:15 a.m., and the pre-game meal will be served at 8:45. A little resting and relaxing is on the docket after that, and the team will depart its downtown hotel at 10:20 a.m.
Meetings, which will feature a special emphasis on rustling awake from a sleepy state, begin at 8:15 a.m., and the pre-game meal will be served at 8:45. A little resting and relaxing is on the docket after that, and the team will depart its downtown hotel at 10:20 a.m.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Must-see TV: Geeter unplugged
- Driving for toys: A Better LA toy drive at the Coliseum
- Adrenaline's flowing: Friday team meeting
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Friday's walk-thru pictures
- Captain crunch: Saturday's captains
- Friday night highlights: Video of top plays
The Day Before has come to a close.
After a day and night full of final pre-game preparations, the Trojans have reached bed check time. Wake-up calls will arrive in nine hours, at 7:30 a.m. Saturday. Here's a look at USC's schedule for game day:
7:30 a.m. • Wake-up call
8:15 a.m. • Meetings begin
8:45 a.m. • Pre-game meal
10:20 a.m. • Depart downtown hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
After a day and night full of final pre-game preparations, the Trojans have reached bed check time. Wake-up calls will arrive in nine hours, at 7:30 a.m. Saturday. Here's a look at USC's schedule for game day:
7:30 a.m. • Wake-up call
8:15 a.m. • Meetings begin
8:45 a.m. • Pre-game meal
10:20 a.m. • Depart downtown hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
Watch the same highlight video that Trojans saw during tonight's team meeting, containing top plays from the UCLA game last weekend. It's produced by the USC video production department.
With Coach Carroll standing amidst the players, the USC special teamers, coordinated by Brian Schneider, watch film of Arizona's units during tonight's meetings in the second-floor ballroom of a downtown hotel. The Friday night routine has just wrapped up, putting the Trojans just a night's sleep away from game day.
The eve-of-game meetings are minutes away from commencing in second-floor hotel ballrooms, with the special teams film session up first. The slate of meetings will flow very concisely and quickly, and the night culminates with Coach Carroll's typically rousing pre-game speech around 8:30.
Then it's time for a buffet snack -- which could be confused for an all-out second dinner -- and optional Protestant chapel and Catholic mass services in the hotel. Bed check will be at 10:30 p.m.
Then it's time for a buffet snack -- which could be confused for an all-out second dinner -- and optional Protestant chapel and Catholic mass services in the hotel. Bed check will be at 10:30 p.m.
Alongside the four elected team captains (Jeff Byers, Damian Williams, Taylor Mays and Josh Pinkard) will be several other players chosen by coaches to represent the Trojans as honorary captains for the Arizona game. They are:
- Linebacker Ross Cumming will represent the special teams
- The scout-team offensive line -- Kevin Graf, Khaled Holmes, Abe Markowitz, John Martinez, Garrett Nolan, Michael Reardon -- will represent the service teams
- As is tradition, all seniors will also be honorary captains on Senior Day
In a few minutes, the Trojans will depart campus and head to their downtown hotel, where they'll begin their eve-of-game routine with pizza dinners before meetings start at 7:30 p.m. Take a look at the team's schedule for the rest of this Friday night:
7:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting
8 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
8:15 p.m. • Position group meetings
8:30 p.m. • Team meeting
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in the hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
7:30 p.m. • Special teams meeting
8 p.m. • Offense/defense meetings
8:15 p.m. • Position group meetings
8:30 p.m. • Team meeting
8:45 p.m. • Snack
9 p.m. • Optional chapel and mass services in the hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
Defensive coordinator Rocky Seto (middle, gray sweatshirt) speaks to the players, band members, Song Girls and fans during tonight's jock rally at Heritage Hall.
Check out some images from USC's Friday afternoon walk-thru on Howard Jones Field, where the Trojans reviewed all special teams situations, 15 key offensive and defensive plays and a two-minute drill for the offense:
Tailback Allen Bradford lines up in the backfield during the offense's portion of the walk-thru.
Safety Taylor Mays waits for the snap during the walk-thru.
Coach Carroll addresses his team in a huddle after the Friday afternoon walk-thru.
Tailback Allen Bradford lines up in the backfield during the offense's portion of the walk-thru.
Safety Taylor Mays waits for the snap during the walk-thru.
Coach Carroll addresses his team in a huddle after the Friday afternoon walk-thru.
The Trojans' no-pads Friday walk-thru is getting started now on Howard Jones Field, and then they'll head directly to the jock rally at Heritage Hall. We'll return afterward with a report.
Jake Olson, the 12-year-old Trojan fan featured on ESPN's "College GameDay" and "SportsCenter" shows this week, is scheduled to take part in the pre-game coin toss and conduct the Trojan Marching Band at the start of the fourth quarter on Saturday. Here's the "GameDay" feature, in case you haven't seen it yet:
The Trojans' bowl destination will be announced Sunday, and the determination will then trigger the scheduling for the team for the coming month.
Though the rest of December's agenda is completely up in the air at this point, the team at least has some idea of what the coming week will entail. Players are schedule to be in for strength and conditioning workouts on Monday and Tuesday before getting Wednesday through Friday off for finals. Coaches will hit the road to recruit all next week, and the team is slated to begin bowl practices either next Friday or Saturday.
We'll have the latest schedule information immediately after USC's bowl destination is determined.
Though the rest of December's agenda is completely up in the air at this point, the team at least has some idea of what the coming week will entail. Players are schedule to be in for strength and conditioning workouts on Monday and Tuesday before getting Wednesday through Friday off for finals. Coaches will hit the road to recruit all next week, and the team is slated to begin bowl practices either next Friday or Saturday.
We'll have the latest schedule information immediately after USC's bowl destination is determined.
Seriousness has set in at Heritage Hall, as the Trojans are deep into their final phase of preparation for Saturday's game against Arizona, set to kick off at 12:36 p.m.
"Let's get our minds right," assistant head coach for the offense Jeremy Bates solemnly told his players this afternoon. "We're playing in less than 24 hours."
"Let's get our minds right," assistant head coach for the offense Jeremy Bates solemnly told his players this afternoon. "We're playing in less than 24 hours."
Coach Carroll stands on a chair and raises his arms with his players during this afternoon's typically chaotic team meeting in Heritage Auditorium. The Trojans use that time to unleash their excitement for the game before transitioning into a more serious mode of preparation. "It's time to flip the switch, everybody lock in," running backs coach Todd McNair told the players. "It's about collective focus -- everyone's minds on what we're doing."
The final stage of the Trojans' game week preparation process is beginning now.
Players and coaches are streaming into Heritage Auditorium now to commence their afternoon block of meetings, starting with an insane pump-up session that'll see the players dance, chant, jump and sing to express their excitement for tomorrow's game. That'll lead into a special teams film session before team, offense/defense and position group meetings, with a light, no-pads walk-thru set for 4:15 p.m.
Players and coaches are streaming into Heritage Auditorium now to commence their afternoon block of meetings, starting with an insane pump-up session that'll see the players dance, chant, jump and sing to express their excitement for tomorrow's game. That'll lead into a special teams film session before team, offense/defense and position group meetings, with a light, no-pads walk-thru set for 4:15 p.m.
The USC women's volleyball opens its 19th consecutive NCAA tournament appearance with a match against Oklahoma tonight at 7 p.m. at the Galen Center. Tickets are $10 and are available at the arena box office.
The winner of that match will play the winner of the Hawaii-New Mexico contest on Saturday at 7 p.m.
The winner of that match will play the winner of the Hawaii-New Mexico contest on Saturday at 7 p.m.
Check out this positive story on the renaissance of USC alum Chilo Rachal, now an offensive lineman for the San Francisco 49ers, from today's San Jose Mercury News.
It should be a picture-perfect SoCal afternoon on game day, but you might want to pack a jacket if you're coming to the Coliseum on Saturday.
Sunny skies and a high of 63 are forecasted for tomorrow afternoon, but with the sun dropping below the Coliseum stands sometime during the second half, it could get chilly as the game winds down.
Sunny skies and a high of 63 are forecasted for tomorrow afternoon, but with the sun dropping below the Coliseum stands sometime during the second half, it could get chilly as the game winds down.
Coach Carroll is calling on you to help the cause. Will you step up and answer the appeal?
Carroll and A Better LA are hoping to collect 10,000 toys for the 2009 A Better LA Toy Drive this December. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, fans can drop off unwrapped toys at the ESPN Radio broadcast booth on the peristyle end of the Coliseum, as well as at the USCRipsIt booth at Heritage Hall starting at 10 a.m. on game day. Additionally, you can drop off toys at the ESPN Zone and Rock'N Fish at L.A. Live from now until Dec. 19. All gifts will be distributed to underprivileged children in South Los Angeles at various holiday events put on by Carroll's inner-city foundation.
Also, if you can't make it to the game or L.A. Live, you can donate $10 to the toy drive by texting TOY to 85944 and then replying YES to confirm.
Carroll and A Better LA are hoping to collect 10,000 toys for the 2009 A Better LA Toy Drive this December. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, fans can drop off unwrapped toys at the ESPN Radio broadcast booth on the peristyle end of the Coliseum, as well as at the USCRipsIt booth at Heritage Hall starting at 10 a.m. on game day. Additionally, you can drop off toys at the ESPN Zone and Rock'N Fish at L.A. Live from now until Dec. 19. All gifts will be distributed to underprivileged children in South Los Angeles at various holiday events put on by Carroll's inner-city foundation.
Also, if you can't make it to the game or L.A. Live, you can donate $10 to the toy drive by texting TOY to 85944 and then replying YES to confirm.
Episode 6 of "Project Trojan: The Making of the 2009 USC Football Team" has been posted. The episode discusses how the Trojans bounced back after the Stanford loss, a featurette on the equipment staff, the preparation for the UCLA game and an in-depth look at the final touchdown pass and ensuing drama at the end of the win over the Bruins.
Get a free three-minute preview of it here, and then see the episode in its entirety here. The full episode is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
Get a free three-minute preview of it here, and then see the episode in its entirety here. The full episode is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
Check out this superb feature on sixth-year senior Jeff Byers, from USCFootball.com.
Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow Saturday's USC-Arizona game:
- Kickoff: 12:36 p.m.
- National TV: ABC (Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
RipsIt reader John Pings sent in this great question: "How do you maintain the intensity after a rivalry game -- what techniques are used to make this week unique in its own right? How do you 'get up' when it's a non-BCS bowl game at stake?"
To give his team a battle cry this week, Coach Carroll has made this game all about the seniors, who will be playing one final time at the Coliseum on Saturday. Several times per day, Carroll has referenced the seniors and how everyone should be playing to honor them, "since they deserve it and you'll want the same when you're on your way out," he's said. The week's themes have also centered on finishing strong and putting a memorable, positive touch on the end of this season.
"This game is a celebration for the seniors," Carroll said. "And we've got to finish this thing right."
To give his team a battle cry this week, Coach Carroll has made this game all about the seniors, who will be playing one final time at the Coliseum on Saturday. Several times per day, Carroll has referenced the seniors and how everyone should be playing to honor them, "since they deserve it and you'll want the same when you're on your way out," he's said. The week's themes have also centered on finishing strong and putting a memorable, positive touch on the end of this season.
"This game is a celebration for the seniors," Carroll said. "And we've got to finish this thing right."
Including the two Trojans who played Thursday night (Mark Sanchez for the New York Jets and Cary Harris for the Buffalo Bills), 37 USC alumni will see NFL action during Week 13 this weekend. Here's a full look at the Trojans set to suit up during the pro schedule on Sunday and Monday:
St. Louis Rams (1-10) vs. Chicago Bears (4-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Rams: Defensive lineman LaJuan Ramsey
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-10) vs. Carolina Panthers (4-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Buccaneers: Defensive lineman Kyle Moore
Panthers: Wideout Dwayne Jarrett, offensive lineman Ryan Kalil
Houston Texans (5-6) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Texans: Linebacker Brian Cushing, defensive lineman Shaun Cody
Denver Broncos (7-4) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (3-8)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Chiefs: Quarterback Matt Cassel
Tennessee Titans (5-6) vs. Indianapolis Colts (11-0)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Titans: Tailback LenDale White
Colts: Defensive lineman Fili Moala
Philadelphia Eagles (7-4) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Eagles: Offensive lineman Winston Justice, defensive lineman Mike Patterson
Falcons: Offensive lineman Sam Baker
New Orleans Saints (11-0) vs. Washington Redskins (3-8)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Saints: Tailback Reggie Bush, defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis
Redskins: Tight End Fred Davis
Oakland Raiders (3-8) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Raiders: Tailback Justin Fargas
Steelers: Safety Troy Polamalu
Detroit Lions (2-9) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Bengals: Quarterback Carson Palmer, defensive end Frostee Rucker, linebacker Keith Rivers, linebacker Rey Maualuga
New England Patriots (7-4) vs. Miami Dolphins (5-6)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Patriots: Linebacker Junior Seau
Dolphins: Wideout Patrick Turner
San Diego Chargers (8-3) vs. Cleveland Browns (1-10)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (CBS)
Chargers: Safety Kevin Ellison
Browns: Linebacker Kaluka Maiava
Dallas Cowboys (8-3) vs. New York Giants (6-5)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (FOX)
Cowboys: Kicker David Buehler
Giants: Wideout Steve Smith, cornerback Terrell Thomas
San Francisco 49ers (5-6) vs. Seattle Seahawks (4-7)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (FOX)
49ers: Offensive lineman Chilo Rachal
Seahawks: Linebacker Lofa Tatupu, defensive lineman Lawrence Jackson
Minnesota Vikings (10-1) vs. Arizona Cardinals (7-4)
Sunday at 5:20 p.m. (NBC)
Cardinals: Quarterback Matt Leinart, tight end Dominique Byrd, offensive lineman Deuce Lutui
Baltimore Vikings (6-5) vs. Green Bay Packers (7-4)
Monday at 5:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Packers: Linebacker Clay Matthews
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
St. Louis Rams (1-10) vs. Chicago Bears (4-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Rams: Defensive lineman LaJuan Ramsey
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1-10) vs. Carolina Panthers (4-7)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Buccaneers: Defensive lineman Kyle Moore
Panthers: Wideout Dwayne Jarrett, offensive lineman Ryan Kalil
Houston Texans (5-6) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Texans: Linebacker Brian Cushing, defensive lineman Shaun Cody
Denver Broncos (7-4) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (3-8)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Chiefs: Quarterback Matt Cassel
Tennessee Titans (5-6) vs. Indianapolis Colts (11-0)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Titans: Tailback LenDale White
Colts: Defensive lineman Fili Moala
Philadelphia Eagles (7-4) vs. Atlanta Falcons (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Eagles: Offensive lineman Winston Justice, defensive lineman Mike Patterson
Falcons: Offensive lineman Sam Baker
New Orleans Saints (11-0) vs. Washington Redskins (3-8)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Saints: Tailback Reggie Bush, defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis
Redskins: Tight End Fred Davis
Oakland Raiders (3-8) vs. Pittsburgh Steelers (6-5)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Raiders: Tailback Justin Fargas
Steelers: Safety Troy Polamalu
Detroit Lions (2-9) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (8-3)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (FOX)
Bengals: Quarterback Carson Palmer, defensive end Frostee Rucker, linebacker Keith Rivers, linebacker Rey Maualuga
New England Patriots (7-4) vs. Miami Dolphins (5-6)
Sunday at 10 a.m. (CBS)
Patriots: Linebacker Junior Seau
Dolphins: Wideout Patrick Turner
San Diego Chargers (8-3) vs. Cleveland Browns (1-10)
Sunday at 1:05 p.m. (CBS)
Chargers: Safety Kevin Ellison
Browns: Linebacker Kaluka Maiava
Dallas Cowboys (8-3) vs. New York Giants (6-5)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (FOX)
Cowboys: Kicker David Buehler
Giants: Wideout Steve Smith, cornerback Terrell Thomas
San Francisco 49ers (5-6) vs. Seattle Seahawks (4-7)
Sunday at 1:15 p.m. (FOX)
49ers: Offensive lineman Chilo Rachal
Seahawks: Linebacker Lofa Tatupu, defensive lineman Lawrence Jackson
Minnesota Vikings (10-1) vs. Arizona Cardinals (7-4)
Sunday at 5:20 p.m. (NBC)
Cardinals: Quarterback Matt Leinart, tight end Dominique Byrd, offensive lineman Deuce Lutui
Baltimore Vikings (6-5) vs. Green Bay Packers (7-4)
Monday at 5:30 p.m. (ESPN)
Packers: Linebacker Clay Matthews
- By Ricky Cambier, USCRipsIt student assistant
The USCRipsIt street team will be set up outside of Heritage Hall starting at 10 a.m. on Saturday, so be sure to stop by to pick up a mini football or sticker, or to just say hi to the street teamers.
Find out what Taylor Mays, Charles Brown, Josh Pinkard and Jeff Byers are thinking as they head into Senior Day on Saturday in this free video, courtesy of USCTrojans.com.
You've got to watch the newest "Unplugged" video feature from charismatic TV personality Geeter McGee, containing some very entertaining and comedic interviews with several players and Coach Carroll.
Per the custom prior to home games, coaches are off this morning, giving them time to rest and spend time with their families. Since the game plans are done and the pre-game prep work is all but finished, the coaches can take a breather on Friday mornings before diving into the final stage of game mode, a phase that will go essentially nonstop from the staff meeting at 12:30 p.m. today through Saturday afternoon's game.
Coaches will be in around noon, while players are off until meetings get started at 2:30 p.m.
Coaches will be in around noon, while players are off until meetings get started at 2:30 p.m.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Tossing and turning: The pre-game coin flip
- Ticket watch: 2,500 remain for Saturday
- Senior day: 22 seniors to be honored
- The moment: Carroll recounts Leinart to Jarrett at Notre Dame
- Weekend itinerary: Agenda for the game
- Why Carroll gives back: Explaining his heart for the city
- No bowl talk here: "Don't know and don't care"
- Controlling the senior moments: Fighting back emotions
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Thursday's practice report
- Thursday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Thursday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Thoughts from Thursday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- Achieving exactly what they wanted to accomplish, the Trojans conducted a very spirited, precise practice on a cool Thursday evening to wrap up the heavy-duty portion of Arizona game week. The first-team offense headlined the day by going a perfect 4-for-4 in the final team period, producing four consecutive successful plays to close out the day. "That was a well-done Thursday," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "Coaches on both sides were loving what they saw today."
- Tailback Joe McKnight (thigh bruise) practiced substantially and has been declared set to play Saturday, Carroll said. "He felt great about getting through practice," Carroll said. "He's ready to go."
- The Trojans head into their season finale perhaps the healthiest they've been all year, with almost every regular starter at or near full strength. "We're in really good shape," Carroll said. "We're very thankful these guys are coming back."
- Defensive end Malik Jackson had an athletic interception on the final play of the practice.
- Achieving exactly what they wanted to accomplish, the Trojans conducted a very spirited, precise practice on a cool Thursday evening to wrap up the heavy-duty portion of Arizona game week. The first-team offense headlined the day by going a perfect 4-for-4 in the final team period, producing four consecutive successful plays to close out the day. "That was a well-done Thursday," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle. "Coaches on both sides were loving what they saw today."
- Tailback Joe McKnight (thigh bruise) practiced substantially and has been declared set to play Saturday, Carroll said. "He felt great about getting through practice," Carroll said. "He's ready to go."
- The Trojans head into their season finale perhaps the healthiest they've been all year, with almost every regular starter at or near full strength. "We're in really good shape," Carroll said. "We're very thankful these guys are coming back."
- Defensive end Malik Jackson had an athletic interception on the final play of the practice.
Thursday practices are all about precision and perfection, as the game plan comes into clear focus and the Trojans close out the physical portion of game week.
This afternoon's practice -- the last No Repeat Thursday workout of the regular season -- is no different.
"This week has been about doing things right," Coach Carroll said during the team meeting this afternoon. "Today is huge. We've got to be as clean and sharp as we want to be on Saturday."
"Get this game ready to go by how you work today."
We'll return with a report after the half-pads practice.
This afternoon's practice -- the last No Repeat Thursday workout of the regular season -- is no different.
"This week has been about doing things right," Coach Carroll said during the team meeting this afternoon. "Today is huge. We've got to be as clean and sharp as we want to be on Saturday."
"Get this game ready to go by how you work today."
We'll return with a report after the half-pads practice.
Coach Carroll has become a psychologist.
Saturday's game will mark the final time USC's seniors will play in the Coliseum, and Carroll is playing emotional therapist for his players this week as they prepare for their grand finale.
To make his point, he has referred back to Matt Leinart, who was famously so shaken with emotion that he couldn't play well during the opening part of the 2005 Senior Day, when USC faced UCLA in the record-setting quarterback's final game at the Coliseum. Leinart went 0-for-5 on the Trojans' opening drive -- he was so jittery that coaches elected to call 12 runs in the game's first 17 plays -- before finding his calm and getting into a groove en route to USC's 66-19 win.
"He couldn't function, he was such a mess," Carroll told his team this afternoon, using Leinart as the example of how not to start out on Senior Day. "You have to control your emotions and get right so you can have the day you deserve."
Matt Leinart conducts the band at the end of his final game at the Coliseum, a 66-19 win over UCLA in December 2005. Leinart was so overcome with emotion that he couldn't perform as well as he had during his record-breaking career, and Coach Carroll is using that as an example for his players this week in anticipation of Saturday's Senior Day. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
Saturday's game will mark the final time USC's seniors will play in the Coliseum, and Carroll is playing emotional therapist for his players this week as they prepare for their grand finale.
To make his point, he has referred back to Matt Leinart, who was famously so shaken with emotion that he couldn't play well during the opening part of the 2005 Senior Day, when USC faced UCLA in the record-setting quarterback's final game at the Coliseum. Leinart went 0-for-5 on the Trojans' opening drive -- he was so jittery that coaches elected to call 12 runs in the game's first 17 plays -- before finding his calm and getting into a groove en route to USC's 66-19 win.
"He couldn't function, he was such a mess," Carroll told his team this afternoon, using Leinart as the example of how not to start out on Senior Day. "You have to control your emotions and get right so you can have the day you deserve."
Matt Leinart conducts the band at the end of his final game at the Coliseum, a 66-19 win over UCLA in December 2005. Leinart was so overcome with emotion that he couldn't perform as well as he had during his record-breaking career, and Coach Carroll is using that as an example for his players this week in anticipation of Saturday's Senior Day. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]
The Trojans' postseason destination is still massively undecided and depends heavily on tonight's Oregon-Oregon State game and Saturday's USC-Arizona matchup, but Coach Carroll is making sure the bowl talk doesn't creep into Heritage Hall this week.
"I don't really know what's going on right now, and I don't really care," Carroll candidly said during this afternoon's team meeting, referring to the Trojans' bowl options. "All we want is to capture this last game and get this win."
"I don't really know what's going on right now, and I don't really care," Carroll candidly said during this afternoon's team meeting, referring to the Trojans' bowl options. "All we want is to capture this last game and get this win."
Trojan special teamers (from left to right) Cooper Stephenson, Rhett Ellison and Billy O'Malley sit in on the kickoff return unit film session during the special teams portion of this afternoon's meetings. Team, offense/defense and position group meetings ensue before a half-pads practice at 4:30 p.m.
Linebacker Brian Cushing has been named NFL defensive rookie of the month for November.
The below feature on 12-year-old USC fan Jake Olson, which was originally shown during ESPN's "College GameDay" on Saturday, will re-air on SportsCenter this afternoon between 3 and 4 p.m.:
Here's the third and final clip we'll post from the Roy Firestone Award ceremony honoring Coach Carroll, this one giving Carroll a heartfelt chance to explain why he gives back to inner-city L.A.:
Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow Saturday's USC-Arizona game:
- Kickoff: 12:36 p.m.
- National TV: ABC (Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
Giving back couldn't be easier this holiday season. Thanks to A Better LA and Causecast, you can text "TOY" to 85944 to donate $10 to the foundation's inner-city toy drive.
You can also drop off unwrapped toys at the Coliseum on Saturday or at two locations at L.A. Live until Dec. 19.
You can also drop off unwrapped toys at the Coliseum on Saturday or at two locations at L.A. Live until Dec. 19.
For the final time during the regular season, the Trojans will churn through their regular routine on Friday and Saturday. Check out the team's schedule for the weekend ahead:
Friday
2:30 p.m. • Meetings begin
4:15 p.m. • Practice
5 p.m. • Jock rally
6 p.m. • Depart campus for downtown hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin at downtown hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
Saturday
7:30 a.m. • Wake-up call
8:15 a.m. • Meetings begin
8:45 a.m. • Pre-game meal
10:20 a.m. • Depart downtown hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
Friday
2:30 p.m. • Meetings begin
4:15 p.m. • Practice
5 p.m. • Jock rally
6 p.m. • Depart campus for downtown hotel
7:30 p.m. • Eve-of-game meetings begin at downtown hotel
10:30 p.m. • Bed check
Saturday
7:30 a.m. • Wake-up call
8:15 a.m. • Meetings begin
8:45 a.m. • Pre-game meal
10:20 a.m. • Depart downtown hotel
10:30 a.m. • Arrive at the Coliseum, commence Trojan Walk
11:23 a.m. • Warm-ups begin
11:50 a.m. • Stretching begins
12:12 p.m. • USC returns to locker room
12:28 p.m. • Senior salute
12:32 p.m. • Trojans take the field
12:36 p.m. • Kickoff
The world-renowned band War will be honored by the Trojan Marching Band with a special halftime tribute during Saturday's game at the Coliseum. War will perform a medley of some of their greatest hits with the USC band, and the performance will be co-conducted by famous comedian George Lopez and 39-year band director Arthur C. Bartner.
Malcolm Smith had one of the all-time great games by a USC linebacker in Saturday's 28-7 win over UCLA, as he was named national defensive player of the week and his 15 tackles were the most since Troy Polamalu in 2001.
Find out more about Smith in the latest "Playmakers" video feature, produced by Mark Haas of USCTrojans.com. The video is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
Find out more about Smith in the latest "Playmakers" video feature, produced by Mark Haas of USCTrojans.com. The video is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
Hear Coach Carroll buoyantly describe the epic 4th-and-9 play from the 2005 Notre Dame game like never before in this excerpt video from the Roy Firestone Award ceremony that Carroll was honored at two weeks ago. You seriously do not want to miss this:
USC bowl game ticket applications will be e-mailed to USC season-ticket holders, including donors, on Sunday, with a return deadline of next Friday (Dec. 11).
USC's bowl placement will be announced by Sunday.
USC's bowl placement will be announced by Sunday.
Eight minutes before kickoff on Saturday, the Trojans will pay tribute to their seniors with the time-honored "senior salute," during which 22 players will be recognized for their contributions to the program during the last four, five or six seasons. Here's a list of the players set to be honored (in alphabetical order; the order they will be called is kept secret until the salute):
- OL Charles Brown
- LB Luthur Brown
- OL Jeff Byers
- WR Preston Cavignac
- K Jordan Congdon
- LB Dan Deckas
- DB Rob Erickson
- LB Nick Garratt
- FB Adam Goodman
- WR Garrett Green
- S Will Harris
- DB Justin Hart
- OL Nick Howell
- TB Stafon Johnson
- S Taylor Mays
- TE Anthony McCoy
- OL Garrett Nolan
- P Billy O'Malley
- OL Alex Parsons
- DB Josh Pinkard
- DL Averell Spicer
- CB Kevin Thomas
About 2,500 tickets remain for Saturday's game against Arizona, so purchase yours here for $50 each.
While all eyes on Saturday will be on what happens after the first kickoff, you might want to check out what happens just before the ball is teed up and drilled downfield to start the game.
The pre-game coin toss is the game within the game -- or, to be more precise, the game before the game -- as the first move in a 60-minute chess match is made.
Here's the weekly scene: Jeff Byers, Damian Williams, Taylor Mays and Josh Pinkard, USC's four captains, make their way to midfield to meet the opponent's captains and the head referee. The visiting team calls heads or tails, the official flips the coin and the winner of the toss then elects to make a decision at that point (which effectively equates to receiving the opening kick) or defer until the second half (which essentially means kicking off to start the game).
So far this season, the Trojans are 7-4 on coin flips, but only 3-3 when they're on the road and make the call on the toss. USC had been undefeated in home coin tosses until UCLA won Saturday's pre-game toss and elected to defer. On all seven coin-toss wins, the Trojans have kicked off to start the game, while on all four coin-toss losses, the opposing teams have chosen to defer, meaning USC received the opening kickoff. In games this season, the Trojans are 6-1 when winning the pre-game coin toss and 2-2 when losing it (see chart at right).
Williams has been the de facto spokesman during coin tosses "because he's the most articulate and smartest," Byers said with a hint of sarcasm. Williams said he always calls tails out of habit.
One hiccup came in the Washington game, when Williams gave up his calling duties to Mays, who was injured and making his homecoming for that matchup. The Trojans lost the toss and eventually the game.
"Maybe I shouldn't have let Taylor call that one," Williams said with a smile.
The Trojan captains are instructed by Coach Carroll that when they win the toss, they always want to defer, meaning they'll kick off to start the game and receive to begin the third quarter. When they lose the coin toss, they then get to pick which direction they'll go to start the game, and Carroll tells them which way to defend based on what kickers say is best during pre-game warm-ups.
Carroll likes to win the toss, defer and kick off to start the game so his defense can hopefully get a stop and give the offense the ball near midfield -- "or at least that's the idea," he said -- while also giving his team possession to start the second half.
Damian Williams, Josh Pinkard, Jeff Byers and Taylor Mays, USC's four captains, meet at midfield for the coin toss prior to the Notre Dame game.
The pre-game coin toss is the game within the game -- or, to be more precise, the game before the game -- as the first move in a 60-minute chess match is made.
Here's the weekly scene: Jeff Byers, Damian Williams, Taylor Mays and Josh Pinkard, USC's four captains, make their way to midfield to meet the opponent's captains and the head referee. The visiting team calls heads or tails, the official flips the coin and the winner of the toss then elects to make a decision at that point (which effectively equates to receiving the opening kick) or defer until the second half (which essentially means kicking off to start the game).
So far this season, the Trojans are 7-4 on coin flips, but only 3-3 when they're on the road and make the call on the toss. USC had been undefeated in home coin tosses until UCLA won Saturday's pre-game toss and elected to defer. On all seven coin-toss wins, the Trojans have kicked off to start the game, while on all four coin-toss losses, the opposing teams have chosen to defer, meaning USC received the opening kickoff. In games this season, the Trojans are 6-1 when winning the pre-game coin toss and 2-2 when losing it (see chart at right).Williams has been the de facto spokesman during coin tosses "because he's the most articulate and smartest," Byers said with a hint of sarcasm. Williams said he always calls tails out of habit.
One hiccup came in the Washington game, when Williams gave up his calling duties to Mays, who was injured and making his homecoming for that matchup. The Trojans lost the toss and eventually the game.
"Maybe I shouldn't have let Taylor call that one," Williams said with a smile.
The Trojan captains are instructed by Coach Carroll that when they win the toss, they always want to defer, meaning they'll kick off to start the game and receive to begin the third quarter. When they lose the coin toss, they then get to pick which direction they'll go to start the game, and Carroll tells them which way to defend based on what kickers say is best during pre-game warm-ups.
Carroll likes to win the toss, defer and kick off to start the game so his defense can hopefully get a stop and give the offense the ball near midfield -- "or at least that's the idea," he said -- while also giving his team possession to start the second half.
Damian Williams, Josh Pinkard, Jeff Byers and Taylor Mays, USC's four captains, meet at midfield for the coin toss prior to the Notre Dame game.
Don't miss this inspiring video tribute that was aired before Coach Carroll won the Roy Firestone Award for community service two weeks ago:
Check out this excellent feature on senior offensive tackle Charles Brown, from today's O.C. Register.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Time to recruit: Weekly meeting
- Film man: Byers hard at work
- History-shaping correspondence: USC's first team in 1888
- Toy story: A Better LA toy drive
- Paint thinner: Coliseum field in flux
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Wednesday's practice report
- Wednesday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Wednesday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Jake Harfman lines up for a kickoff during warm-ups.
Coach Carroll plays scout-team quarterback during a 7-on-7 drill for the defensive backs.
Coach Carroll watches on as Aaron Corp leads the service-team offense.
Mitch Mustain quarterbacks the offense in 7-on-7 period.
Tailback Allen Bradford and Matt Barkley fill out the backfield during team period.
Thoughts from Wednesday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- A day after getting rocked by the defense, the offense rebounded with an all-around powerful performance Wednesday, pitching a shutout in the turnover category and capturing a dominating 9-6 win in the final team period. "That's a big turnaround day for the offense!" Coach Carroll exclaimed in the post-practice team huddle.
- Sidelined since Saturday with a thigh bruise, tailback Joe McKnight participated in very limited fashion Wednesday. Carroll again said his status for the game will be determined later this week, but in the meantime, tailbacks C.J. Gable and Curtis McNeal received extra reps in his stead.
- During team period, Matt Barkley threw a pair of touchdown strikes to wideout Brandon Carswell on back-to-back plays before C.J. Gable shot upfield for a long run, thanks in large part to a bruising block at the line by fullback Stanley Havili.
- Besides the victories in team period and with the day's theme on a chilly Turnover Wednesday, the offense also soared to a 13-2 win in 7-on-7 drills. Wideout Brice Butler had the play of the period when he leaped up for a twisting catch in the corner of the end zone.
- Remarkably, the heaviest portion of the Trojans' weekly practice regimen is already in the books as the final week of the regular season continues to scream by. "This week is flying," Carroll said in the team huddle after practice. "It's already almost Thursday."
- A day after getting rocked by the defense, the offense rebounded with an all-around powerful performance Wednesday, pitching a shutout in the turnover category and capturing a dominating 9-6 win in the final team period. "That's a big turnaround day for the offense!" Coach Carroll exclaimed in the post-practice team huddle.
- Sidelined since Saturday with a thigh bruise, tailback Joe McKnight participated in very limited fashion Wednesday. Carroll again said his status for the game will be determined later this week, but in the meantime, tailbacks C.J. Gable and Curtis McNeal received extra reps in his stead.
- During team period, Matt Barkley threw a pair of touchdown strikes to wideout Brandon Carswell on back-to-back plays before C.J. Gable shot upfield for a long run, thanks in large part to a bruising block at the line by fullback Stanley Havili.
- Besides the victories in team period and with the day's theme on a chilly Turnover Wednesday, the offense also soared to a 13-2 win in 7-on-7 drills. Wideout Brice Butler had the play of the period when he leaped up for a twisting catch in the corner of the end zone.
- Remarkably, the heaviest portion of the Trojans' weekly practice regimen is already in the books as the final week of the regular season continues to scream by. "This week is flying," Carroll said in the team huddle after practice. "It's already almost Thursday."
The Trojans' weekly Turnover Wednesday practice, the final one of the regular season, just got started on Howard Jones Field, so we'll return with a report after the half-pads workout.
It's only been 90 hours since the Trojans last played at the Coliseum, but you might think it's been 90 days considering how fast the white paint wears out and how quickly much of the grass starts fading back to green. Groundskeepers will begin the lengthy re-painting process Thursday before finishing it up Friday and even Saturday morning just hours before kickoff.
The memorial service for Herb Farmer, the legendary USC professor and athletic department employee, will be Feb. 6 at 2 p.m. at the on-campus Norris Theater.
Creating some nice symmetry for the weekend, both USC and Arizona enter the regular season finale with an even turnover margin. After 11 games apiece, the two squads each have recorded the same number of takeaways as giveaways.
That stat means that more than likely, turnovers will be the deciding factor on Saturday.
"The plus team is going to win this game," Coach Carroll declared during this afternoon's team meeting.
The Trojans will have an opportunity to practice their ball protection and ball hawking during this afternoon's turnover-themed workout, set to begin at 4:15.
That stat means that more than likely, turnovers will be the deciding factor on Saturday.
"The plus team is going to win this game," Coach Carroll declared during this afternoon's team meeting.
The Trojans will have an opportunity to practice their ball protection and ball hawking during this afternoon's turnover-themed workout, set to begin at 4:15.
An interview with Coach Carroll will air on AM-570's "Petros Money Show" at 4:30 p.m. today. You can listen to a live internet stream here.
Turnover Wednesday is beginning now with a special teams film session for the kickoff and field goal block units. Team, offense/defense and position group meetings follow before a half-pads practice at 4:15.
By Sourena VasseghiWith Rich Finley
USCRipsIt Guest Bloggers
Wow, it's so hard to believe that this Saturday at the Coliseum is the final game of this topsy-turvy season. And to be ending it with Arizona, instead of a fierce rival like UCLA or Notre Dame, is just kinda...weird.
But that makes it so appropriate. Because this season has been strange. Normally when a young team has growing pains, you see that in the early going. But this season started off like most others -- a high ranking to open the season, a big marquee victory, but then all of sudden, injuries and inconsistency took their toll and made this season just a bizarre one. But I'll be there on Saturday, rooting my boys on, and will eagerly anticipate the upcoming bowl game.
Now, I want to share something really cool with you. Weeks ago my speaking partner Rich and I spoke for Dean Ellis in the Marshall School of Business at USC for parents weekend. It was in a huge lecture hall on campus and all the students had their parents with them. It was an incredibly rewarding experience and for an hour-and-a-half, I talked about my life, my book, gave the kids my tools for success in business and life, and fielded questions.
Last week, I received an amazing gift from Dean Ellis. It was a package of all the papers the students wrote about that event. I was touched and overwhelmed by their sentiments. Usually, every time we speak, we receive compliments such as "great job" or "that was so inspiring" or "so funny." I always wonder if the lessons that I talk about truly resonate with the audience or if they get lost among the most humorous aspects of the talk, and especially so when it comes to speaking to a group of young people who are bombarded by a society geared towards short attention spans.
I was so touched to read comments such as "Sourena was the most inspirational speaker we've ever had." But what got me really thrilled were the essays of quiet reflection so many of the kids wrote. So many of them questioned their work ethic, their desire, their appreciation for life, citing me as an example that they could always work harder.
One student in particular wrote, "I have always been lazy in school and sports and life has been easy for me. To tell you the truth, I'm pretty cocky, and have always felt like life will just 'work out'. But Mr. Vasseghi has just punched me right in the face and shown me that I need to humble myself, and work my butt off in order to achieve the things I want."
Now, first of all, I never punched anyone in the face. But I appreciated his point. That's why I'm doing what I'm doing with my life. I feel like it's so easy for all of us to lose sight of what's important, become lazy, etc., and if I have the ability to make people stop for just a minute, reflect on their life, maybe offer some words of encouragement or hope that they can apply to the rest of their lives, what an amazing gift YOU give to ME, to allow me the opportunity to do that.
I wish I could just post them all and maybe I'll include more comments in the future, but you don't need to be an author or a motivational speaker to make a difference in someone's life. Sometimes it's through your words, and sometimes it's just through being yourself that you are constantly settling an example that someone, whether it's your friends, co-workers, children, etc., will notice, dissect and emulate.
We should all focus on what impact we want to make, because whether you intend to make an impact or not, one way or the other, you always do.
• Sourena Vasseghi, a motivational speaker and writer, has addressed the USC football team on several occasions over the years. His book, "Love your life and it will love you back," is available here.
Coach Carroll is calling on you to help the cause. Will you step up and answer the appeal?
Carroll and A Better LA are hoping to collect 10,000 toys for the 2009 A Better LA Toy Drive this December. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, fans can drop off unwrapped toys at the ESPN Radio broadcast booth on the peristyle end of the Coliseum, as well as at the ESPN Zone and Rock'N Fish at L.A. Live from now until Dec. 19. All gifts will be distributed to underprivileged children in South Los Angeles at various holiday events put on by Carroll's inner-city foundation.
Also, if you can't make it to the game or L.A. Live, you can donate $10 to the toy drive by texting TOY to 85944 and then replying YES to confirm.
Carroll and A Better LA are hoping to collect 10,000 toys for the 2009 A Better LA Toy Drive this December. Starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday, fans can drop off unwrapped toys at the ESPN Radio broadcast booth on the peristyle end of the Coliseum, as well as at the ESPN Zone and Rock'N Fish at L.A. Live from now until Dec. 19. All gifts will be distributed to underprivileged children in South Los Angeles at various holiday events put on by Carroll's inner-city foundation.
Also, if you can't make it to the game or L.A. Live, you can donate $10 to the toy drive by texting TOY to 85944 and then replying YES to confirm.
USC football was born in 1888, but do you ever wonder how and why it got started 121 years ago?
According to a letter from USC's first football coach that was recently uncovered by program historian Michael Glenn, the idea for a gridiron team initially came from USC Latin professor Elmer Merrill. Here's an excerpt from the 1951 letter written by Henry Goddard, who served as co-coach of the 1888 team with Frank Suffel:
"Football was [Prof. Elmer Merrill's] idea. When he learned that I had played on my college team, he said one day: 'Let's teach these boys football. You can play with them and coach them from within and I will coach them from the sidelines.' I readily agreed. He spoke to two or three of the boys that he knew and the game was born. The field was a vacant block, I would guess just S. or S.W. of [Bovard Field]."
Those humble beginnings -- the first team went 2-0 with a pair of wins over Alliance Athletic Club -- set the stage for 11 national championships, 31 bowl victories, 154 All-Americans, seven Heisman Trophy winners and 426 NFL players.
And now see the front and back of the original 1951 letter from Goddard to Tom Lawless (the salutation misspells it), USC's sports information director at the time:
According to a letter from USC's first football coach that was recently uncovered by program historian Michael Glenn, the idea for a gridiron team initially came from USC Latin professor Elmer Merrill. Here's an excerpt from the 1951 letter written by Henry Goddard, who served as co-coach of the 1888 team with Frank Suffel:
"Football was [Prof. Elmer Merrill's] idea. When he learned that I had played on my college team, he said one day: 'Let's teach these boys football. You can play with them and coach them from within and I will coach them from the sidelines.' I readily agreed. He spoke to two or three of the boys that he knew and the game was born. The field was a vacant block, I would guess just S. or S.W. of [Bovard Field]."
Those humble beginnings -- the first team went 2-0 with a pair of wins over Alliance Athletic Club -- set the stage for 11 national championships, 31 bowl victories, 154 All-Americans, seven Heisman Trophy winners and 426 NFL players.
And now see the front and back of the original 1951 letter from Goddard to Tom Lawless (the salutation misspells it), USC's sports information director at the time:
In the War Room late this morning, offensive lineman Jeff Byers watches film of Arizona's defense. Byers, who's all but finished with his MBA degree after taking a few night classes this semester, has had extra time during weekday mornings this fall to come into the office and watch film of the upcoming opponent.
Offensive lineman Jeff Byers, kicker Jordan Congdon, fullback Adam Goodman, quarterback/wideout Garrett Green and safety Drew McAllister have received honorable mentions for the Pac-10 All-Academic team.
It's a season of giving, but for Coach Carroll, it seems like it's always a season of receiving.
Carroll collects some of the strangest gifts from fans and supporters, and they all seem to just pile up in his Heritage Hall office for all his guests to see. In the last few weeks alone, some of the most outlandish presents have included a massive red sombrero, a classic Fender guitar, a snazzy painting of Traveler and a full set of brand-new Titleist golf clubs in a monogrammed USC bag.
Carroll collects some of the strangest gifts from fans and supporters, and they all seem to just pile up in his Heritage Hall office for all his guests to see. In the last few weeks alone, some of the most outlandish presents have included a massive red sombrero, a classic Fender guitar, a snazzy painting of Traveler and a full set of brand-new Titleist golf clubs in a monogrammed USC bag.
Check out this very complimentary piece on USC's rookie linebackers in the NFL, from ESPN.com. Thanks to RipsIt reader Lorenzo Obregon for passing it along.
Mark Sanchez might have a future career as a baseball player.
OK, maybe that's a stretch, but the Jets rookie quarterback took sliding lessons from Yankees manager Joe Girardi on Tuesday, according to this AP feature story.
OK, maybe that's a stretch, but the Jets rookie quarterback took sliding lessons from Yankees manager Joe Girardi on Tuesday, according to this AP feature story.
Coaches just poured into the War Room to pore over highlight tapes of dozens of prospects in the recruiting class of 2010, continuing a Wednesday morning rite with Signing Day almost exactly two months away.
"Let's go fellas, we gotta recruit!" a noticeably excited Coach Carroll said while bounding around the office to round up his assistants for the meeting. "The recruiting process... continues!"
"Let's go fellas, we gotta recruit!" a noticeably excited Coach Carroll said while bounding around the office to round up his assistants for the meeting. "The recruiting process... continues!"
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Schedule switcheroo: Moving the Arizona game
- Stafon now speaking: Johnson whispering
- Instant replay: Carroll's press conference
- NFL Trojan highlights: Week 12
- Deceptive record: Arizona strong
- Can't have one without the other: Penalties and third downs go together
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Tuesday's practice report
- Tuesday's photo album, by Po-He Tseng
Check out this slideshow of images from Tuesday's practice, brought to you by USCRipsIt staff photographer Po-He Tseng:
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Photos by Po-He Tseng, USCRipsIt staff photographer
Thoughts from Tuesday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- Just three days removed from one of its strongest games of the year, the defense produced a shutdown performance Tuesday, taking an early 5-0 lead before cruising to a 12-8 overall practice victory on the last competition-themed workout of the regular season. The defense had a 10-3 lead at one point during the dominating 20-play final team period, prompting linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. to repeatedly shout, "This is still a defensive team!" "The defense had another huge Competition Tuesday," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle.
- The offense found success in the 7-on-7 passing-focused period, completing 12-of-15 tosses behind Matt Barkley's efficient and sharp passing.
- Joe McKnight (thigh bruise) sat out of practice for the second straight day, but he made his presence known regardless of his on-field absence, as the junior tailback was a main participant in the traditional Competition Tuesday banter between the offense and defense. Carroll said McKnight should return to practice Wednesday. "I think he's going to be OK for the weekend but he might not get much work in this week," Carroll said.
- Relegated to the bench with a knee injury for the last five games, center Kristofer O'Dowd will be back in the starting lineup Saturday, Carroll said. O'Dowd's return will shift Jeff Byers to left guard and Butch Lewis to right guard, which will sideline Alex Parsons.
- Tight end Rhett Ellison, wearing receivers gloves for the first time, made a spectacular catch over the middle during 7-on-7 period, eliciting Norton's half-serious comparisons to legendary Dallas Cowboys tight end Jay Novacek.
- Chilly temperatures and the Trojan Marching Band's constant tunes during the Trojans' practice created a prototypical night for football under the lights on the first day of December.
- Just three days removed from one of its strongest games of the year, the defense produced a shutdown performance Tuesday, taking an early 5-0 lead before cruising to a 12-8 overall practice victory on the last competition-themed workout of the regular season. The defense had a 10-3 lead at one point during the dominating 20-play final team period, prompting linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. to repeatedly shout, "This is still a defensive team!" "The defense had another huge Competition Tuesday," Coach Carroll said in the post-practice team huddle.
- The offense found success in the 7-on-7 passing-focused period, completing 12-of-15 tosses behind Matt Barkley's efficient and sharp passing.
- Joe McKnight (thigh bruise) sat out of practice for the second straight day, but he made his presence known regardless of his on-field absence, as the junior tailback was a main participant in the traditional Competition Tuesday banter between the offense and defense. Carroll said McKnight should return to practice Wednesday. "I think he's going to be OK for the weekend but he might not get much work in this week," Carroll said.
- Relegated to the bench with a knee injury for the last five games, center Kristofer O'Dowd will be back in the starting lineup Saturday, Carroll said. O'Dowd's return will shift Jeff Byers to left guard and Butch Lewis to right guard, which will sideline Alex Parsons.
- Tight end Rhett Ellison, wearing receivers gloves for the first time, made a spectacular catch over the middle during 7-on-7 period, eliciting Norton's half-serious comparisons to legendary Dallas Cowboys tight end Jay Novacek.
- Chilly temperatures and the Trojan Marching Band's constant tunes during the Trojans' practice created a prototypical night for football under the lights on the first day of December.
The final in-season Competition Tuesday is getting started now on Howard Jones Field, so we'll return with a report after the half-pads workout.
The year's common themes are fittingly getting the spotlight during the last week of the regular season.
USC will again be spending extra time emphasizing and improving their issues with penalties and third downs -- two of the Trojans' fatal flaws so far in 2009 -- during practices this week. Logically, the two problems often go hand in hand, as penalties usually create third-and-long situations, which are obviously much more difficult to convert into first downs than the more appealing third-and-short situations.
During the UCLA game on Saturday, the USC offense went 4-for-12 (33 percent) on third downs, but the conversion troubles usually stemmed from what happened before third down. Of the 12 third-down opportunities, an astounding five were third-and-11 or longer and, as you can surmise, none were converted. In fact, all eight drives from Saturday that ended with failed third-down attempts included at least one penalty or negative-gain play.
On the other hand, the four successful conversions occurred on third-and-4 or shorter, so it's increasingly apparent the Trojans' two problems -- penalties and third downs -- are closely connected. The battle cry is being sung loud and clear around Heritage Hall: Limit penalties and third-down success will start pouring forth.
"We've got to keep the flow going and keep the offense moving," Coach Carroll told his players this afternoon.
USC will again be spending extra time emphasizing and improving their issues with penalties and third downs -- two of the Trojans' fatal flaws so far in 2009 -- during practices this week. Logically, the two problems often go hand in hand, as penalties usually create third-and-long situations, which are obviously much more difficult to convert into first downs than the more appealing third-and-short situations.
During the UCLA game on Saturday, the USC offense went 4-for-12 (33 percent) on third downs, but the conversion troubles usually stemmed from what happened before third down. Of the 12 third-down opportunities, an astounding five were third-and-11 or longer and, as you can surmise, none were converted. In fact, all eight drives from Saturday that ended with failed third-down attempts included at least one penalty or negative-gain play.
On the other hand, the four successful conversions occurred on third-and-4 or shorter, so it's increasingly apparent the Trojans' two problems -- penalties and third downs -- are closely connected. The battle cry is being sung loud and clear around Heritage Hall: Limit penalties and third-down success will start pouring forth.
"We've got to keep the flow going and keep the offense moving," Coach Carroll told his players this afternoon.
Arizona enters the Coliseum this Saturday sporting a 7-4 record, though the won-loss total doesn't quite represent the team's potency, as all four losses have come via narrow, heartbreaking finishes.
The Wildcats lost by 10 at previously unbeaten Iowa, by three on a fluke play at Washington, by eight on another insane play at California and then by three in double overtime against Oregon. Even with the wild finishes, Arizona was once sitting at 6-2 overall and in second place in the Pac-10, so the Trojans are facing a tough task on Saturday.
"They've had a very difficult season, but they're a very, very good football team," Carroll said about the Wildcats during the team meeting this afternoon.
Arizona's defense ranks second in the conference by allowing 319.1 yards per game, and the Wildcats are the least-penalized team in the Pac-10 with only 44.5 penalty yards per contest. The Trojans, meanwhile, have a similarly strong defense but give up, on average, 66.5 penalty yards per game, 22 more per contest than Arizona.
The Wildcats lost by 10 at previously unbeaten Iowa, by three on a fluke play at Washington, by eight on another insane play at California and then by three in double overtime against Oregon. Even with the wild finishes, Arizona was once sitting at 6-2 overall and in second place in the Pac-10, so the Trojans are facing a tough task on Saturday.
"They've had a very difficult season, but they're a very, very good football team," Carroll said about the Wildcats during the team meeting this afternoon.
Arizona's defense ranks second in the conference by allowing 319.1 yards per game, and the Wildcats are the least-penalized team in the Pac-10 with only 44.5 penalty yards per contest. The Trojans, meanwhile, have a similarly strong defense but give up, on average, 66.5 penalty yards per game, 22 more per contest than Arizona.
See the TV highlights for the standout Trojan alumni during Week 12 of the NFL season in this video the team watched during this afternoon's meeting. It's courtesy of Eric Espinoza and the video operations department:
Hear Coach Carroll's thoughts on Garrett Green and what his injury means to the Trojans in this week's edition of "AT&T Ask Coach:"
The final Competition Tuesday of the regular season just got underway.
The special teams has started their daily film review in Heritage Auditorium, and the Trojans will follow that with team, offense/defense and position group meetings before a half-pads practice at 4:15 p.m.
The special teams has started their daily film review in Heritage Auditorium, and the Trojans will follow that with team, offense/defense and position group meetings before a half-pads practice at 4:15 p.m.
ESPN.com has named the Trojan Marching Band and USC Song Girls as the best in college football.
"USC's band is known as the Spirit of Troy, but it could just as well be called the Spirit of College Football," the article states.
"USC's band is known as the Spirit of Troy, but it could just as well be called the Spirit of College Football," the article states.
In case you missed it, here's the full replay of Coach Carroll's press conference, including an entertaining discussion between Carroll and L.A. Times columnist T.J. Simers that'll surely appear as part of his article in Wednesday morning's paper.
You couldn't dial up better weather for the final game of the season.
Sunny skies and a high of 70 degrees are projected for Saturday afternoon's USC-Arizona game at the Coliseum, according to the Weather Channel's forecast.
Sunny skies and a high of 70 degrees are projected for Saturday afternoon's USC-Arizona game at the Coliseum, according to the Weather Channel's forecast.
Relive the 1984 USC-Arizona game, during which the Trojans won and took another step toward claiming the Pac-10 title, through this "SC Classics" piece, produced by Mark Haas. The video is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
Coach Carroll is about to begin his weekly press conference, so watch it live for free here, courtesy of USCTrojans.com.
Stafon Johnson continues to bring positive news every time he returns to the Trojans.
Sixty-three days after his scary weightlifting accident and extensive reconstructive throat surgery, Johnson stopped by the USC football office in Heritage Hall this morning to say hi to his coaches and chat with Coach Carroll.
And yes, "say" and "chat" are definitely the operative words in that sentence.
As encouraging and heartening a development as you'll see, Johnson is now whispering in a quiet, raspy voice, certainly enough to carry a conversation and express what he couldn't for so long.
"He can talk!" a smiling Coach Carroll, beaming with happiness, said as Johnson walked out of the office.
Sixty-three days after his scary weightlifting accident and extensive reconstructive throat surgery, Johnson stopped by the USC football office in Heritage Hall this morning to say hi to his coaches and chat with Coach Carroll.
And yes, "say" and "chat" are definitely the operative words in that sentence.
As encouraging and heartening a development as you'll see, Johnson is now whispering in a quiet, raspy voice, certainly enough to carry a conversation and express what he couldn't for so long.
"He can talk!" a smiling Coach Carroll, beaming with happiness, said as Johnson walked out of the office.
Watch Coach Carroll's weekly press conference -- his final one of the season -- live for free at noon today, courtesy of USCTrojans.com.
It wasn't supposed to be like this.
The Trojans are busy preparing for Arizona this week, but if the original schedule had held static, USC's season would've been over by now.
Until January, the Trojans were set to play Arizona on Oct. 10 and finish the season against UCLA on Nov. 28, but ABC requested to move the game against the Wildcats and put it on national TV on this Saturday. Coach Carroll agreed to the change about 11 months ago, in large part because it afforded his team a bye in the middle of the season. The original schedule before the switch had USC playing on 11 consecutive Saturdays, with only one bye just before the game against the Bruins.
While ending the season with an opponent other than UCLA or Notre Dame is a rarity, the schedule switch gave the Trojans a much-needed midseason bye while also putting the team on a national stage on the final weekend of the season.
"The bye was most beneficial for us," Carroll said. "It worked out very well for us."
The Trojans are busy preparing for Arizona this week, but if the original schedule had held static, USC's season would've been over by now.
Until January, the Trojans were set to play Arizona on Oct. 10 and finish the season against UCLA on Nov. 28, but ABC requested to move the game against the Wildcats and put it on national TV on this Saturday. Coach Carroll agreed to the change about 11 months ago, in large part because it afforded his team a bye in the middle of the season. The original schedule before the switch had USC playing on 11 consecutive Saturdays, with only one bye just before the game against the Bruins.
While ending the season with an opponent other than UCLA or Notre Dame is a rarity, the schedule switch gave the Trojans a much-needed midseason bye while also putting the team on a national stage on the final weekend of the season.
"The bye was most beneficial for us," Carroll said. "It worked out very well for us."
Here's how you can watch, listen to or otherwise follow Saturday's USC-Arizona game:
- Kickoff: 12:36 p.m.
- National TV: ABC (Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox)
- Live internet stream: ESPN360.com
- Local L.A. radio: 710-AM
- National radio: ESPN Radio
- Live internet play-by-play: USCTrojans.com GameTracker
Go inside the locker room and be on the sidelines during the USC-UCLA game through this 13-minute "Flashback" feature, produced by Rob McPherson of the USC video production department. The video is for USCTrojans.com All-Access subscribers only, so if you're not an All-Access member, become one for $9.95/month here.
It's already the final week of classes for the fall semester, so the heat is being turned up as players look to earn marks to remain on track to graduate or, at the very least, maintain their eligibility for the bowl game.
"Everybody do everything," Coach Carroll told his players on Monday, returning to a theme he's been harping on all semester. "We need you, you need it. Get this done."
"Everybody do everything," Coach Carroll told his players on Monday, returning to a theme he's been harping on all semester. "We need you, you need it. Get this done."
Saturday's USC-Arizona game at the Coliseum, set for a 12:36 p.m. kickoff, is getting the national treatment, as ABC will be broadcasting the game across the entire country. It is the only game in that time slot on the network, marking the eighth time this season the Trojans have played with a full national telecast (the previous ones include four on FSN, two on ABC/ESPN and one on NBC).
Announcers Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox -- the team that had the Oregon State and Arizona State games -- will get the call for ABC.
Announcers Mike Patrick, Craig James and Heather Cox -- the team that had the Oregon State and Arizona State games -- will get the call for ABC.
In case you couldn't follow us live, "The RipsIt Minute" gives you a quick rundown of the must-read Blog entries from the previous day:
- Reliving the game: Photo albums from UCLA win
- Green's injury a major setback: Losing one of the team's MVPs
- Endless bowl scenarios: Lots of places to go
- Driving to the win: "Drive of the game"
- Smith named Pac-10 player of the week: LB earns conference honor
- Turnover time: USC now 52-0 with plus margin in last 8 seasons
- A special day: Special teams has a big game
- Pump you up: Cool FSN intro video
- Dispatch from Howard Jones: Monday's practice report
- Pictures from Monday's practice
