USC Trojans:

Jump men

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 12:43 PM | No Comments

Heritage Hall was the site of an old-fashioned Western duel this morning.

Well, something like that.

Coaches found themselves in a usual position -- in the War Room -- to watch player evaluation tapes, which also revealed offseason testing results such as sprint times and jump measurements. After noticing the standing vertical jump marks, the staffers started to wonder if they could do better than some of the players.

Most were probably joking, but running backs coach Todd McNair and wide receivers coach John Morton apparently were not. With the other coaches watching on in amusement, the two staffers engaged in lighthearted duel, calling for the vertical jump testing device to be brought up to the football office.

The 40-year-old Morton, a former wideout in the CFL, went first and jumped 26 inches before McNair, a former running back and special teams standout who enjoyed an eight-year NFL career, soared up 31.5 inches. The quality mark was made even more impressive when considering McNair tore his ACL two years ago and he's, um, 44.

"I could've jumped higher," a beaming McNair said, oozing nonchalance.

News from the Combine: Heights and weights

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 12:11 PM | No Comments

Here are the latest height and weight measurements for the Trojans at the NFL Combine:

TB Stafon Johnson: 5-11, 214
TB Joe McKnight: 5-11, 198
WR Damian Williams: 6-1, 197

Deep into the Combine

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 11:28 AM | No Comments

Already on its third day, the NFL Combine is moving right along.

With seven of his former teammates already in the scouting process in Indianapolis, defensive end Everson Griffen will begin his four-day Combine experience today. Defensive backs Taylor Mays, Josh Pinkard and Kevin Thomas will start Saturday.

Workouts will begin Saturday (for tight end Anthony McCoy and offensive linemen Charles Brown, Jeff Byers and Alex Parsons) and proceed until Tuesday. The NFL Network will carry several hours of workout coverage this weekend and early next week.

Get the schedule of events and a list of Trojan participants here.

Weight on their shoulders

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 11:03 AM | No Comments

Linebacker Chris Galippo and other Trojans go through a shoulder weightlifting circuit during workouts on what head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus calls "Finish Friday."

Senior night for hoops

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 10:34 AM | No Comments

The USC men's basketball team will play its final home game of the season on Saturday afternoon at 4:30 p.m., when the Trojans face Oregon State at the Galen Center. Buy your tickets here.

Playing at Dodger Stadium

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 10:11 AM | No Comments

The USC baseball team will face off against UCLA at Dodger Stadium on Sunday at 2 p.m., taking part in a special four-team mini tournament on the legendary diamond in Chavez Ravine. Tickets cost just $5 and can be purchased here.

Check out this short video containing interviews with the players about the matchup and get all the pertinent info about the special game here.

Buy tickets here.

Calling all coaches

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 9:43 AM | No Comments

All high school and junior college coaches -- and even casual USC football fans -- are invited to the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic on April 9-10 at the Galen Center. The event has sold out in each of the previous six seasons, so be sure to register now before it's too late.

Get all the info, including hotel and registration information, here.

Cart blanche

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 9:04 AM | No Comments

The renowned T-Raymobile just got an upgrade.

For several years, administrative advisor Terrel Ray, affectionately referred to as "T-Ray," had been scooting around campus to check class attendance for USC student-athletes in an older, simpler electric golf cart. But as of Thursday, he's been bumped up to first class.

Ray's new mode of transportation looks more like an all-terrain vehicle than golf cart, as it has massive wheels, a higher axel base, a roof and even a metal front grill. Ray said he loves the change in vehicle, as it gives him a newer, nicer method to get around campus, while also providing a more intimidating look as he goes from class to class.

"The kids are giving me a hard time about it," Ray said with a chuckle.

Administrative advisor Terrel Ray, whose main duties include checking to make sure USC student-athletes are attending class, has received a new electric cart to get around campus to perform his job.

Must-see TV

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 8:50 AM | No Comments

You've got to watch this neat video feature on Stafon Johnson, from NFL.com.

Juniors have their day

By Jordan Moore on February 26, 2010 8:31 AM | No Comments

Truly, the recruiting process never ends.

The Trojan football program will host its annual Junior Day on Saturday, giving coaches an early in-person look at several prospects they're interested in for the Class of 2011. The invite-only on-campus event will attract roughly 60 high school juniors and their parents, who will meet the USC coaching staff, attend academic meetings, go on campus and facility tours and then head to the Trojan basketball game at the Galen Center that afternoon.

Hoops action

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 5:04 PM | No Comments

Be sure to follow along on the Trojans Fever Basketball Blog before, during and after tonight's USC-Oregon game from the Galen Center. Tipoff's set for 7:30 p.m., and the game isn't on TV, so the Blog is the place to go for an all-access look into tonight's matchup.

The new heart of campus

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 4:02 PM | 2 Comments

The new state-of-the-art Ronald Tutor Campus Center nears completion, with a projected finish date set for late May. Developed to be USC's new commons area and central gathering place, the 193,000-square-foot Tutor Campus Center, situated right near Tommy Trojan, will house dining options, offices, study areas and meeting rooms, among much more.

Tatupu memorial info

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 2:55 PM | No Comments

A private memorial service for Mosi Tatupu will be held Sunday in Wrentham, Mass.

If you'd like to send a card to the Tatupu family, please mail it to: Linnea Garcia-Tatupu, P.O. Box 426, Lemon Grove, CA 91946. If you'd like to make a donation, in lieu of flowers, please send a check to: USA Football, c/o Mosi Tatupu Memorial Fund, 8300 Boone Blvd., Ste. 625, Vienna, VA 22182. Checks must be made payable to "USA Football," with "Mosi Tatupu" in the memo line. Your donation will assist in the development and advancement of youth football in American Samoa.

Giving it all

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 2:29 PM | No Comments

Here's info about a special event set for March 3 and put on by the USC Catholic Center and Office of Religious Life, featuring Trojan alums Matt Leinart and Ryan Kalil:

News from the Combine: Heights and weights

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 2:07 PM | No Comments

The first wave of players was measured for heights and weights at the NFL Combine, so check out the Trojans' official stats, courtesy of NFL.com:

OT Charles Brown: 6-5, 303
OL Jeff Byers: 6-3, 301
TE Anthony McCoy: 6-4, 259
OL Alex Parsons: 6-4, 309

Hello 'Bam'

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 1:37 PM | 6 Comments

Legendary USC fullback Sam "Bam" Cunningham stops by the football office this afternoon to chat with current staff members, including assistant coach Ed Orgeron.

News from the Combine: Charles Brown

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 1:14 PM | No Comments

Tackle Charles Brown, who hasn't allowed a sack since early in his junior season, weighed in at 303 pounds at the Combine, and he's receiving some positive reviews according to this Seattle Times story.

For a good read

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 12:31 PM | No Comments

Check out this interesting two-part Q&A with assistant coach Ed Orgeron, from the O.C. Register.

Tatupu tributes

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 11:52 AM | No Comments

In the wake of the passing of USC and NFL great Mosi Tatupu, here's a comprehensive obituary and a nice tribute video produced by a blog dedicated to Polynesian football players:

Serving the community

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 11:28 AM | 1 Comment

Don't miss this cool video recapping last Saturday's "Cry Out" community service event hosted by Athletes in Action and attended by several Trojan football players, including Matt Barkley, Michael Morgan, Hebron Fangupo, Ronald Johnson, Wes Horton, Shane Horton, D.J. Shoemate, Joe Houston and Robbie Boyer.

Thanks to USCRipsIt's Katie Boggs for the video.

Jumping for joy

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 10:50 AM | No Comments

Wideout Jordan Cameron (left) and tailback C.J. Gable go through standing broad jump exercises on Cromwell Field as part of workouts this morning.

Combine's second day

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 10:03 AM | No Comments

Day 2 of the NFL Combine is underway in Indianapolis, with wideout Damian Williams and tailbacks Stafon Johnson and Joe McKnight beginning their four-day rotations through tests, exams, workouts and interviews. Tight end Anthony McCoy and offensive linemen Charles Brown, Jeff Byers and Alex Parsons started on Wednesday.

Check out the full schedule and all the info about the USC alums participating in the Combine here.

Covering hoops

By Jordan Moore on February 25, 2010 9:09 AM | No Comments

Be sure to check out the Trojan Fever Basketball Blog tonight for unique all-access coverage leading up to, during and after USC's game against Oregon at the Galen Center (tipoff set for 7:30 p.m.). We'll be taking the same insider coverage you've seen on RipsIt and bringing it to the basketball blog for tonight's game, so don't miss out on this special view into the hoops program.

Healing grounds

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 3:16 PM | No Comments

The offseason doesn't just allow players and coaches to rest and heal from the long season, it also affords the Trojans' practice grounds -- Howard Jones and Brian Kennedy fields -- to recover from the brutal wear-and-tear incurred during the five months of in-season practices. In the coming weeks, groundskeepers will begin prepping the pristine turf for Spring Practice, which starts March 30.

Double the pleasure

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 2:04 PM | No Comments

See the Lane Kiffin era get off the ground and be on a Hawaiian vacation -- all in one.

Purchase a travel package through Pleasant Holidays and receive roundtrip airfare, tailgate and game tickets to see the Trojans play Hawaii on Sept. 2 and ground transportation in Honolulu. Packages start at $1,049 through the official travel provider for USC fans for the 2010 game at Hawaii.

Get more info about the offer here. You can purchase online or over the phone at (888) 996-6698.

Homestretch for hoops

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 1:28 PM | No Comments

Just 1.5 games out of first place in the Pac-10 with four to play, the men's basketball team hosts its final two home games of the 2009-10 season this week, with contests against Oregon (Thursday at 7:30 p.m.) and Oregon State (Saturday at 4:30 p.m.) at the Galen Center. Get your tickets here.

Muscle up

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 12:51 PM | 2 Comments

Assistant strength and conditioning coach Tatyana Obukhova unloads and stores the new shipment of Muscle Milk that arrived at Heritage Hall today. To facilitate recuperation after workouts, players can drink seemingly endless supplies of the protein drinks, which contain a whopping 18 grams of protein and 250 calories per 11-ounce container. Following the recent shipment, roughly 6,000 cartons of Muscle Milk will be available for consumption for football players and all USC athletes, a total that should last for a little less than two months.

Stafon's diary

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 12:03 PM | No Comments

As he prepares for the NFL Draft in April, Stafon Johnson is writing a blog for Sporting News, and his latest entry provides a glimpse into his mindset heading into the NFL Combine this week.

The next big step: NFL Combine

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 11:16 AM | No Comments

Think of it as a job interview -- except on national TV, in front of hundreds of high-level executives and with millions of dollars riding on just a few seconds.

The 2010 NFL Combine officially begins today, with 11 Trojans set to arrive in Indianapolis to begin the four-day evaluation process in front of executives and coaches from all 32 NFL teams.

All players will go through the same four-day rotation during the Combine, simply starting it on different days this week. Here's what the schedule looks like:

Day 1: Travel, registration, pre-exam and X-ray, orientation, interviews
Day 2: Measurements, exams, media, psych tests, interviews
Day 3: NFLPA meeting, psych tests, interviews
Day 4: Workout (timing, stations, skill drills), departure

Offensive linemen, tight end and specialists begin the cycle today; quarterbacks, wideouts and running backs start Thursday; defensive linemen and linebackers begin Friday; and defensive backs start Saturday. Here's a look at the 11 Trojans, sorted by position and start date, who were invited to the 2010 Combine.

Starting at the Combine today
OL Charles Brown
OT Jeff Byers
OL Alex Parsons
TE Anthony McCoy

Starting at the Combine on Thursday
TB Stafon Johnson
TB Joe McKnight
WR Damian Williams

Starting at the Combine on Friday
DE Everson Griffen

Starting at the Combine on Saturday
S Taylor Mays
DB Josh Pinkard
CB Kevin Thomas

Nothing but freaks

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 10:31 AM | 2 Comments

Don't miss this ESPN video that describes the jaw-dropping training regimen for Taylor Mays, Everson Griffen and three other top-of-the-line NFL-bound prospects as they prepare for the Combine. Thanks to RipsIt reader Greg Hodge for passing it along.

Women's hoops tournament offers

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 9:50 AM | No Comments

Take advantage of these two great offers associated with the Pac-10 women's basketball tournament at the Galen Center on March 11-14:

Dads & Daughters Night on March 13: For a $40 dad-daughter ticket package, you get two single-session game tickets, a commemorative lanyard, souvenir photo, group welcome, entries into a raffle and opportunities to compete for prizes in halftime competitions. Get more info here and order online here.
Pac-10 4 Pink Day on March 14: For $20, you get a ticket to the championship game, contribute to breast cancer research and receive a souvenir travel tote. Get more info here and order online here.

Mosi Tatupu passes away

By Jordan Moore on February 24, 2010 9:13 AM | 3 Comments

USC great Mosi Tatupu, who played for the Trojans in 1974-77 before a 13-year NFL career, died Tuesday of unknown causes. He was 54.

Tatupu's son, Lofa, also starred at USC and is now a Pro Bowl linebacker for the Seattle Seahawks.

USC alum Mosi Tatupu, seen here playing for the New England Patriots during his 13-year NFL career, passed away Tuesday. He was 54. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]

Home sweet home

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 4:03 PM | No Comments

With some snowy mountains and the L.A. skyline in the distance, the Coliseum and its bare field sit empty today, about three months since its last USC football game and still more than six months away from its next one.

Student videographers wanted

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 3:09 PM | No Comments

Are you an enrolled student at USC and do you love Trojan football?

Well, here's the perfect job for you.

The football program is looking for student videographers to film practices and games during the spring, fall training camp and 2010 season. Contact director of video operations Eric Espinoza via email if interested.

Experience working with digital video cameras and knowledge of football is recommended but not required.

On the radio

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 2:38 PM | 1 Comment

Coach Lane Kiffin taped an interview this afternoon that will appear on the Knoxville (Tenn.) radio station "Sports Animal 990" on Wednesday morning between 7 and 9 a.m. Pacific. Listen live here.

Top draw

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 1:55 PM | No Comments

With an average of 84,799 fans per home game last season, USC ranked No. 11 in the 2009 NCAA attendance figures, which were released Monday. The Trojans' attendance mark at the Coliseum led the Pac-10 for the seventh consecutive season.

Lights, camera, action

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 1:26 PM | 1 Comment

Two monstrous soundstages, part of the new School of Cinematic Arts complex, undergo finishing touches as workers close out construction on the structures that stand adjacent to Heritage Hall. The entire complex, including the majestic main building that opened in January 2009, will have cost an estimated $165 million by the time construction wraps up in the coming months.

Check out this panoramic view (click to expand) of the recently completed production services building (left) and two soundstages (right) for the School of Cinematic Arts. Heritage Hall sits next to the new complex on USC's campus.

Summer camp dates

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 12:43 PM | 1 Comment

The dates for the 2010 Trojan Football Camps -- for kids ranging from 3rd through 12th grade, along with adults -- are below. Registration info will be coming later.

Kicking camp • June 11 (9th-12th graders)
Offensive and defensive linemen camp • June 12 (9th-12th graders)
Skills camp • June 13 (9th-12th graders)
Football 101 • June 16 (fantasy camp for adults)
7-on-7 camp • June 19 and 20 (9th-12th graders)
Youth camp • June 21 (3rd-8th graders)
Rising stars camp • June 23-24 (11th-12th graders)

Head to the Clinic

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 11:47 AM | No Comments

All high school and junior college coaches -- and even casual USC football fans -- are invited to the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic on April 9-10 at the Galen Center. The event has sold out in each of the previous six seasons, so be sure to register now before it's too late.

Get all the info, including hotel and registration information, here.

Cone work

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 10:48 AM | No Comments

Wideout De'Von Flournoy glides around the cones of the pro agility drill during this morning's workout on Howard Jones Field.

Mays looking to fly through the 40

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 10:04 AM | No Comments

With the NFL Combine starting this week, USC's Taylor Mays is out to prove something.

Or at least that's what the media is saying. ESPN's John Clayton, considered a preeminent source for NFL news, said Mays' draft stock could jump significantly if he runs a sub-4.4 40-yard dash in Indianapolis this weekend:

If Mays runs a sub-4.4 40, he could jump back into the top 10 overall, but he's currently expected to be drafted in the middle of the first round. Physically, Mays is a freak. He's 6-foot-3, 231 pounds, and a sub-4.4 40 could be huge in improving his stock.... Mays needs a fluid workout and a great 40 time to come closer to the perceptions scouts had of him in 2009.

Believe it or not, but a 4.4 40 might actually be slow for Mays. Last March, the safety ran a blazing 4.25 during USC's offseason testing, earning him the title of fastest Trojan to play for former coach Pete Carroll.

Quiet on the set

By Jordan Moore on February 23, 2010 9:29 AM | No Comments

It's officially the slowest, quietest time of the year for the Trojan football machine.

The recruiting bonanza ended three weeks ago and Spring Practice isn't for more than a month, producing quite the lull in a program that's usually churning at a frenetic pace. February is known as the calmest time on the sports calendar, and it couldn't be truer for the Trojans.

Coaches, who work at least 100-hour weeks during the season, are logging a layman's 40-hour schedule this time of the year, and they spend their time breaking down film, preparing for Spring Practice, making recruiting calls and writing letters to the prospects in the Class of 2011.

A beautiful day

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 4:10 PM | 2 Comments

On another postcard-perfect 70-degree day at USC, Doheny Library, one of the campus landmarks, sits as the backdrop to cardinal and gold flowers and a flowing fountain.

Diamond cutters

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 3:28 PM | No Comments

The USC baseball team will face off against UCLA at Dodger Stadium on Sunday at 2 p.m., taking part in a special four-team mini tournament on the legendary diamond in Chavez Ravine. Tickets cost just $5 and can be purchased here.

Check out this short video containing interviews with the players about the matchup and get all the pertinent info about the special game here.

Buy tickets here.

For a good read

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 2:44 PM | No Comments

Don't miss this inspiring feature on NFL-bound tailback Stafon Johnson, from Yahoo Sports. Thanks to RipsIt reader Steve White for passing it along.

Tentative times set

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 2:17 PM | 3 Comments

Tentatively, the start times for workouts during Spring Practice 2010 will be 4 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on Saturdays. Here's the full Spring Practice schedule.

Spring Practice schedule

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 1:58 PM | 1 Comment

The Spring Practice schedule is here.

Spring Practice 2010 will span 33 days, beginning with the first workout on March 30 and going until the Trojan Huddle at the Coliseum on May 1. The 15 practices will fall every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday for five consecutive weeks.

The exact start times will be released later. Workouts will be conducted on Howard Jones Field, except for the Trojan Huddle at the Coliseum on May 1. Here's a look at the schedule for Spring Practice 2010 (subject to change):

Tuesday, March 30 • Practice #1
Thursday, April 1 • Practice #2
Saturday, April 3 • Practice #3
Tuesday, April 6 • Practice #4
Thursday, April 8 • Practice #5
Saturday, April 10 • Practice #6
Tuesday, April 13 • Practice #7
Thursday, April 15 • Practice #8
Saturday, April 17 • Practice #9
Tuesday, April 20 • Practice #10
Thursday, April 22 • Practice #11
Saturday, April 24 • Practice #12
Tuesday, April 27 • Practice #13
Thursday, April 29 • Practice #14
Saturday, May 1 • Trojan Huddle (Coliseum)

This week in USC sports

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 12:51 PM | No Comments

Find out what happened in Trojan athletics during the past seven days:

The men's basketball team split its games at the two Washington schools this weekend and now sits 1.5 games out of first place in the Pac-10.
Ending a five-game losing streak, the women's basketball team topped Washington, 56-51, on Saturday night at the Galen Center.
To open the 2010 season, the baseball team took two of three from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The Trojans will play their home opener on Tuesday at 6 p.m. against Loyola Marymount.
The No. 2-ranked women's water polo team beat No. 11 UC Irvine, 15-5, on Saturday.
After a 3-2 comeback win over Pacific on Friday, the No. 3 men's volleyball team fell, 3-1, to No. 2 Stanford on Saturday at the Galen Center.
The fifth-ranked men's tennis team toppled No. 15 Pepperdine, 6-1, on Friday in Malibu.

USC's Leonard Washington shoots during the Trojans 67-64 win at Washington on Thursday.

Combine time

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 11:56 AM | No Comments

The NFL Combine gets started Wednesday when the first wave of pro prospects -- specialists, offensive linemen and tight ends -- arrive in Indianapolis and begin the intense four-day process that includes tests, medical exams, interviews and workouts. The Combine will run through Tuesday, March 2.

Check out the schedule, and here's a look at the 11 Trojans who were invited this year:

OL Charles Brown
OT Jeff Byers
DE Everson Griffen
TB Stafon Johnson
S Taylor Mays
TE Anthony McCoy
TB Joe McKnight
OL Alex Parsons
DB Josh Pinkard
CB Kevin Thomas
WR Damian Williams

Swim With Mike on April 17

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 11:17 AM | No Comments

The 30th annual Swim With Mike, a fundraiser for scholarships for physically challenged athletes, will take place April 17 at USC's McDonald's Swim Stadium. The event has raised $9.7 million since its inception, and $770,000 in scholarships was awarded in 2009-10.

Sprinting into spring

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 10:37 AM | No Comments

Sprints took center stage during this morning's workouts, as players went through sprint form drills before getting electronically tested on 20-yard dashes. After about a half-hour of on-field work, the Trojans then went into the weight room for an upper-body lifting circuit.

Fullback Stanley Havili goes through sprint drills on Howard Jones Field this morning during the on-field portion of the workout.

Defensive lineman Derek Simmons labors through timed 20-yard dashes on Howard Jones Field during this morning's workouts.

Pro Day set for March 31

By Jordan Moore on February 22, 2010 9:44 AM | 1 Comment

USC's Pro Day, the annual showcase for NFL-bound Trojans, is scheduled for March 31 on Cromwell Field.

The 2010 staff

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 12:52 PM | 7 Comments

About a month after Lane Kiffin's hiring, here's what the 2010 coaching staff looks like as of now, with a handful of positions yet to be filled (click on name for bios on the new coaches):

Head coach Lane Kiffin
Defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin
Assistant coach Ed Orgeron
Assistant coach Joe Barry
Assistant coach Willie Mack Garza
Assistant coach James Cregg
Assistant coach Clay Helton
Assistant coach John Morton
Assistant coach Todd McNair
Offensive graduate assistant Justin Mesa

Coaches clinic

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 12:06 PM | No Comments

All high school and junior college coaches -- and even casual USC football fans -- are invited to the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic on April 9-10 at the Galen Center. The event has sold out in each of the previous six seasons, so be sure to register now before it's too late.

Get all the info, including hotel and registration information, here.

Hoops in action

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 11:44 AM | No Comments

The USC men's hoops team isn't letting its postseason fate ruin its regular season.

Following Thursday night's shocking 67-64 win at Washington, the Trojans now sit just a half-game behind California for first place in the Pac-10. With its sights set on the conference's regular season title, USC plays at Washington State on Saturday at 2 p.m. before closing out the season with a pair of games at home against the Oregon schools next week and then a pair on the road against the Arizona schools in the first week of March.

Also, the USC women's basketball team hosts Washington on Saturday at 8 p.m. at the Galen Center. Wear pink and get in free to the game.

Assisting in training

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 11:27 AM | No Comments

We received a question wondering whether first-year head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus has a staff of assistants. He has a team of four assistants who aid in football training: Bryan Bailey, Wendell Richards, Gary Hyman and Tatyana Obukhova.

All four assistants are carryovers from the staff of previous head strength and conditioning coach Chris Carlisle.

Before Thursday's 6 a.m. workout, head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus chats with assistants (from left to right) Bryan Bailey, Wendell Richards, Tatyana Obukhova and Gary Hyman.

Staff changes

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 11:07 AM | 1 Comment

With the Lane Kiffin regime still taking shape in Heritage Hall, staff turnover has been the name of the game during the past month-plus. Here's a look at how the 2009 coaching staff has shaken out through the transition (as of now):

Still at USC
WR coach John Morton
RB coach Todd McNair
Offensive graduate assistant Justin Mesa

Not retained for new staff
OL coach Pat Ruel
TE coach Brennan Carroll
DL coach Jethro Franklin
DB coach Rocky Seto (later took a job with the Seattle Seahawks)

Departed USC for the Seattle Seahawks
Head coach Pete Carroll
QB coach Jeremy Bates
LB coach Ken Norton
Special teams coordinator Brian Schneider
Defensive graduate assistant Kris Richard
Head strength and conditioning coach Chris Carlisle

USC-Hawaii kickoff time set

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 10:28 AM | No Comments

USC's season opener at Hawaii -- set for Thursday, Sept. 2 and to be televised nationally on ESPN -- will kick off at 5 p.m. in Honolulu (8 p.m. Pacific), the Warriors athletic department announced this week.

One year later, Davidson's impact lives on

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 9:57 AM | 2 Comments

One year ago today, a true Trojan passed away.

Ryan Davidson, a teenager from Wisconsin who captured the hearts and minds of USC players, coaches and fans as he courageously fought several bouts of cancer, died on his 16th birthday on Feb. 19, 2009, ending a nearly 10-year-long battle that saw four brain surgeries and 60 rounds of radiation treatment.

"He will always bring us joy," former USC coach Pete Carroll said at Davidson's memorial service in Wisconsin last February. "We were the ones who were blessed by our relationship and friendship with Ryan. He will always be with us and always be a special part of our family."

Read a story about Davidson's memorial service and also be sure to visit Davidson's CaringBridge site.

Inside and out

By Jordan Moore on February 19, 2010 9:24 AM | 2 Comments

Head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus encourages wideout Brandon Carswell through pushups during the indoor portion of this morning's workout.

Players practice the appropriate form for the pro agility drill during the outdoor part of this morning's workout.

Clay Helton hired as assistant coach

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 4:29 PM | 1 Comment

Clay Helton, an assistant the past 10 seasons at Memphis who was the Tigers' offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach the last 3 years, has been named an assistant coach at USC, new Trojan head coach Lane Kiffin announced today.

Helton, 37, began his 10-year (2000-09) Memphis career as the running backs coach for 3 seasons, then coached the Tigers' receivers for the next 4 seasons before becoming the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.

Among the Tigers' running backs he tutored was school rushing/scoring/all-purpose running recordholder DeAngelo Williams, who went on to finish seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2005 and be an NFL first round selection.

As the receivers coach, he produced a pair of Conference USA All-Freshman picks in Maurice Jones (2005) and Duke Calhoun (2006), as well as the school's No. 4 all-time receptions leader in Ryan Scott. In 2003, Memphis set school season records for receptions and receiving yardage.

As the Tigers' offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, the 2007 and 2008 offenses were among the top 6 in school history in total yards and points. Both squads were ranked in the top 26 nationally in total offense. Quarterback Martin Hankins became Memphis' No. 2 career passer and set single season records for completions, passing yards and touchdown passes in 2007. In 2009, Curtis Steele had his second consecutive season with 1,000 rushing yards, Calhoun became the school's all-time leading receiver and Carlos Singleton set the career mark for receiving touchdowns.

Memphis played in 5 bowls during Helton's time: the 2003 and 2007 New Orleans Bowls, 2004 GMAC Bowl, 2005 Motor City Bowl and 2008 St. Petersburg Bowl.

Helton was hired as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Arkansas State after the 2009 season, but was there just 2 months before coming to USC.

Read more about Helton here.

Kiffin also announced that assistant coaches Jethro Franklin and Brennan Carroll were not retained.

On the schedule

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 12:18 PM | No Comments

The 2010 season is still more than six months away, but why not take a look at what lies ahead?

The Trojans' 13-game schedule -- featuring a bonus contest because of their trip to Hawaii -- contains six home games and seven away games (though one roadie is just 14 miles away at the Rose Bowl). USC's lone bye falls almost exactly halfway through the campaign.

As of now, only the Trojans' season-opening matchup at Hawaii on Thursday, Sept. 2 is set for TV, with it being televised nationally on ESPN (kickoff time to be announced). The TV arrangements for the remaining 12 games will be determined either on May 1, when ABC/ESPN makes their picks, or June 1, when FSN makes its selections.

Here's a glance at USC's 2010 schedule:

Sept. 2 • at Hawaii (Thursday), ESPN
Sept. 11 • Virginia
Sept. 18 • at Minnesota
Sept. 25 • at Washington State
Oct. 2 • Washington
Oct. 9 • at Stanford
Oct. 16 • California
Oct. 23 • BYE
Oct. 30 • Oregon
Nov. 6 • Arizona State
Nov. 13 • at Arizona
Nov. 20 • at Oregon State
Nov. 27 • Notre Dame
Dec. 4 • at UCLA

Coming together for the good

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 11:02 AM | No Comments

USC student-athletes, including numerous football players, will participate in Cry Out: A Day of Service and Worship on Saturday at the Galen Center and in L.A. communities. Hosted by Athletes in Action, Cry Out will begin with guest speaker Rudy Carrasco on Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Galen Center before the student-athletes participate in a community outreach during the afternoon. A concert by USC gospel choir "Saved by Grace" will begin at 5 p.m. at the Galen Center.

For more information, e-mail Shalina Clarke.

Looking ahead to 2011

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 9:53 AM | No Comments

It's apparently never too early to plan for the future.

Coaches have been spending a majority of their time since Signing Day two weeks ago evaluating prospects in the Class of 2011. They've been rooted in the War Room watching film of next year's top recruits, beginning to whittle down the lengthy list of potential players to a more manageable, recruit-able size.

Coaches have also been looking at USC film and have begun the self-scouting process in anticipation of Spring Practice next month.

Lane Kiffin Heritage Golf Classic set for April 26

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 9:01 AM | No Comments

Join Coach Lane Kiffin and his entire coaching staff for golf, a dinner and exclusive access to USC football items at the 2010 Lane Kiffin Heritage Golf Classic on April 26 at the Coto de Caza Golf and Racquet Club.

Registration will start at 8:30 a.m., golf will get going at 10 a.m. and dinner will begin at 5 p.m. An awards ceremony, live auction and a talk by Kiffin will follow the meal.

In addition to the live auction during dinner, a silent auction will run throughout the day. Among the auction items will be travel packages to the 2010 USC football games at Hawaii and Minnesota, a trip on the USC team plane to a road game and sideline passes to all of USC's 2010 home games (including the Notre Dame contest).

The tournament is hosted by the Trojan Board of Directors.

For registration information, click here or call 213-740-4155.

Rising to work before the sun

By Jordan Moore on February 18, 2010 7:51 AM | 11 Comments

The high-powered lights were on, a delicate fog hovered over the field and the night sky was still more than a half-hour from giving way to even a glimpse of the sunrise.

Welcome to what players call "the dark side of the morning."

More than half of the active roster -- about 45 players each morning -- make their way out to Howard Jones Field for the four-day-per-week 6 a.m. strength and conditioning sessions, scurrying out at 5:55, cycling through conditioning and agility drills until 6:30 and then finishing out the workout with about 45 minutes in the weight room. A majority of the outdoor portion of the workout occurs under the cloak of night, several minutes before dawn awakes.

"It's bright and early," assistant strength and conditioning coach Tatyana Obukhova said. "Well, not bright, but it is early."

Though the workout begins and ends before almost the entire USC student population is out of bed, the effusive energy present would make you think otherwise. Bellowing voices, bountiful clapping and laborious breathing create a constant, vibrant noise that serves as the alarm clock for these Trojans as the night turns to morning toward the end of the workout.

But why do so many players get their workouts in so early? Several position groups -- offensive linemen, quarterbacks and special-teamers -- have made the pre-dawn session their traditional home, while many other players have such a jam-packed class schedule that 6 a.m. is the only time they can work out.

The Trojans, many of whom wore leggings and long sleeves during this morning's workout, are nearing the midpoint of their winter strength and conditioning program, with just a little more than a month until the start of Spring Practice 2010.

Check out some photos from this morning's 6 a.m. workout on Howard Jones Field:

With the lights on and dew on the grass, cornerback Byron Moore jogs out onto Howard Jones Field a few minutes before this morning's 6 a.m. strength and conditioning session.

It's 5:58 a.m., and players wait to begin this morning's 6 a.m. workout.

Players sprint off the line during warm-ups.

Under a night sky and the bright field lights, head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus watches over this morning's 6 a.m. workout.

The Trojans squat down in unison as part of a stretch.

Players bound through warm-up drills.

Head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus watches as the Trojans go through warm-up exercises.

Matt Barkley and his teammates leap around a rope as part of an agility exercise.

Doing an abdominal exercise, tight end Rhett Ellison lifts a medicine ball toward defensive end Wes Horton.

Mitch Mustain hops over bags.

Players dash through 20-yard sprints as the sky features a dawn-created purple tinge.

Offensive lineman Butch Lewis, pulling a weight sled, charges off the line.

With dawn settling in over Howard Jones Field, head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus gives final instructions to the Trojans at the end of the workout.

The Trojans gather for a final breakdown before heading into the weight room for the second half of the morning workout.

High praises for new strength coach Ausmus

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 3:06 PM | 3 Comments

New head strength and conditioning coach Aaron Ausmus has been on the job for just a few weeks, but he's already made a strong first impression.

Players, who are in their fourth week of the offseason program, have been giving rave reviews concerning their new strength coach, praising his fresh energy, the new-and-improved workout plan and the team bonding that's occurring. Check out the Trojans' acclaims for Ausmus:

Center Kristofer O'Dowd: "I'm real fired up. You can just tell there's a new vibe in the weight room -- everyone's reacting well to the workouts. Everybody has really stepped in and believed in his system. There's high energy every day."
Quarterback Matt Barkley: "I think that he brings a lot of intensity and vibrancy to our workouts. He pushes us so much and we're leaving every workout feeling dead tired. It's awesome."
Linebacker Devon Kennard: "I like how he lays the workouts out -- legs one day, upper body the next, and conditioning on the days we do upper body. How he has the workouts set up is really cool. It keeps us fresh so we can get the most out of them."
Defensive lineman Armond Armstead: "He's always intense and doesn't let us slack off at all. We've got to work hard all the time. He gets on us and pushes us hard. He's a really good coach and what he does makes a lot of sense. And the best part is that I feel like I'm getting better."
Safety Drew McAllister: "We're focusing a lot more on flexibility and the work is a lot more position-specific. The way his program has been so far, we're definitely moving toward getting better."
Linebacker Chris Galippo: "He's awesome. The guys are definitely buying in. His workout plan of doing legs one day and upper body the next is extremely injury-preventative."
Kicker Joe Houston: "Since he's been here, I've lost weight but gotten stronger and faster. He's doing things right. He's so hands-on, which we all really like. There's some really good energy, and he makes it more team-oriented. I can't say enough good things about him."
Offensive lineman Michael Reardon: "He's a motivator. I absolutely love the guy. He's brought us closer together than ever before. The energy is different. It's been awesome."
Tight end Blake Ayles: "He's a real active and enthusiastic guy. He's like a motor -- always running. And he's a great communicator. I really feel like I'm getting a lot better."

Wear pink, get in free

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 2:04 PM | No Comments

In conjunction with the nationwide "Pink Zone" initiative, the USC women's basketball team is slated to promote breast cancer awareness during this Saturday's home game against Washington. Fans are encouraged get in on the action as well by wearing pink to the 8 p.m. game at the Galen Center on Saturday -- wear pink on Saturday and get in free!

Going to Dodger Stadium

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 1:18 PM | No Comments

The USC baseball team will face off against UCLA at Dodger Stadium on Feb. 28 at 2 p.m., taking part in a special four-team mini tournament on the legendary diamond in Chavez Ravine. Tickets cost just $5 and can be purchased here.

Check out this short video containing interviews with the players about the matchup and get all the pertinent info about the special game here.

Successful operation for Sanchez

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 12:36 PM | No Comments

Mark Sanchez made it out of a successful knee surgery that went "exceptionally well" this morning, according to his Twitter page.

"Out of surgery. Doc says it went exceptionally well. Thx to Dr Montgomery. Thx to family, friends & tweeps for the love and well wishes," Sanchez wrote on Twitter today.

Photo shoot

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 11:42 AM | No Comments

Among the trophies in Heritage Hall this morning, Coach Lane Kiffin gets photographed for an upcoming Sporting News feature.

Renew now for 2010 season tickets

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 11:04 AM | No Comments

USC football season ticket renewal applications for the 2010 season are now available online. Applications will be accepted through March 26.

Get more info here.

Trojan Voices: Jon Hackett

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 10:39 AM | No Comments

The latest installment of "Trojan Voices" has been posted, this one giving you a closer look at men's volleyball star Jon Hackett.

Also, check out the previous episodes of the USC athlete profiles:

Sanchez goes under the knife

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 9:46 AM | 1 Comment

Mark Sanchez, arguably the most successful rookie quarterback ever out of USC, is undergoing minor knee surgery today to repair a ligament in his left knee. The Jets expect their starter to be ready for training camp in July.

Kiffin on SportsCenter

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 9:26 AM | 1 Comment

Don't miss the Lane Kiffin interview from SportsCenter on Tuesday night:

Laying down the Gauntlet

By Jordan Moore on February 17, 2010 8:54 AM | 2 Comments

USC is getting closer and closer to capturing an unprecedented third consecutive Gauntlet Trophy.

With the Trojans needing only 15 points out of a remaining 47.5 on the table in the annual crosstown rivalry competition, USC could be on its way to clinching its sixth title in the nine-year history of the trophy. Fifteen scheduled competitions remain between the Trojans and Bruins, and USC currently holds a 42.5-25 lead; 57.5 points are needed to capture the Gauntlet Trophy.

Ten points are awarded in football, women's volleyball and men's and women's basketball, while winner of the season series in the 14 other common sports receive five points each. Here's a look at the current scoreboard and the entire schedule of the 2009-10 USC-UCLA rivalry matchups:

SCORING                      USC 42.5, UCLA 25
Football                         USC       10
Women's Volleyball        UCLA   10
Women's Soccer           UCLA   5
Men's Water Polo           USC       5
Women's Cross Country UCLA      5
Men's Basketball          USC       10
Women's Basketball       Both       5
Women's Swimming       USC       5
Women's Rowing
Baseball
Men's Volleyball           USC       2.5
Men's Track and Field
Women's Track and Field
Men's Golf
Women's Golf
Men's Tennis               USC       2.5
Women's Tennis
Women's Water Polo   USC       2.5

10 points awarded for Football, W Volleyball, M/W Basketball
5 points awarded for all other sports
57.5 points needed to clinch Crosstown Gauntlet trophy

Schedule of the 2009-10 USC-UCLA rivalry matchups:

Football
Nov. 28 at USC - USC 28-7

Women's Volleyball
Oct. 19 at UCLA - UCLA 3-0
Nov. 6 at USC - UCLA 3-2

Women's Soccer
Oct. 30 at UCLA - UCLA 2-1

Men's Water Polo
Sept. 20 at NorCal Tourney - UCLA 5-4
Oct. 11 at SoCal Tourney - USC 9-8
Nov. 6 at UCLA - USC 7-6
Nov. 28 at MPSF Champs - UCLA 10-6
Dec. 6 at NCAA Champs - USC 7-6

Women's Cross Country
Oct. 30 at Pac-10 Champs - UCLA 7th, USC 9th

Men's Basketball
Jan. 16 at UCLA - USC 67-46
Feb. 14 at USC - USC 68-64

Women's Basketball
Jan. 17 at USC - USC 70-63
Feb. 13 at UCLA - UCLA 74-56

Women's Swimming
Feb. 13 at UCLA - USC 164.5-135.5

Women's Rowing
May 1 at USC

Baseball
Feb. 28 at Dodger Stadium
May 14 at UCLA
May 15 at UCLA
May 16 at UCLA

Men's Volleyball
Jan. 13 at UCLA - USC 3-1
April 3 at USC

Men's Track and Field
May 1 at UCLA

Women's Track and Field
May 1 at UCLA

Men's Golf
April 26-28 at Pac-10 Champs

Women's Golf
April 19-21 at Pac-10 Champs

Men's Tennis
Feb. 14 at ITA Indoor Champs - USC 4-0
March 3 at UCLA
April 16 at USC

Women's Tennis
March 3 at USC
April 16 at UCLA

Women's Water Polo
Feb. 5 at Stanford Invitational - USC 13-3
April 17 at USC

Just another day at USC

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 4:56 PM | 3 Comments

On a picture-perfect 80-degree winter day in L.A., students roam McCarthy Quad and line its knoll to study, play guitar and throw the frisbee this afternoon.

A father-son moment

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 4:22 PM | 4 Comments

Defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin (left) and his son, head coach Lane Kiffin, conduct an interview with CBS sportscaster Jim Hill in the lobby of Heritage Hall this afternoon. The interview is slated to run Saturday on CBS 2.

Coach of the Year Clinic

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 3:54 PM | No Comments

All high school and junior college coaches -- and even USC football fans -- are invited to the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic on April 9-10 at the Galen Center. The event has sold out in each of the previous six seasons, so be sure to register now before it's too late.

Get all the info, including hotel and registration information, here.

Maualuga on the rebound

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 3:03 PM | 1 Comment

Linebacker Rey Maualuga, who has been embroiled in off-field troubles this offseason and is now in alcohol rehabilitation, visited his family's homeland last week to reach out and make a difference to the children and people of American Somoa. Don't miss this special feature about Maualuga's visit, from SomoanNews.com.

Catching up with Steve Smith

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 2:17 PM | No Comments

Check out this neat interview with USC alum Steve Smith following the 2010 Pro Bowl two weeks ago, courtesy of Scott Kegley of 49ers.com:

USC and the Olympics

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 1:04 PM | 1 Comment

The 2010 Winter Olympic Games are underway in Vancouver, and in rare form, you're not going to find a Trojan among the hundreds of athletes from around the world.

A stunning 391 USC alumni have been Olympians over the years, but only three of those have participated in the Winter Games, and none this year. American figure skater Randy Gardner (1976, 1980), American biathlete Lyle Barber Nelson (1976, 1980, 1984, 1988) and Puerto Rican bobsledder Mike Gonzales (1998, 2002) are the three Trojans who earned a combined eight spots in various Winter Olympics. None of them won medals.

Gonzales was a decathlete on the Trojan track team while in school, while Gardner and Nelson merely attended USC as students.

Click here for a full list of all of USC's Olympians from 1904 to the present.

The 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games, seen here in the opening ceremony on Friday, do not feature a Trojan. Only three USC alumni have participated in the Winter Olympics. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]

Next on SportsCenter

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 12:13 PM | 2 Comments

Coach Lane Kiffin gets interviewed by ESPN's Shelley Smith in Heritage Auditorium this afternoon. The interview will air on "SportsCenter" this afternoon and tonight.

Stars are coming

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 11:06 AM | No Comments

Everything's bigger in Texas? Well, everything's brighter in L.A.

The 2010 NBA All-Star game, conducted in front of a world-record crowd of 108,713 in Arlington, Texas, is now a thing of the past.

It's all about L.A. now.

The 2011 star-studded exhibition game will be played at the Staples Center, less than two miles up the street from USC. So come next February, expect Tinseltown to become a little more dazzling when basketball's brightest stars and hundreds of celebrities descend upon downtown L.A. and the USC area.

The 2010 NBA All-Star game was played in front of a world-record crowd of 108,713 in Cowboys Stadium, but the 2011 All-Star game will be at Staples Center, less than two miles from USC. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]

Malone finds a new NFL home

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 10:28 AM | 1 Comment

Former USC All-American punter Tom Malone signed a two-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks over the weekend, reuniting him with former coach Pete Carroll and putting him on his third NFL squad since graduating after the 2005 season.

A closer look at Mike Garrett

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 9:44 AM | No Comments

Check out this rare inside look into the life and work of athletic director Mike Garrett in an in-depth feature from Sunday's L.A. Times.

Beating the Bruins -- again

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 8:53 AM | 1 Comment

The USC men's basketball team won its third consecutive game against UCLA, capturing a 68-64 victory over the Bruins at the Galen Center on Sunday night.

A must read

By Jordan Moore on February 16, 2010 8:32 AM | No Comments

Don't miss this wide-ranging and interesting three-part Q&A with Coach Lane Kiffin, from the O.C. Register.

Setting trends

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 4:51 PM | 14 Comments

We wanted to take a moment to thank all of our readers for continuing to make USCRipsIt the premier team site in college sports. The Blog shattered records with a whopping 51,000 views on Signing Day last week, undoubtedly setting a benchmark in college football websites and showing another reason why CNBC.com named RipsIt the best all-access blog in sports last November.

So thank you for your readership and support of USCRipsIt -- we couldn't be where we are without you.

Season ticket renewal applications now available

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 2:59 PM | 2 Comments

USC football season ticket renewal applications for the 2010 season are now available online. Applications will be accepted through March 26.

USC faculty and staff renewal applications were already mailed, with a deadline of Feb. 26 for payroll deduction. Paper applications for football season ticket renewals will be mailed on March 1, but fans are encouraged to renew online.

New season tickets, if available, will be sold in late April. Individual home game tickets, if available, will be sold likely in May.

The 2010 Trojan football team, led by new head coach Lane Kiffin, has an outstanding six-game home slate in the Coliseum:

Virginia (Sept. 11)
Washington (Oct. 2)
California (Oct. 16)
Oregon (Oct. 30)
Arizona State (Nov. 6)
Notre Dame (Nov. 27)

Spring Practice agenda coming soon

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 1:35 PM | No Comments

Coaches have finalized the Spring Practice schedule, and it has now been submitted for compliance review. Its official release should come soon.

Preparation for the season

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 11:43 AM | 1 Comment

Linebacker Chris Galippo pushes up a bench press rep, with assistant strength and conditioning coach Wendell Richards spotting during the indoor portion of the morning workouts.

Wideout Jordan Cameron shuffles through agility bags during the outdoor portion of this morning's workouts.

Driving to the win

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 10:44 AM | No Comments

Kicking off the 2010 season, the No. 9 USC women's golf team won the Northrop Grumman Regional Challenge this week, holding off Pepperdine by a slim three-stroke margin. Watch this video recap for highlights and interviews.

Happy birthday

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 10:05 AM | 1 Comment

The tables have turned for Joyce Hirayama.

Hirayama, the all-star administrative assistant who brings in cakes and cookies for the birthdays of all the football coaches, will be celebrating her birthday Saturday, so the staffers have teamed up to get flowers and a card for the 13-year employee in honor of her big day.

Not that we asked, but Hirayama said she's "turning 29 again."

Trojan Voices

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 9:34 AM | No Comments

Check out this cool "Trojan Voices" video with USC point guard Mike Gerrity, who will lead the Trojans into their rivalry matchup against UCLA on Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Galen Center. A limited number of tickets remain, so get yours here before they sell out.

For a good read

By Jordan Moore on February 12, 2010 9:05 AM | No Comments

Check out the second half of an insightful Q&A with Lane Kiffin, from ESPN.com.

Smith wins valuable honor

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 3:07 PM | 2 Comments

Wideout Steve Smith has won the 2009 Top Value Performer Award, an honor that combines on-field stats, a player's salary and fan voting to determine who is worth the most for how much they're paid.

For a good read

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 2:21 PM | No Comments

Check out this interesting Q&A with Lane Kiffin, from ESPN.com.

Kiffin joins Twitter

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 12:51 PM | 1 Comment

Lane Kiffin has taken his first big step into the world of social media as USC head coach.

Kiffin now has an official Twitter page, and he posted his first tweet just minutes ago: "We're very fortunate and excited about continuing the great tradition of Trojan football! Thanks for your continued support."

Follow him here to get the word straight from Kiffin.

Training for success

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 10:51 AM | No Comments

Redshirt freshman cornerback Torin Harris flies through an explosive speed exercise during this morning's strength and conditioning workouts under the guidance of new head strength coach Aaron Ausmus.

Trojans in transition

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 9:58 AM | 4 Comments

With the Lane Kiffin regime still taking shape in Heritage Hall, a lot of staff turnover has occurred during the past month. Here's a look at how the 2009 coaching staff shook out through the transition (as of now):

Still at USC
WR coach John Morton
RB coach Todd McNair
TE coach Brennan Carroll
DL coach Jethro Franklin
Offensive graduate assistant Justin Mesa

Not retained for new staff
OL coach Pat Ruel

Departed USC for the Seattle Seahawks
Head coach Pete Carroll
QB coach Jeremy Bates
LB coach Ken Norton
DB coach Rocky Seto
Special teams coordinator Brian Schneider
Defensive graduate assistant Kris Richard
Head strength and conditioning coach Chris Carlisle

Can't beat free

By Jordan Moore on February 11, 2010 9:25 AM | No Comments

The USC athletic department, in conjunction with Replay Photos, is offering fans one free 9x12 print of various Trojan pictures. Click here to receive yours now.

Spring schedule on its way

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 3:16 PM | No Comments

We've received several questions about the details on the Spring Practice schedule. The coaching staff is in the process of finalizing the dates, and the schedule should be released on the Blog in the next day or two.

Winter weather in L.A.

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 2:07 PM | 1 Comment

With Heritage Hall in the foreground and snow-capped mountains in the background, the L.A. basin rests under clear skies thanks to the recent rains. Sun and a high in the mid-60s are on display today, a similar forecast for each of the next nine days.

For a good read

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 12:57 PM | 3 Comments

Check out this great AOL Fanhouse feature on USC's Frankie Telfort, who was discovered with a rare heart condition that prevents him from playing football.

Quiet office

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 11:46 AM | 1 Comment

Coaches have been in and out of staff meetings all morning, reaching the midpoint of their first full week in the office since Lane Kiffin was announced as USC's head coach exactly four weeks ago. With recruiting all of January and a funky week surrounding Signing Day last week, coaches have been intermittently at Heritage Hall over the last 28 days, so this week has served as a welcomed orientation of sorts.

February -- post-Signing Day -- is traditionally the quietest month for the Trojan football machine, as players churn through offseason workouts and coaches use the time to scout 2010 opponents and script out Spring Practice.

Crosstown clash

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 10:50 AM | No Comments

Only one game out of first place in the Pac-10, the USC men's basketball team hosts UCLA on Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Galen Center. A limited number of tickets remain, so get yours here before they sell out.

Sign of the times

By Jordan Moore on February 10, 2010 9:04 AM | 2 Comments

The Galen Center is in the process of adding a marquee element to its exterior.

Namely, a marquee.

A new programmable LED board, measuring 18-feet-by-32-feet and rising up 100 feet high next to the 110 freeway, is being constructed on the northeast corner of USC's stately arena, with an estimated completion date in late March. The computerized sign board, to be named Tilley Tower in honor of longtime supporter Bill Tilley, will display results, schedules, congratulations and other athletic-related messages.

The $2.3 million project, which is technically part of the Galen Center's original construction plan, was paid for entirely by athletic department fundraising.

An 18-by-32 programmable sign board, designed to display messages from the USC athletic department, is being constructed at the Galen Center and next to the 110 freeway. Completion is set for late March.

The athletic department's new sign board, named the Tilley Tower, rises 100 feet off the ground and is adjacent to the 110 freeway and the Galen Center.

Art and sport combine

By Jordan Moore on February 9, 2010 2:17 PM | No Comments

The Louis Galen "Artletics" exhibition, a showcase of artwork by 18 USC student-athletes in Roski School of Fine Arts classes, will be on display in the Galen Center's Hall of Fame from Thursday through March 22.

The free exhibit, in its fifth year, will be open during athletic events or by appointment. An opening reception, free and open to the public, will be held at noon on Feb. 24.  

Football players Mitch Mustain, Robert Erickson and Scott Stephens have work that will be on display.

The annual exhibition, a collaborative effort of the USC Athletic Department and the USC Gayle Garner Roski School of Fine Arts, highlights the artistic talents of Trojan student-athletes through works in painting, drawing, ceramics, design, and digital and traditional photography.

Civic service

By Jordan Moore on February 9, 2010 2:16 PM | 1 Comment

We apologize for being missing in action so far today. Jury duty has called, so we'll return to normal blogging activity as soon as the Los Angeles County judicial system allows us to.

A well-rounded education

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 4:27 PM | 1 Comment

Mike Robbins, a motivational speaker and former Stanford baseball player, talks to USC student-athletes in the Galen Center Founders Room this afternoon as part of the athletic department's P.O.W.E.R. program, a twice-yearly series designed to develop the athletes beyond their sports -- mentally, socially, academically, emotionally and in terms of life skills. The program, run by the USC athletic department's Student-Athlete Academic Services, stands for "Promoting Overall Wellness, Excellence and Responsibility."

Rivalry renewed

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 3:47 PM | No Comments

With the arena's LED signboards already portending the future -- USC vs. UCLA on Sunday night -- the Trojans wrap up their Monday practice at the Galen Center this afternoon. The crosstown rivalry picks up with a game on USC's floor, to be televised on FSN starting at 7 p.m. Sunday. A limited number of tickets are still available here.

Talking baseball

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 3:02 PM | No Comments

The USC baseball team is going pro.

Well, playing in a pro stadium, at least.

At 2 p.m. on Feb. 28, the Trojans will face off against UCLA at Dodger Stadium, taking part in a special four-team mini tournament on the legendary diamond in Chavez Ravine. Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased here.

Hitting the Howard Jones Links

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 1:57 PM | No Comments

With no courses nearby, members of the USC men's golf team have turned Howard Jones Field into a driving range today, a ritual the squad will employ numerous times during football's offseason. Because Howard Jones and Brian Kennedy fields together cover only about 150 yards, the golfers can only use their short irons.

Calling all coaches

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 12:55 PM | 1 Comment

All high school and junior college coaches -- and even USC football fans -- are invited to the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic on April 9-10 at the Galen Center. The event has sold out in each of the previous six seasons, so be sure to register now before it's too late.

Get all the info, including hotel and registration information, here.

Hoops in review

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 12:42 PM | No Comments

It was time for some lunchtime hoops analysis at the Galen Center today.

Coaches Kevin O'Neill and Michael Cooper addressed the crowd of about 75 fans in the Founders Room for today's Chalk Talk, discussing the past weekend's games and also looking ahead to their respective matchups against UCLA this coming weekend. O'Neill went through game film of the recent California and Stanford wins, as well.

"I thought our guys did a really great job of executing down the stretch," O'Neill told the fans. "We're getting better. Our guys are maturing a lot."

Only one Chalk Talk remains in the 2009-10 season, on March 1 in the Galen Center Founders Room. Lunch begins at 11:30 a.m. and the coaches will speak starting at noon. Walk-ups are accepted for $40 per person.

- Originally published on the Trojan Fever Basketball Blog

Men's basketball coach Kevin O'Neill goes through film from Thursday's USC-Cal game during today's Chalk Talk at the Galen Center.

Women's basketball coach Michael Cooper speaks to the fans at today's Chalk Talk at the Galen Center.

This week in USC sports

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 12:02 PM | No Comments

Find out what happened in Trojan athletics during the last seven days:

The men's hoops team swept the Bay Area schools at home in back-to-back nail-biters this weekend, moving to within one game of first place in the Pac-10. The Trojans host UCLA on Sunday night at the Galen Center.
The women's basketball team lost on the road to both Bay Area schools this weekend and next travel to Westwood to face UCLA on Saturday.
The No. 2-ranked women's water polo team crushed No. 5 UCLA, 13-3, in the third-place match of the Stanford Invitational.
The top-ranked men's tennis team coasted past San Diego and UC Irvine by identical 7-0 scores last week.
Coming off a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat at No. 1 Cal State Northridge on Wednesday, the No. 2-ranked men's volleyball team captured a 3-2 victory at No. 9 UC Santa Barbara on Friday.

Commercialization of the Trojans

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 11:27 AM | No Comments

Not only did four USC alumni appear on the rosters of the two Super Bowl teams, but three Trojans were a part of another key component of Super Sunday.

The commercials.

Troy Polamalu, Reggie Bush and Mark Sanchez all starred in a Super Bowl ad, meaning three-fourths of the commercials predominantly featuring an active NFL player utilized a USC alum (Brett Favre's Hyundai ad was the other). Check out the Super Bowl commercials that employed the Trojans:

Troy Polamalu: "Punxsutawney Polamalu" • TruTV
Reggie Bush: "Lift Off" • NFL
Mark Sanchez: "CBS Cares" • CBS

A taste of medicine

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 10:47 AM | 1 Comment

Wideout Brice Butler goes through medicine ball exercises during this morning's strength and conditioning workouts on Howard Jones Field. Sunday's Super Bowl might've signaled the official end to the 2009 football season, but the Trojans are already working toward the 2010 campaign -- and have been doing so for three weeks now.

Reggie in rare company

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 9:54 AM | 3 Comments

With the New Orleans Saints' win on Sunday, Reggie Bush becomes just the third player ever to win a Super Bowl, a college national championship and a Heisman Trophy, joining fellow USC alum Marcus Allen, who won a Super Bowl with the Oakland Raiders, and Tony Dorsett, who played at Pitt and then won a title with the Dallas Cowboys.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Trojans on Super Sunday

By Jordan Moore on February 8, 2010 9:12 AM | No Comments

The Saints went marching in for the Super Bowl title on Sunday, and three Trojans came marching out with some new championship jewelry.

USC alumni Reggie Bush, Sedrick Ellis and Billy Miller are all on the New Orleans roster, with Bush and Ellis starting and playing key roles in the Saints' 31-17 win over the Colts at Miami's Sun Life Stadium. Check out the Trojans' stats from the big game:

Tailback Reggie Bush (Saints) logged 63 yards of offense, running five times for 25 yards and catching four passes for 38 yards.
Defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis (Saints) had three tackles, including one for loss.
Tight end Billy Miller has been on the Saints' injured reserved list.
Defensive lineman Fili Moala (Colts) was inactive.

Reggie Bush accounted for 63 yards of offense in the Saints' 31-17 Super Bowl win on Sunday. [Photo courtesy of Getty Images]

Trojans in the Super Bowl

By Jordan Moore on February 5, 2010 12:06 PM | 1 Comment

At least one Trojan will have a Super Bowl ring to show off the next time he comes around Heritage Hall.

A combined four USC alumni are on the rosters of the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts, with three Trojans on the Saints and one on the Colts. So if your rooting interests are still up in the air, the Saints, with a 3-to-1 advantage, should be tugging at a Trojan fan's heartstrings. Here's the key info for Super Bowl XLIV on Sunday:

New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts
Super Bowl XLIV • Miami
Sunday at 3:25 p.m. (CBS)
Saints: RB Reggie Bush, DL Sedrick Ellis, TE Billy Miller (on injured reserve)
Colts: DL Fili Moala

The All-Trojan squad

By Jordan Moore on February 5, 2010 10:23 AM | 15 Comments

With the NFL season coming to a close with the Super Bowl on Sunday, we figured it'd be an ideal time to select an all-star team of Trojans currently playing in the League. Check out this star-packed squad of USC alumni and then share your thoughts by submitting a comment:

Offense
QB Carson Palmer
RB Reggie Bush
RB LenDale White
WR Steve Smith
WR Dwayne Jarrett
TE Fred Davis
OT Sam Baker
OG Chilo Rachal
C Ryan Kalil
OG Deuce Lutui
OT Winston Justice

Defense
DE Frostee Rucker
DT Mike Patterson
DT Sedrick Ellis
DE Lawrence Jackson
LB Brian Cushing
LB Lofa Tatupu
LB Keith Rivers
CB Terrell Thomas
S Troy Polamalu
S Kevin Ellison
CB Cary Harris

Special teams
K David Buehler

Time off

By Jordan Moore on February 5, 2010 9:04 AM | No Comments

Following the exhausting few days surrounding Signing Day on Wednesday and an arduous month of recruiting, coaches have received today and the rest of the weekend off from football. They'll return to work Monday, refreshed from their first days off since immediately after the bowl more than a month ago.

Ausmus named head strength coach

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 4:51 PM | 2 Comments

Aaron Ausmus, a former USC assistant who went on to lead strength and conditioning programs at four schools, has returned to the Trojans as head strength and conditioning coach, athletic director Mike Garrett announced today.

In 2009, the 35-year-old Ausmus was director of strength and conditioning at Tennessee, where he started his coaching career as a graduate assistant in 1998-99 and then as a part-time assistant in 2000. He was a two-time All-American shot-putter for the Volunteers in 1994-98, including winning the 1997 NCAA indoor shot put title.

Ausmus was an assistant strength and conditioning coach at USC in 2001-03. He went on to be the head strength and conditioning coach at Idaho (2004), Mississippi (2005-07) and North Texas (2008).

Up close with the hoops team

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 4:29 PM | No Comments

Tonight's USC-California men's basketball game won't be televised, but you can still feel like you're in the stands at the Galen Center.

Or maybe even a little closer.

Follow along through the Trojan Fever Basketball Blog starting before tonight's 7:30 p.m. tipoff through the end of the matchup. We'll bring to the basketball blog the same style of coverage you've seen on USCRipsIt, so be sure to tune in for this exclusive, entertaining and behind-the-scenes look into the Trojan hoops team for its game tonight against Pac-10 rival Cal.

Hit the links

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 3:31 PM | No Comments

The No. 14 USC women's golf team, winner of two national titles in the last seven seasons, will play in its only local tournament of the year when it hosts the Northrup Grumman Regional Challenge at the Palos Verdes Golf Club on Monday through Wednesday next week. Head on out to support the Women of Troy as they officially kick off the 2010 season.

Hoops in action

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 3:21 PM | No Comments

The Trojan hoops team hosts California and Stanford this weekend at the Galen Center. Get your tickets to both games online or at the gate:

Tonight vs. Cal, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday vs. Stanford, 4:30 p.m.

Local hall of fame welcomes 17 Trojans

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 2:58 PM | No Comments

Seventeen Trojans have been inducted into the 55-member inaugural 2010 class of the Los Angeles High School Sports Hall of Fame. The 17 Trojans either competed or coached at USC or attended the university at some point after prepping at a high school in the Los Angeles City Section.

The Trojan inductees and their sport (with high school), listed alphabetically, are:

Lee Barnes, track and field (Hollywood HS)
Jack Beckner, gymnastics (Franklin HS)
Ricky Bell, football (Fremont HS)
Cynthia Cooper, basketball (Locke HS)
Lillian Copeland, track and field (Los Angeles HS)
Sheila Cornell-Douty, softball (Taft HS)
Rod Dedeaux, coach (Hollywood HS)
Charles Dumas, contributor (Jefferson HS)
Harry Edelson, coach (Jefferson HS)
Bob Falkenburg, tennis (Fairfax HS)
John Ferraro, contributor (Bell HS)
Mike Garrett, football (Roosevelt HS)
Alex Hannum, coach (Hamilton HS)
Sammy Lee, aquatics (Franklin HS)
Mel Patton, track and field (University HS)
Makoto Sakamoto, gymnastics (Los Angeles HS)
Tex Winter, coach (Huntington Park HS)

To be considered for induction, a candidate must be at least 35 years old and a graduate of an L.A. City high school. High school, collegiate and professional achievements were considered by a selection committee comprising L.A. Unified School District administrators and experts in sports history.

An induction ceremony is planned for early next year. A permanent exhibit is being planned.

The reason why

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 2:33 PM | 2 Comments

We've received several questions about prospects who have announced their commitments to USC but are not written about on this site. As the team's official site, we are bound by NCAA rules and therefore not permitted to mention a recruit until he sends in a signed letter of intent, which then must be approved by the athletic department.

So continue stay with USCRipsIt for the latest info as it becomes official.

In good position

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 1:55 PM | No Comments

Here's a position-by-position breakdown of the Class of 2010, as of now:

Defensive backs (5): Patrick Hall, Dion Bailey, Anthony Brown, Nickell Robey, Demetrius Wright
Wide receivers (4): Dillon Baxter, Kyle Prater, Markeith Ambles, Robert Woods
Tight ends (3): Xavier Grimble, Randall Telfer, Christian Thomas
Linebackers (2): Hayes Pullard, Glen Stanley
Offensive linemen (1): Giovanni Di Poalo
Running back (1): D.J. Morgan
Quarterback (1): Jessie Scroggins
Defensive line (1): George Uko
Fullback (1): Soma Vainuku

Coach of the Year Clinic

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 1:38 PM | No Comments

Calling all high school coaches -- the 7th Annual USC/Nike Coach of the Year Clinic will be April 9-10 at the Galen Center. Hosted by the Trojan coaching staff, guest speakers will include Oregon's Chip Kelly, Harvard's Tim Murphy and other prominent coaches. Get all the info here, and print out the registration form here. For questions, please e-mail clinic director Mark Jackson.

The clinic is open to coaches of all levels and any fans interested in learning from the new coaching staff.

Local flair

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 1:23 PM | No Comments

Here's a hometown breakdown of the Class of 2010, as of now:

California (14): WR Dillon Baxter, DB Patrick Hall, DB Dion Bailey, DB Anthony Brown, OL Giovanni Di Paolo, RB D.J. Morgan, LB Hayes Pullard, QB Jesse Scroggins, TE Randall Telfer, TE Christian Thomas, DT George Uko, FB Soma Vainuku, WR Robert Woods, DB Demetrius Wright
Florida (2): DB Nickell Robey, LB Glen Stanley
Nevada (1): TE Xavier Grimble
Illinois (1): WR Kyle Prater
Georgia (1): WR Markeith Ambles

Top dogs: USC's recruiting class named No. 1

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 12:44 PM | 5 Comments

It didn't take long for Lane Kiffin to get the Trojans to No. 1 in the nation.

Three weeks, to be exact.

USC's new head coach, hired Jan. 12, has seemingly been on top of the world since Wednesday night, when the Trojan recruiting class was named the nation's best by Rivals.com following Signing Day 2010.

"This is beyond exciting for the program and the entire Trojan Family," Kiffin said. "The future looks extremely bright for USC."

Besides the No. 1 ranking, the Trojans' 2010 recruiting haul has a drastically higher average star rating than any other program in the country, with a mean of 4.20 stars per prospect on Rivals.com. No other school has an average over 4 stars.

USC has signed two of the top four overall prospects on Scout.com (WR Robert Woods and WR Kyle Prater), as well as two of the top six overall prospects on Rivals.com (WR Kyle Prater and WR Robert Woods).

The most impressive compilation of recruits comes in the offensive skill positions, with four five-star wideouts, three top-of-the-line tight ends, a stud quarterback, a top tailback and a No. 1 fullback.

"This is one of the best collections of skill players in one class we've ever seen anywhere," Kiffin said.

The Trojans have signed eight players in the top 3 of their positions on Rivals.com, including five players rated No. 1 at their position. A total of 13 players in the 19-member class are ranked in the top 9 in their position by Rivals.com.

"We couldn't be more excited for what came together on Signing Day," Kiffin said. "USC's back at No. 1. Things are looking very good for the future of this program."

The class right now

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 11:52 AM | No Comments

With Soma Vainuku's inclusion, here's the as-of-now list of 19 signees in the Class of 2010 (click on the name for a full bio):

The newest Trojan: FB Soma Vainuku

By Jordan Moore on February 4, 2010 11:41 AM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Soma Vainuku. Here's his bio:

Soma Vainuku
Fullback
Eureka, Calif. (Eureka HS) • 6-2, 255

The facts on Soma Vainuku...

Starred at linebacker and fullback as a senior in 2009, earning honors such as Super Prep All-Farwest, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Medium Schools first team and All-Humboldt-Del Norte Big Four League first team
Had 2,202 yards on 252 carries (8.7 avg.) with 38 TDs on offense and 14 tackles, 1 interception and 1 forced fumbled on defense in 2009
Eureka won the 2009 CIF North Coast Division II title
As a junior in 2008, he had 800 rushing yards with 14 TDs on offense and 34 tackles, 1 interception and 1 forced fumble on defense
As a sophomore in 2007, he had 1,500 rushing yards with 27 TDs
His father was a rugby star in Tonga
His cousin is former USC All-American (2005-08) and current Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Rey Maualuga

Signing Day 2010 in review

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 9:48 PM | No Comments

Our 38 continuous hours of Signing Day coverage now comes to a close, rounding out an eventful two days for the Trojan football program. Check out USCRipsIt's must-see stories and videos surrounding Signing Day 2010:

The current list of 18 signees in the Class of 2010
Watch them in action: Highlight reels of the signees
See it again: Kiffin's Signing Day press conference
Honoring the newest Trojans: Recruiting celebration at the Galen Center
Receiving some good gifts: A high-powered class of skill players
Signing Day glossary: Key terms to know
First one in: NLI No. 1 arrives at 4:06 a.m.
Calm before it all: A quiet office before the buzz of Signing Day
Working into the night: Coaches hit up the phones deep into Signing Day eve

Honoring the newest Trojans

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 9:11 PM | No Comments

The USC athletic department hosted its annual recruiting celebration banquet tonight at the Galen Center, where more than 500 supporters came out to commemorate USC's Class of 2010 in conjunction with the Trojan coaching staff.

More than 500 supporters fill the floor of the Galen Center for the 2010 recruiting celebration banquet tonight.

Coach Lane Kiffin introduces the newest Trojans to the crowd of 500 during tonight's recruiting celebration at the Galen Center.

A night to celebrate

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 6:18 PM | 7 Comments

To wrap up a marathon day that started at 4 a.m. with the first signed letter of intent, coaches are heading over to the Galen Center Founders Room to host the annual recruiting celebration banquet for athletic department support group members. The event includes dinner, video and presentations by all the coaches to officially introduce the newest crop of Trojans.

Watch them in action

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 6:11 PM | No Comments

See high school highlight videos for each of the Trojans' 18 signees on USCRipsIt's special Signing Day page. Thanks to the Eric Espinoza, Dave Scott, Rich Rodriguez, Mark Haas and Rob McPherson of the USC Video Operations and Video Production offices for their work in editing the clips.

As the class stands now

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:46 PM | 2 Comments

Currently, USC has officially announced the following 18 signees in the Class of 2010, though Coach Lane Kiffin said a few more prospects should be added to the batch within the next day or so.

"It's not complete yet," Kiffin said tonight. "We have a very thorough process once we get the letters, going through compliance and university policies, before we're able to release them.

"You guys will see a number of kids added shortly."

In the meantime, here's the as-of-now list of 18 signees in the Class of 2010 (click on the name for a full bio):

The newest Trojan: LB Hayes Pullard

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:39 PM | 3 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Hayes Pullard. Here's his bio:

Hayes Pullard
Linebacker
Inglewood (Crenshaw HS) • 6-2, 225

The facts on Hayes Pullard...

Starred as linebacker, defensive back and running back as a senior in 2009, earning honors that included Parade All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West honorable mention, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State third team, All-L.A. City first team and All-L.A. City Division I first team
Had 66 tackles with 2 sacks, 1 interception, 1 deflection, 1 fumble recovery and 1 forced fumble on defense in 2009
Had 507 yards on 63 carries (8.0 avg.) with 9 TDs and 6 receptions for 88 yards (14.7 avg.) with 1 TD on offense in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team and All-L.A. City
Had 145 tackles with 26 tackles for loss and 6 sacks, 4 fumble recoveries, 3 forced fumbles and 1 interception on defense and had 968 rushing yards with 11 TDs and 15 receptions for 146 yards (9.7 avg.) with 3 TDs on offense in 2008
As a sophomore in 2007, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore first team and All-L.A. City first team
Was also on Crenshaw's basketball and track (with a best of 10.9 in the 100 meters) teams.

See it again

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:24 PM | No Comments

In case you missed Coach Lane Kiffin's press conference, you can watch a replay in full here.

Meet the press

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:20 PM | No Comments

Coach Lane Kiffin conducts his Signing Day press conference in Varsity Lounge this evening. Re-watch the presser in its entirety here.

Kiffin's Signing Day press conference

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:26 PM | 1 Comment

Coach Lane Kiffin is about to kick off his Signing Day press conference in Heritage Hall's Varsity Lounge, so watch the live stream here.

The newest Trojan: LB Glen Stanley

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:07 PM | 4 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Glen Stanley. Here's his bio:

Glen Stanley
Linebacker
Thatcher, Ariz. (Vanguard HS [Ocala, Fla.]/Eastern Arizona JC) • 6-3, 245

The facts on Glen Stanley...

Starred as at linebacker, defensive end and tight end as a sophomore at Eastern Arizona Junion College in 2009, earning honors such as Super Prep JUCO 100 and All-Western State League first team
Had 59 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 11 sacks and a forced fumble in 2009
Did not play in 2008 after spending his 2007 freshman season at Bowling Green
Started 5 games at linebacker in 2007 at Bowling Green, recording 44 tackles, 2 tackles for loss, 2 deflections and 1 forced fumble
Was the Mid-American Conference Player of the Week for his 18-tackle performance against Eastern Michigan in his first start for Bowling Green
Spent his 2006 senior season at Vanguard High in Ocala (Fla.), where he had 20 tackles as a safety
Helped Trinity Catholic High in Ocala to the Florida state Class 2B title in 2005

Coming to you live

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 3:43 PM | 1 Comment

Here's your reminder to watch the live stream of Coach Lane Kiffin's Signing Day press conference at 4:30 p.m.

The newest Trojan: RB D.J. Morgan

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 3:13 PM | 3 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for D.J. Morgan. Here's his bio:

D.J. Morgan
Running back
Van Nuys (Taft HS) • 6-0, 175

The facts on D.J. Morgan...

Starred at running back and linebacker as a senior in 2009, when he won honors such as Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State second team, All-L.A. City first team, All-L.A. City Division I Offensive Player of the Year and Los Angeles Daily News All-Area first team
Had 1,453 rushing yards on 157 carries (9.3 avg.) with 23 TDs, caught 23 passes for 251 yards (10.9 avg.) with 2 TDs and threw a touchdown pass on offense in 2009
Made 39 tackles (with 3 sacks), 2 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles on defense despite tearing a knee ligament late in the 2009 season
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team, All-L.A. City, Los Angeles Daily News All-Area first team and All-West Valley League MVP
Had 1,841 rushing yards on 212 carries (8.8 avg.) with 26 TDs and caught 32 passes for 583 yards (18.2 avg.) with 7 TDs in 2008
As a sophomore in 2007, he made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore first team and All-L.A. City first team
Ran for 1,185 yards and 10 TDs and caught 21 passes for 235 yards (111.2 avg.) with 3 TDs in 2007
Was also a standout on Taft's track team, where he won the 2009 California state 110-meter high hurdles title and placed second in the 300-meter intermediate hurdles as a junior
Also won the 2009 L.A. City 110-meter high hurdles title
In the summer of 2009, won the 110-meter high hurdles at the IAAF World Youth Championships in Italy in 13.28 (the No. 5 all-time performance) in his under-17 age group
As a sophomore, won the 2008 L.A. City titles in the 100 meters, 110-meter high hurdles and 300-meter intermediate hurdles
Had bests of 10.6 in the 100, 21.8 in the 200, 37.6 in the 300 hurdles and 22-9 in the long jump
Current Trojan linebacker Malcolm Smith also prepped at Taft

Waiting to exhale

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 2:53 PM | No Comments

And just like that, the tension and anxiety has cleared out of the USC football office.

After a day of fighting battles, climbing peaks and facing valleys, the end of the Signing Day road is just around the corner. Either the letters of intent are in and certified or coaches can account for the remaining recruits, allowing the staffers to exhale and take a deep breath for the first time in days. The final letters of intent should be streaming into the office fax machine in the next few hours.

The class so far

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 2:09 PM | 1 Comment

As of now, USC has officially announced the following 15 signees in the class of 2010:

The newest Trojan: DB Anthony Brown

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 2:02 PM | 3 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Anthony Brown. Here's his bio:

Anthony Brown
Defensive back
Rialto (Kaiser HS) • 6-0, 185

The facts on Anthony Brown...

Starred as running back and defensive back in 2009, with his honors including Prep Star All-American, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Max Preps All-State Division I first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State third team, All-CIF Eastern Division first team, Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside second team and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin All-Inland Valley MVP
Ran for 1,681 yards on 198 carries (8.5 avg.) on offense and had 55 tackles and 1 interception on defense in 2009
As a junior in 2008, he made Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside honorable mention
Rushed for 1,010 yards and 11 TDs on offense and had 48 tackles and 3 interceptions on defense in 2008

The newest Trojan: DB Demetrius Wright

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 2:02 PM | 1 Comment

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Demetrius Wright. Here's his bio:

Demetrius Wright
Defensive back
Corona (Corona HS) • 6-1, 205

The facts on Demetrius Wright...

Starred at defensive back and running back as a senior in 2009, winning honors such as Super Prep All-American, Super Prep All-Farwest, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West honorable mention, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside honorable mention
Had 68 tackles with 1 sack, 2 deflections, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery and 1 forced fumble on defense in 2009
Had 426 yards on 59 carries (7.2 avg.) with 4 TDs and 10 receptions for 125 yards (12.5 avg.) with 1 TD on offense in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made All-State Underclass third team, Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside honorable mention and All-Big VIII League first team
Had 52 tackles, 3 interceptions, 13 deflections, 2 fumble recoveries, 1 forced fumble and 3 touchdowns on defense in 2008
Had 450 yards on 62 carries (7.4 avg.) with 10 TDs and 16 receptions for 225 yards (14.1 avg.) on offense in 2008
Was also on Corona's track (best of 10.8 in the 100 meters and 22.7 in the 200) and wrestling (17-3 record in 2009 as a junior) teams

The newest Trojan: DB Dion Bailey

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 2:01 PM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Dion Bailey. Here's his bio:

Dion Bailey
Defensive back
Lakewood (Lakewood HS) • 6-1, 195

The facts on Dion Bailey...

Starred at defensive back in 2009, earning honors such as Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West Best of the Rest, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State second team, All-CIF Pac-5 Division first team and All-Moore League first team
Had 70 tackles, 8 deflections, 3 interceptions and 1 fumble recovery in 2009
As a junior in 2008, he made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team and All-Moore League
He had 72 tackles, 11 deflections, 9 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles in 2008

Receiving some good gifts

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 12:46 PM | No Comments

The Trojans are racking up quite the receiving corps with this year's recruiting class.

Three of the nation's top six tight end prospects, two of the top three wideout recruits, the top athlete and the top all-purpose back all have signed letters of intent with the Trojans today, adding some almost unheard-of depth to the USC receiving corps in 2010.

And their new teammates are definitely taking notice.

"Three of the top TEs in the country and four 5-star receivers added to what I already have?? Feels like Christmas," quarterback Matt Barkley tweeted today, referring to tight ends Christian Thomas, Randall Telfer and Xavier Grimble and wideouts Kyle Prater, Dillon Baxter, Robert Woods and Markeith Ambles.

The newest Trojan: TE Christian Thomas

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 12:22 PM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Christian Thomas. Here's his bio:

Christian Thomas
Tight end
Palmdale (Highland HS) • 6-3, 240

The facts on Christian Thomas...

Starred at tight end as a senior in 2009, winning honors such as Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West Best of the Rest, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Max Preps All-State Division I second team and Los Angeles Daily News All-Area first team
Had 43 receptions for 674 yards (15.7 avg.) with 9 TDs in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team and All-CIF Western Division first team
Had 39 receptions for 690 yards (17.7 avg.) with 8 TDs in 2008

Singing Kiffin's praises

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 11:33 AM | No Comments

Check out this complimentary segment about Lane Kiffin and his recruiting prowess, from this morning's Signing Day coverage on ESPNU:

The class as of now

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:28 AM | 1 Comment

So far, USC has officially announced the following signees in the class of 2010:

The newest Trojan: TE Randall Telfer

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:24 AM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Randall Telfer. Here's his bio:

Randall Telfer
Tight end
Rancho Cucamonga (Rancho Cucamonga HS) • 6-4, 230

The facts on Randall Telfer...

Starred at tight end as a senior in 2009, with his honors including Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West Best of the Rest, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Max Preps All-State Division I first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State second team, All-CIF Central Division first team, Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside and All-Baseline League first team
Had 45 receptions for 905 yards (20.1 avg.) with 8 TDs in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass second team, All-CIF Central Division first team, Riverside Press-Enterprise All-Riverside honorable mention, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin All-Inland Valley first team, San Bernardino Sun All-San Bernardino first team and All-Baseline League first team
Had 44 receptions for 678 yards (14.7 avg.) with 5 TDs in 2008 as Rancho Cucamonga won the CIF Central Division title

The newest Trojan: WR Markeith Ambles

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:24 AM | 1 Comment

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Markeith Ambles. Here's his bio:

Markeith Ambles
Wide receiver
McDonough, Ga. (Henry County HS) • 6-2, 215

The facts on Markeith Ambles...

Starred at wideout and defensive back in 2009, with his honors including Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Prep Star All-Southeast, Super Prep All-Georgia and All-State AA
Had 51 receptions for 798 yards (15.6 avg.) with 9 TDs and 175 yards on 25 carries (7.0 avg.) on offense in 2009
Also in 2009, recorded 30 tackles, 3 deflections, 2 interceptions and 1 forced fumble on defense and returned 12 kickoffs for 211 yards (17.6 avg.) and 9 punts for 122 yards (13.6 avg.)
Was an All-State player as a junior in 2008, posting 53 receptions for 993 yards (18.7 avg.) with 13 TDs and scored touchdowns on 2 punt returns and 1 kickoff return

The newest Trojan: TE Xavier Grimble

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:23 AM | 1 Comment

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Xavier Grimble. Here's his bio:

Xavier Grimble
Tight end
Las Vegas (Bishop Gorman HS) • 6-6, 245

The facts on Xavier Grimble...

Starred at tight end as a senior in 2009, winning honors such as Parade All-American, Under Armour All-American,Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, USA Today All-USA second team, Max Preps All-American second team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, All-State 4A and All-Southwest District Offensive MVP
Had 39 catches for 709 yards (18.2 avg.) with 9 TDs in 2009
As a junior in 2008, had 13 receptions for 310 yards (23.8 avg.) with 4 TDs
Bishop Gorman won the state title in his 2007 sophomore season
Also played basketball at Bishop Gorman

The newest Trojan: OL Giovanni Di Poalo

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:23 AM | 2 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Giovanni Di Poalo. Here's his bio:

Giovanni Di Poalo
Offensive lineman
Ventura (St. Bonaventure HS) • 6-6, 295

The facts on Giovanni Di Poalo...

Starred as offensive lineman as a senior in 2009, winning honors such as Prep Star All-American, USA Football Junior National Team, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, Max Preps All-State Division III first team, All-CIF Northern Division first team, Ventura County Star All-Ventura County first team and Los Angeles Times All-Star first team
Was a 3-year (2007-09) starter at St. Bonaventure, which won the 2007 and 2008 California state Division III titles
As a junior in 2008, made Ventura County Star All-Ventura County second team and All-League
As a sophomore in 2007, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore first team and All-League

The newest Trojan: QB Jesse Scroggins

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:22 AM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Jesse Scroggins. Here's his bio:

Jesse Scroggins
Quarterback
Lakewood (Lakewood HS) • 6-3, 205

The facts on Jesse Scroggins...

Starred at quarterback as a senior in 2009, earning honors such as Under Armour All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State second team, All-CIF Pac-5 Division first team and All-Moore League MVP
Completed 163-of-258 passes (63.2%) for 2,395 yards and 35 TDs with just 5 interceptions in 2009 (also ran for 3 TDs)
As a junior in 2008, completed 176-of-314 passes (56.1%) for 2,462 yards with 23 TDs and 10 interceptions
As a sophomore in 2007, completed 101-of-166 passes (60.8%) for 1,517 yards with 17 TDs and 3 interceptions

The newest Trojan: DB Nickell Robey

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:22 AM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Nickell Robey. Here's his bio:

Nickell Robey
Defensive back
Frostproof, Fla. (Frostproof HS) • 5-8, 165

The facts on Nickell Robey...

Starred at defensive back and tailback as a senior in 2009, earning Super Prep All-Dixie honors
Had 764 yards on 88 carries (8.9 avg.) with 9 TDs and caught 17 passes for 232 yards (13.7 avg.) with 6 TDs on offense
Had 73 tackles, 2 interceptions and 2 forced fumbles on defense and averaged 17.1 yards on 8 punt returns and 34.7 yards on 7 kickoff returns in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made All-State 2B first team and All-County first team
Ran for 1,600 yards with 10 TDs and caught 33 passes for 475 yards (14.4 avg.) with 4 TDs on offense and had 6 interceptions on defense in 2008
As a sophomore in 2007, ran for 1,500 yards on offense and had 40 tackles and 7 interceptions on defense
Was also on Frostproof's baseball (earning All-State second team honors) and track (bests of 10.71 in the 100 meters, 23-9 in the long jump and 45-11 in the triple jump) teams

The newest Trojan: DL George Uko

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:21 AM | 2 Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for George Uko. Here's his bio:

George Uko
Defensive tackle
Chino (Don Lugo HS) • 6-4, 300

The facts on George Uko...

Starred at defensive lineman as a senior in 2009, when he won honors such as Parade All-American, Under Armour All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Max Preps All-State Division I first team, Inland Valley Daily Bulletin All-Inland Valley first team and All-Mt. Baldy League
Had 91 tackles with 15 sacks in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made Inland Valley Daily Bulletin All-Inland Valley second team and All-League
Had 90 tackles (with 5 sacks), 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery in 2008

The newest Trojan: WR Robert Woods

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 10:20 AM | No Comments

USC has received and approved the signed letter of intent for Robert Woods. Here's his bio:

Robert Woods
Wide receiver
Carson (Serra HS) • 6-1, 185

The facts on Robert Woods...

Starred at wideout and defensive back as a senior in 2009, winning accolades such as USA Today All-USA first team, Parade All-American, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Max Preps All-American first team, Max Preps All-American Medium Schools first team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, Max Preps All-State Division III first team, All-CIF Northwest Division Defensive MVP, Los Angeles Times All-Star Back of the Year, South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay Player of the Year and All-Del Rey League MVP
Had 66 receptions for 1,112 yards (16.8 avg.) with 15 TDs on offense and had 96 tackles and 8 interceptions on defense in 2009
Serra went 15-0 in 2009 and won the CIF Northwest Division title and the California state Division III championship (he had 226 all-purpose yards in the state final game)
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Medium School first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team, All-CIF Northwest Division Co-Defensive MVP, Rivals.com All-Southern Section first team, South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay Player of the Year and All-Del Rey League MVP
Had 81 receptions for 1,378 yards (17.0 avg.) with 19 TDs on offense in 2008
Had 87 tackles and 7 interceptions (2 returned for TDs) on defense and returned 5 kickoffs and 2 punts for touchdowns in 2008
Serra was a CIF Northwest Division finalist in 2008
As a sophomore in 2007, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore first team, All-CIF Northwest Division first team, South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay first team and All-Del Rey League Defensive MVP
Had 45 receptions for 801 yards (17.8 avg.) with 12 TDs along with 273 rushing yards on offense and had 81 tackles and 9 interceptions on defense in 2007
Was also on Serra's track team, where he finished third in the 2009 California state 400 meters and anchored the 2009 state champion 400-meter relay team as he earned 2009 South Bay Daily Breeze All-South Bay Track Athlete of the Year
Has bests of 21.3 in the 200 and 47.15 in the 400
Current Trojan DaJohn Harris also prepped at Serra

First announcement on its way

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 9:42 AM | No Comments

We should have the official announcement about the first batch of signees shortly.

False tweeters for Kiffin

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 9:38 AM | No Comments

As a reiteration of a blog entry from last week, Coach Lane Kiffin is not on Twitter, so any Twitter accounts claiming to be Kiffin -- especially this one -- are imposters.

On TV

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 9:01 AM | 1 Comment

Coach Lane Kiffin conducts an on-camera interview for CSTV in the lobby of Heritage Hall this morning as Signing Day rolls on.

Kiffin's presser

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 8:31 AM | No Comments

Remember to watch the live stream of Coach Lane Kiffin's Signing Day press conference at 4:30 p.m. today.

Nine in

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 8:10 AM | No Comments

USC has received nine signed letters of intent already this morning -- along with the three early enrollees -- to create what Coach Lane Kiffin is calling a "perfect morning" so far for the Trojans.

We'll release the names as soon as they are cleared by the USC athletic administration.

The newest Trojan: WR Kyle Prater

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 7:23 AM | 1 Comment

Wide receiver Kyle Prater enrolled at USC a semester early, so although he's not signing a letter of intent today, he's still a part of the 2010 freshman class. Here's his bio:

Kyle Prater
Wide receiver
Maywood, Ill. (Proviso West HS) • 6-5, 215

The facts on Kyle Prater...

Enrolled at USC in the spring of 2010 after graduating a semester early from Proviso West High in Hillside (Ill.)
Starred at wideout as a senior in 2009, earning accolades such as USA Today All-USA first team, Parade All-American, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Max Preps All-American first team, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Midwest Offensive MVP, Prep Star All-Midwest, EA Sports Illinois MVP, Chicago Tribune All-State first team and Chicago Sun Times All-Area first team
Had 64 receptions for 1,151 yards (18.0 avg.) with 13 TDs in 2009
As a junior in 2008, he made Chicago Sun Times All-Area first team
Had 60 receptions for 948 yards (15.8 avg.) with 9 TDs on offense and made 150 tackles as a defensive back in 2008
Also played basketball at Proviso West

The newest Trojan: DB Patrick Hall

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 7:22 AM | No Comments

Defensive back Patrick Hall enrolled at USC a semester early, so although he's not signing a letter of intent today, he's still a part of the 2010 freshman class. Here's his bio:

Patrick Hall
Defensive back
Oxnard (St. Bonaventure HS) • 6-1, 185

The facts on Patrick Hall...

Originally signed with USC in 2009, but did not qualify for admission
Tore his knee ligaments in 2009 fall camp at USC before being declared ineligible
Re-enrolled at USC in the spring of 2010
Starred as a defensive back and running back as a senior in 2008, earning honors that included USA Today All-USA first team, Parade All-American, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, EA Sports All-American second team, Scout.com All-American second team, ESPN 150, Prep Star Dream Team, Sporting News Top 100, Super Prep All-Far West, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Orange County Register Fab 15 first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, Golden State Preps All-Southern California first team, All-CIF Northern Division Defensive MVP, Los Angeles Times All-Star, Ventura County Star All-Ventura County first team and All-Channel League first team
Had 72 tackles, 4 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries on defense and 784 rushing yards on 78 carries (10.1 avg.) with 11 TDs and 155 yards on 16 receptions (9.7 avg.) with 2 TDs on offense in 2008
St. Bonaventure won the 2008 California state Division III title
As a junior in 2007, made Rivals.com Junior All-American second team and Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team, All-CIF Northern Division first team
Had 70 tackles, 3 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries, plus ran for 468 yards with 8 TDs in 2007
St. Bonaventure won the 2007 California state Division III title
As a sophomore in 2006, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore and All-Channel League first team while rushing for 701 yards on 85 carries (8.2 avg.), catching 15 passes for 246 yards (16.4 avg.) and returning kickoffs for 154 yards
Also ran track at St. Bonaventure, placing second in the CIF Division IV meet in the 100 (10.71 wind-aided) and 200 meters (21.57)
His cousin is former USC 4-year (2000-03) letter-winning wide receiver Keary Colbert, who played on the Trojans' 2003 national championship team and ended his career as the school's No. 2 career receiver, and then played in the NFL for 4 years (2004-07) with the Carolina Panthers and spent 2008 with the Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions and 2009 with the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League

The newest Trojan: WR Dillon Baxter

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 7:21 AM | 1 Comment

Wide receiver Dillon Baxter enrolled at USC a semester early, so although he's not signing a letter of intent today, he's still a part of the 2010 freshman class. Here's his bio:

Dillon Baxter
Wide receiver
San Diego (Mission Bay HS) • 6-0, 205

The facts on Dillon Baxter...

Enrolled at USC in the spring of 2010 after graduating a semester early from Mission Bay High in San Diego
Starred at running back, quarterback and wideout as a senior in 2009, earning honors such as EA Sports Mr. Football USA, Max Preps National Player of the Year, U.S. Army Ken Hall National Player of the Year, Parade All-American All-Purpose MVP, EA Sports All-American first team, Super Prep All-American, Prep Star All-American, Max Preps All-American first team, Max Preps All-American Medium School National Player of the Year, Super Prep Elite 50, Prep Star Dream Team, Super Prep All-Farwest Offensive Player of the Year, Prep Star All-West, Long Beach Press-Telegram Best in the West first team, Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, Cal-Hi Sports California Mr. Football Player of the Year, Max Preps California Division II Player of the Year, Cal-Hi Sports All-State first team, Cal-Hi Sports All-State Medium Schools Player of the Year and All-CIF San Diego Player of the Year
Completed 102-of-166 passes (61.4%) for 1,968 yards with 26 TDs and just 7 interceptions and ran for a San Diego-record 2,984 yards on 261 carries (11.4 avg.) with 50 TDs (he also caught a TD pass) while accounting for a state-record 79 touchdowns on offense
Also had 2 interceptions and scored twice on defense and returned 9 punts for 117 yards (13.0 avg.) and 11 kickoffs for 179 yards (16.3 avg.) in 2009
Mission Bay went 13-0 and won the CIF San Diego Division IV title in 2009
As a junior in 2008, made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Underclass first team and San Diego Union-Tribune All-San Diego first team
Completed 100-of-185 passes (54.1%) for 1,293 yards and 11 TDs, plus ran for 1,258 yards with 16 TDs and had 250 receiving yards with 5 TDs in 2008
As a sophomore in 2007, he made Cal-Hi Sports All-State Sophomore first team

Signing Day glossary

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 6:56 AM | No Comments

With a big day ahead, here's a quick review of some key terms to know surrounding the recruiting process and Signing Day:

Signing Day
The first Wednesday of February annually serves as a college football holiday of sorts, as it's the first day high school seniors are allowed to sign a National Letter of Intent to play football at the next level. While nearly all players sign today, some wait longer to make a decision, with football's signing period opening today and technically running through April 1.

National Letter of Intent
A binding agreement between a prospect and the university they plan on attending, the signed letter of intent -- an official NCAA document coupled with financial aid information from the institution -- acts as a contract that details the terms and obligations for both the player and school, including scholarship and eligibility info.

Early enrollee
High school seniors can graduate one semester early from high school and enroll in the spring semester at the university he intends to play for. To do this, players must have already qualified for the NCAA's academic standards. USC has three early enrollees this year -- Dillon Baxter, Patrick Hall and Kyle Prater.

Verbal commitment
A nonbinding oral statement made by a prospect prior to Signing Day. Most players follow through on their commitments, but some make switches at the last minute.

Official visit
Recruits are allowed to take up to five official visits to the schools they are considering attending, but no more than one per institution. The programs pay for all expenses on the weekend-long trips, including transportation, room, meals and entertainment costs. The official visit weekends, many of which are during the football season and the others occurring in January, play a significant part in the recruiting process.

Dark of night

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 6:25 AM | No Comments

By the looks of things outside, it's still the middle of the night in L.A. Just don't tell the USC coaches, who are all continuing to light up the phone lines talking to recruits early this morning.

"The sun isn't up yet, but all our coaches are," Coach Lane Kiffin said.

Dial them up

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:49 AM | No Comments

The sun won't rise for another hour, but coaches are already hitting the phones to seal the deal with prospects and ensure all the logistics surrounding their letters of intent are good to go. The East Coast recruits are getting most of the attention now, but once normal waking hours arrive on the West Coast, all of the potential signees will be getting phone calls until their signed letters of intent roll through the fax machine.

Worldwide leader

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 5:41 AM | No Comments

A satellite truck for ESPN positions itself outside of Heritage Hall bright and early this morning, preparing for the action-packed day ahead at the USC football headquarters. ESPN is scheduled to be camped out at Heritage Hall throughout Signing Day and for Coach Lane Kiffin's press conference at 4:30 p.m. this afternoon.

Morning television

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:44 AM | No Comments

In a darkened football office this morning, assistant coaches James Cregg and John Morton down coffee while relaxing and watching SportsCenter. The waiting game now begins, as the staffers are at the mercy of the fax machine and what it spits out throughout the remainder of Signing Day 2010.

Early bird

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:26 AM | No Comments

John Morton is quite the morning person, apparently.

The wide receivers coach was the first staffer awake this morning and is now roaming the office acting as the personal alarm clock for his colleagues -- "Let's go! You awake?" the fourth-year wide receivers coach is yelling out in each assistant coach's office.

Morton even made a stop by head coach Lane Kiffin's quarters at the same time the first letter of intent was humming through the fax machine.

"Hey Kiff, we got a fax!" screamed Morton, already sipping a coffee. "First fax! Woooo!"

First one in

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:17 AM | No Comments

Put it in the record book -- the Trojans' first signed letter of intent came through the fax machine at 4:06 a.m. this morning.

The national letter of intent now has to be approved and signed off on by USC's athletic administration before the prospect's name can be released as a certified signee. We'll be posting the names as soon as they become official throughout the day.

Here we go

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 4:01 AM | No Comments

Let it begin.

Thanks to the time difference, Signing Day 2010 has officially started, as it's now past 7 a.m. on the East Coast. Prospects who live in the Eastern time zone can now begin faxing in their signed letters of intent, commencing a wild and memorable day that annually has more twists and turns than a pretzel.

Calm before it all

By Jordan Moore on February 3, 2010 1:12 AM | No Comments

The lights are out and the coaches are asleep in the USC football office right now, but in a matter of hours the Trojan football headquarters will be buzzing with energy on Signing Day 2010 as the "Home of the Trojans" welcomes in a new batch of signees on Wednesday. Coaches will rustle awake around 4 a.m., when the first signed letter of intent could be making its way through the office's fax machine.

Finish time

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 11:19 PM | No Comments

Coaches have reached the final hour of Signing Day eve, and they're burning the midnight oil while making last calls and reviewing their list of prospects. Many of them will cozy up onto their office couches soon for a quick catnap before the first letters of intent can begin arriving on the fax machine at 4 a.m., which is 7 a.m. Eastern time and the official start of Signing Day 2010.

Late-night meeting

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 10:22 PM | No Comments

Nine coaches are still working away at Heritage Hall, and they all just gathered in the War Room for an impromptu staff meeting to run through USC's list of potential signees. Caffeinated sodas have been popped open as many of the night's final phone calls are being made to the prospects on the West Coast.

Needless to say, but the Signing Day all-nighter rages on in the Trojan football office.

Working into the night

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 10:01 PM | No Comments

Sitting at the entrance to the USC football office in Heritage Hall, defensive backs coach Willie Mack Garza makes a phone call to a recruit on the eve of Signing Day, with just a few hours remaining until the signed letters of intent will begin coming into the office.

Quieting down

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 8:52 PM | No Comments

With the clock inching closer to 9 p.m. on the West Coast -- and midnight on the East Coast -- coaches' phone calls to recruits have slowed to a trickle. The frenetic pace of calls won't return until the morning, but there should be some telephonic conversations here and there throughout the night as coaches close the deal on the Class of 2010.

Phone it in

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 7:10 PM | 1 Comment

RipsIt reader Darren Fraser sent in this interesting question about the coaches' phone calls to prospects during the past few days: "Aren't the last two days a quiet period and we aren't allowed to talk to recruits?"

Though it's technically an NCAA-mandated "dead period" this week, coaches around the country are permitted an unlimited number of phone calls to recruits from 7 a.m. on Monday through 7 a.m. on Friday. The "dead period" moniker simply refers to zero face-to-face contact allowed during this time.

During much of the year, coaches are permitted just one phone call per week to a recruit, so the days surrounding Signing Day are a communication jackpot for the staffers.

Closing in on the big day

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 5:01 PM | No Comments

The day is winding down at Heritage Hall, but that only means one thing.

The night is just getting started.

After a day filled with phone calls with recruits and their parents and coaches, coaches continue to rack up the minutes on their cell phone plans as the sun begins to set on Tuesday, the last day before Signing Day. Most, if not all, of the staffers will remain in the office deep into the night making final pitches and promises to the players who will sign their letters of intent on Wednesday morning.

Signing Day 2010's all-important stretch run is here, and the light at the end of the tunnel gets brighter with each tick-tock of the clock.

One-stop shop

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 3:22 PM | No Comments

Besides following along on the Blog all day tomorrow, be sure to check out USCRipsIt's Signing Day page, a one-stop landing spot for all the video and information on the Trojan signees.

Picture day

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 2:14 PM | No Comments

New linebackers coach Joe Barry, a former Trojan linebacker in the '90s, takes his headshot for the program and website in the lobby of Heritage Hall this afternoon. Barry and the other newly hired coaches took their photos today as they continue to complete the logistical duties of being a USC coach.

Works like a machine

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 1:10 PM | 1 Comment

The football office's fax machine has been loaded with paper, checked for toner and even tested by a campus phone operations staffer to ensure that it'll be ready for its most eventful day of the year, Signing Day on Wednesday. National letters of intent from all of USC's signees in the Class of 2010 will come through this machine in Heritage Hall, so its flawless functionality will be an absolute must tomorrow.

No Signing Day for these three

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 12:33 PM | No Comments

Wednesday's Signing Day marks the official start to numerous players' Trojan careers, but three 2010 freshmen will be missing out on the milestone day for high school seniors.

Tailback Dillon Baxter, wideout Kyle Prater and defensive back Patrick Hall enrolled this spring at USC, meaning they won't actually sign a national letter of intent tomorrow. Unlike almost all other freshmen scholarship football players around the country -- who will sign letters of intent starting at 7 a.m. on Wednesday -- USC's three early enrollees merely inked a financial aid agreement through the athletic department before starting school this semester. They miss out on the hoopla of Signing Day, but they make up for it by being in college and around their teammates a whole semester early.

Covering Signing Day

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 11:42 AM | No Comments

Don't miss out on our wall-to-wall coverage all day on Signing Day tomorrow, from pre-sunrise with the first fax until the class fills out and the coaches host a recruiting celebration with athletic department support members late into the night. Stay tuned with the Blog all day and also be sure to check in for the live stream of Coach Lane Kiffin's Signing Day press conference at 4:30 p.m. tomorrow.

Balanced attack

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 11:10 AM | No Comments

(From left to right) Fullback Hunter Simmons, tailback Ahmed Mokhtar, safety Ryan McMahon, wideout Scott Stephens, linebacker Jordan Campbell, safety Drew McAllister and fullback Simi Vehikite go through a balance exercise during this morning's strength and conditioning session on Howard Jones Field.

Howell to play on

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 10:06 AM | No Comments

Offensive lineman Nick Howell will play in the Texas Vs. The Nation college football all-star game on Saturday in El Paso.

Heading to the Combine

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 9:14 AM | No Comments

With the Senior Bowl in the books, the NFL-bound prospects and team personnel now turn their attention to the NFL Combine in three weeks. Check out the schedule for the pre-Draft talent showcase in Indianapolis from Feb. 24 to March 2, and here's the list of the 11 Trojans who have been invited:

OL Charles Brown
OT Jeff Byers
DE Everson Griffen
TB Stafon Johnson
S Taylor Mays
TE Anthony McCoy
TB Joe McKnight
OL Alex Parsons
DB Josh Pinkard
CB Kevin Thomas
WR Damian Williams

Tomorrow is only a day away

By Jordan Moore on February 2, 2010 8:35 AM | No Comments

Signing Day is almost here.

Less than 23 hours from now, at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, the fax machine will begin spewing forth the future of USC football -- signed letters of intent from the prospects who are officially committing to playing for the Trojans. Coaches will spend the remaining hours before Signing Day making and receiving phone calls, as well as examining film of potential recruits for the Class of 2011.

Don't expect much sleep or relaxation to occur between now and when the crop of signees are harvested throughout the day tomorrow.

Kiffin's Signing Day presser

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 3:52 PM | No Comments

Coach Lane Kiffin will host a press conference on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. to discuss the Trojans' 2010 recruiting class. It'll be streamed live online, so be sure to tune in to hear Kiffin's remarks on Signing Day.

This week in USC sports

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 2:55 PM | No Comments

Find out what happened in Trojan athletics during the last seven days:

The men's basketball team lost twice in Oregon over the weekend, dropping its record to 12-9.
The women's hoops team beat Oregon State and then fell to Oregon at home this weekend. The Women of Troy are 13-7 overall and 7-2 in the Pac-10.
The women's swimming team upset No. 5 Cal on Friday, upping its record to 10-1 on the season.
The USC baseball team will face off against UCLA at Dodger Stadium on Feb. 28. Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased here.
The No. 9 women's tennis team had back-to-back 4-0 sweeps over No. 60 San Diego and No. 35 Auburn at home this weekend.

Sanchez on a mission

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 1:38 PM | No Comments

Mark Sanchez is aiming to raise $100,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation -- and he needs your help.

Vote for Sanchez and the JDRF as part of the NFL's Pepsi Refresh Project, an online campaign to fund programs that will positively impact people's lives. Vote here before it ends at 12:01 a.m. on Friday. If Sanchez garners the most votes, the funding will help JDRF establish a nationwide program to educate people about the symptoms of type 1 diabetes and get medical care before suffering life-threatening complications of high blood sugar.

Canales heads to Seattle

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 1:04 PM | 3 Comments

Offensive administrative assistant Dave Canales has been hired as an offensive quality control coach for the Seattle Seahawks. Canales, who previously coached at El Camino Junior College and played at Azusa Pacific, spent one season at USC, working under former quarterbacks coach Jeremy Bates. He now joins eight other former Trojan staffers in Seattle:

Pete Carroll, head coach
Jeremy Bates, offensive coordinator
Ken Norton, linebackers coach
Brian Schneider, special teams coordinator
Kris Richard, assistant defensive backs coach
Dave Canales, offensive quality control coach
Chris Carlisle, head strength and conditioning coach
Jamie Yanchar, assistant strength and conditioning coach
Matt Capurro, director of football operations

Exclusive Signing Day coverage on RipsIt

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 12:20 PM | 1 Comment

High school seniors will sign their letters of intent on Wednesday, also known as Signing Day and/or one of the most exciting days of the year in the college football world.

Be sure to follow USCRipsIt all day for exclusive, up-to-the-minute coverage of the Trojans' 2010 class of recruits, including news of the latest signees as they happen. As the authoritative voice of the USC football program, we'll be the first and only source to reveal official word as the newest Trojans send in their signed letters of intent.

Heavy lifting

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 11:43 AM | 2 Comments

Linebacker Michael Morgan goes through squat exercises in Heritage Hall's weight room this morning. Players are kicking off the second full week of the offseason strength and conditioning program with 100-minute workouts today.

Longtime statistician passes away

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 11:08 AM | No Comments

Ned Miller, who served as the official statistician for USC football games for the past 54 years, died on Sunday of cancer. He was 73.

Miller's funeral will be held at 9 a.m. on Tuesday at Mt. Sinai Memorial Park in Los Angeles.

Miller began working on the USC stat crew in the Coliseum press box in 1956 and became the head statistician in 1975.

He was regarded as one of the nation's best football in-game statisticians. He never used a calculator or computer, instead calculating all the statistics in his head and then recording them by hand. While working USC games, he recorded the statistics of seven Heisman Trophy winners, 123 All-American first-teamers and seven national championship squads.

Junior work

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 10:48 AM | No Comments

The coaches aren't wasting any time.

With nearly all of their work done for the Class of 2010, the staff has gotten together in the War Room to prepare for Signing Day 2011 by looking at highlight tapes of current high school juniors. Decision day might be 366 days away, but it's never too early to watch film and begin scouting prospects for next year's class. They'll be in the meeting for most of the morning.

Getting closer to the day

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 9:29 AM | 3 Comments

Put away the suitcases -- the grueling recruiting trail has reached an end.

After two-and-a-half weeks of almost nonstop travel, the coaches are back in the office this morning, deprived of sleep but loaded with frequent flier miles. Fresh off an action-packed official visit weekend that saw 12 prospects come to USC, the Trojan football machine now transitions to a quiet hum, as the first four days of the week are an NCAA-mandated "dead period," meaning no face-to-face contact is permitted between coaches and recruits.

The countdown for Signing Day, which is like Christmas morning for the coaches, is now under two days. Or, to be more exact, less than 46 hours remain until the first letter of intent will roll through the office's fax machine. The excitement in Heritage Hall rises with each passing moment.

Senior Bowl stats

By Jordan Moore on February 1, 2010 8:52 AM | No Comments

Four Trojans competed in Saturday's Senior Bowl, including three who started for the South squad. Check out how the USC players performed in the pre-Draft showcase in Mobile, Ala., which was won by the North team, 31-13:

Safety Taylor Mays started the game, recorded two tackles and also snagged an interception, returning it for 18 yards.
Tight end Anthony McCoy got the start at tight end and caught one pass for four yards.
Offensive lineman Jeff Byers started at center.
Tailback Stafon Johnson received four carries and ran for a net of three yards, with a long of four.

February 2010 Archives