USC Trojans:

Summer 60: Nick Perry

By Jordan Moore on July 29, 2011 3:30 PM | 4 Comments

If USC DE Nick Perry can stay healthy this season, he could be the pass rush threat that turns the Trojan defense around.

Here he is having some fun with us and taking his "Summer 60"...

Photo Gallery: 2011-12 Men's Hoops Team

By Jordan Moore on July 29, 2011 2:41 PM | No Comments

The 2011-12 USC men's basketball roster is stacked with fresh faces this season.

Our John McGillen provides a first glance at the new look Trojans. (Note: Transfers Ari Stewart and Eric Wise are not allowed to practice yet. Sophomore Curtis Washington is not pictured...sorry Curt!)

Milwaukee's Best

By Jordan Moore on July 29, 2011 2:09 PM | No Comments

USC men's basketball assistant Tony Miller was elected into the Marquette M Club Hall of Fame as one of seven members of the class of 2011.

Click here for the full story.

Miller played for Kevin O'Neill for three of his four seasons as a Golden Eagle. He is the Marquette career leader in assists.

Golden Again

By Jordan Moore on July 29, 2011 10:39 AM | 4 Comments

A year from now, the London 2012 Olympics will be in full blast. USC swimming alum Rebecca Soni has served notice to her competition that they have a lot of catching up to do until then.

The Trojan great doubled up on gold medal finishes at the 2011 World Championships with a win in the 200-meter breaststroke last night. In doing so, she avenged a fourth place finish in the same event at the 2009 World's.

Click here for the full story!

Soni is expected to challenge for a third gold in Shanghai when she races Trojan Swim Club teammate Jessica Hardy in the 50-meter on Sunday.

3-Points: Men's Hoops Brazil #1

By Jordan Moore on July 29, 2011 2:24 AM | No Comments

Written by Jovan Buha, USC Blog Contributor

The USC's men's basketball team had its first practice Thursday night, beginning a series of 10 NCAA-granted practices before it heads to Brazil in August. The practice went for two-and-a-half hours and showcased some of the Trojans' new talent.

The theme of the practice was patience. With at least six new projected rotation players and only two mainstays from last season's squad, both Kevin O'Neill and Jio Fontan realize the Trojans will need time to adjust. Moving forward, the focus of the rest of the practices will be developing team chemistry, teaching the newcomers USC's system, and polishing up to face some of Brazil's toughest competition.

Among the Trojans new additions (Dewayne Dedmon, Aaron Fuller, Greg Allen, James Blasczyk, Byron Wesley and Alexis Moore), Dedmon and Moore were the most impressive. Dedmon's size, length, athleticism, hustle, energy and shooting touch were a sight to see, while Moore's maturity, tenacity, poise and 3-point shot had him looking like a college veteran. Additionally, Allen's 3-point shooting looked on par to his reputation, and Fuller's skill and strength were evident when battling in the paint.

O'Neill denied having a predetermined starting lineup already, although he hinted that Fontan, Dedmon and Mo Jones would likely be starters, with the two other spots up for grabs. Throughout practice, the Trojans were split up into two groups: one wearing red jerseys, and one wearing black jerseys. The "black jersey" squad was composed of Jones, Fontan, Fuller, Garrett Jackson, and Dedmon, likely the projected starting lineup at this point.

And 1...

Here are two video interviews with K.O. and Jio Fontan talking about their first impressions from today's practice.

Summer 60: Matt Kalil

By Jordan Moore on July 28, 2011 3:38 PM | 17 Comments

Let's get back to it with the 6'7" 295 pound franchise left tackle Matt Kalil answering rapid fire questions about his brother Ryan, Song Girls and more!

Picture of the Day

By Jordan Moore on July 28, 2011 3:15 PM | 2 Comments

USC fall camp begins a week from today. Robert Woods is ready to fly...

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Kiffin's ESPN Experience

By Jordan Moore on July 28, 2011 9:35 AM | No Comments

Lane Kiffin had a marathon day of interviews at the ESPN headquarters in Bristol Wednesday.

Click here to listen to the head coach on Mike and Mike.

Click here to listen to Kiffin with Colin Cowherd.

ESPN producer Lisa Stokes documented Kiffin's day in pictures.

Meet Anna Collier

By Jordan Moore on July 28, 2011 9:13 AM | No Comments

USC women's sand volleyball now has a face to the program in new head coach Anna Collier.

Click here to read more about the Trojan alum.

Collier sat down with us for an introductory interview inside Heritage Hall to discuss how she plans to build the program, her unique coaching style and much more.

Fall Camp Injury Report

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 4:13 PM | No Comments

In just a week, the 2011 football Trojans will move in to their dorms and begin the month long grind that is fall camp.

While the offense emerged from the offseason at full strength save for Marc Tyler's suspension, the defense reported a pair of knee injuries, which will sideline redshirt freshman DB Patrick Hall and incoming freshman DE DeVante Wilson. Plus, Lane Kiffin announced that 2011 commit DE Steve Dillon has been granted a release from his letter-of-intent.

The head coach did not have anything new to report on DL Armond Armstead's condition, but he has not been ruled out for the season.

With the defensive line depth in question, Kiffin noted that Devon Kennard's move from middle linebacker to defensive end could be a huge factor this season as he works in with Nick Perry and Wes Horton.

Kennard was ranked the #1 high school defensive end in the nation by Rivals.com.

Pac-12 Networks

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 2:23 PM | 4 Comments

Conference commissioner Larry Scott officially announced the launch of the Pac-12 national network, which will be distributed through the iN Demand cable partnership of Comcast, Cox, Time Warner Cable and Bright House, plus six additional regional networks, which will broadcast a combined 850 sporting events annually.

"Every football and men's basketball game will be available to a national audience," said Scott who is making good on the promise he made going into the TV right negotiations.

The Pac-12 will own and control all the networks, which will be available on any device (not just TV) as long as it is authenticated by the cable partner. The network will debut for the 2012-13 school seasons.

The six additional networks will be strewn across the conference footprint in the Washington, Oregon, Northern California, Southern California, Arizona and Mountain regions.

While satellite companies were not addressed in this announcement, the commissioner implied in a follow-up answer that they are still working to find a home on that platform as well.

The Pac-12 started the press conference with a cool new video, which features some great USCTrojans.com captured content.

Photo Gallery: 2011 Pac-12 Media Day

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 1:55 PM | 3 Comments

Our Rich Rodriguez snapped some behind the scenes shots from yesterday's Pac-12 Football Media Day for your perusal.

Learning Experience

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 12:38 PM | No Comments

Heading into his senior year, Steve Johnson scored a coveted summer internship to prepare himself for life after school. The NCAA singles champ is testing his game at the highest level of tennis.

Tuesday, Johnson took on veteran tour pro Gilles Muller in the first round of the Farmer's Classic at UCLA. After dusting Muller 6-2 in the first in just 23 minutes, Johnson lost the battle in the second and third sets (3-6 and 4-6), so he is still searching for his first professional main draw win, but he is hardly discouraged.

"I can hang with these guys," Johnson said after the match. "He was a semifinalist last week and I'm right there with him. I came out strong and maybe a couple of points in the middle of the third, a little experience on my part, and things turn out differently."

Muller is ranked 71st in the world and famously knocked Andy Roddick out of the 2005 U.S. Open.

"Tonight is another testament that I will play this game for a long time and hopefully be very successful at it," said Johnson. "Tennis is pretty small margins and one or two shots make a difference in the whole match."

In this case, he had three consecutive break points in the first game of the second set, but Muller served his way out of it. Johnson double-faulted on break point in the second and then double-faulted twice in the pivotal game of the third set.

Undeterred, the USC three-time national champ is headed for a full summer and fall pro schedule, including the U.S. Open, before returning to school.

"I'm going to play the rest of the year at ATP, challenger, pro circuit stuff and see how it goes. Unless something incredible happens, I'll be back at SC in January ready to get another national title."

Here are John McGillen's photos from yesterday's match on center court...

Chances and Second Chances

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 12:21 PM | 1 Comment

UPDATE: Matt Leinart changed his mind and will stay with the Houston Texans, according to the LA Times.

Matt Leinart's first official pass of his USC career was a 5-yard touchdown connection to Mike Williams at Auburn. In all, the lefty and his #1 target hooked up for 30 scoring throws in just two seasons together (and one famous pass from Williams-to-Leinart...video below).

While the deal has yet to be finalized, Matt Leinart is likely headed to Seattle to be reunited with former head coach Pete Carroll and top receiver Mike Williams, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen. He'll have to battle Tarvaris Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst for the starting job.

NFL free agency has picked up at a frenzied pace this week and Trojans are going every which way. Three undrafted Trojans have found their first homes in the league.

Tuscon native C Kris O'Dowd will stay at home in Arizona. RB C.J. Gable was signed by New Orleans and LB Michael Morgan is also on his way to Seattle.

We'll keep you updated on any and all Trojans on the move.

Golden Girl

By Jordan Moore on July 27, 2011 10:21 AM | 2 Comments

Former USC swimmer Rebecca Soni defended her 2009 World Championship gold medal by besting the field in Shanghai yet again Tuesday in the 100-meter breaststroke.

The 2008 Olympic gold medalist touched the wall in 1:05.05, which was a comfortable second ahead of rival Leisel Jones (1:06.25).

Click here for the full story.

Soni will also compete in the 200-meter and 50-meter breaststroke at the 2011 World Championships.

Kiffin Car Wash

By Jordan Moore on July 26, 2011 8:37 PM | 5 Comments

After a full slate of interviews at Pac-12 Media Day, Lane Kiffin and the rest of the conference coaches will fly across the country for an ESPN blitz in Bristol on Wednesday.

Here are all the platforms on which you can find Coach Kiff as he cycles through the ESPN car wash:

(All times eastern)

9:15am - Mike & Mike (live) on ESPN2

9:40am - SportsCenter (live) on ESPN

9:50am - Twitter chat on Twitter.com/SportsCenter

10:10am - ESPN RISE (Taped Segment)

10:30am - GameDay (Taped Segment)

11:00am - ESPNU College Football Podcast (Taped Segment)

11:30am - ESPNU (Taped Segment)

12:00pm - ESPN.com Page 2 on ESPN.com/Page2

12:30pm - The Herd (live) on ESPNU

1:00pm - College Football Live (Taped Segment)

1:25pm - Doug Gottlieb Radio Show (Taped Segment)

1:45pm - Scott Van Pelt Radio Show (Taped Segment)

Kiffin and Barkley at Media Day

By Jordan Moore on July 26, 2011 8:04 PM | 3 Comments

In case you could not catch the live stream, here's Lane Kiffin and Matt Barkley addressing the main press room at Pac-12 Media Day.

Strength in Numbers

By Jordan Moore on July 26, 2011 4:00 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

From the opening seconds of the conference's video montage to the noticeable optimism in the voice of Commissioner Larry Scott, the theme of embracing expansion was evident during the entirety of Tuesday's inaugural Pac-12 Media Day.

While the conference already holds 400 National Championships to its name and will likely boast two Top 5 teams (Oregon and Stanford) in next month's annual preseason rankings, the addition of Colorado and Utah was a non-stop talking point throughout the day at the Fox Studios in Culver City, CA.

"Today is the dawn of a new day for this storied conference, and we're thrilled with the additions of Colorado and Utah," Pac-12 Commissioner Scott said. "I am thrilled with the way we have been tracking with these two new additions, but we still have a lot more ambition and a lot more we want to do. I always think we can learn something from other conferences like the Big 10, SEC or Big 12, but our conference is a unique brand, and we want to be our own model."

Scott wasn't the only one gushing over the conference's newfound strength in numbers. Head coaches Kyle Whittingham (Utah) and Jon Embree (Colorado) reiterated that the move was not only a bold step for their respective member institutions, but a positive one in terms of growing the sport of football with fans and student-athletes on the west coast.

The biggest question, however, posed to both coaches on Tuesday was how the move to a new conference would change the dynamics of their program.

"We are changing our procedures and preparation process," said Whittingham. "One of the biggest challenges facing us is a lack of familiarity with the conference. The wear and tear of playing in the Pac-12 is something we have to approach the right way and be smart in the way we practice. But there's no more pressure than ever before, because you want to win regardless of what conference you're in."

Embree, who is in his first year at the helm of the Buffaloes, says the major challenge facing his team starts from within. The former CU alum believes his first objective will be to change the culture of a program that went just 13-23 over the past three seasons.

"Unfortunately, our reputation has changed and we need to get it back to where it once was," said Embree, who most recently was the Washington Redskins' tight ends coach. "We need to re-establish ourselves back down here in terms of recruiting. With eight coaches who have either coached or played in the NFL, I think that helps us. That gives us instant credibility when you know what's on the other side of the fence."

USC and Utah will waste little time getting to know one another, as the two teams square off to open conference play at the Coliseum on Sept.10. Embree's squad will welcome the Trojans to Boulder towards the later part of 2011, as the two Pac-12 South foes will clash in a rare Friday night game on Nov.4.

It should be noted, that even in a non-bowl season, USC apparently has a few more fans than expected in the media. The assembled press on hand for media day voted the Trojans' as the preseason favorite to claim the Pac-12's inaugural South Division title.

(Derick Hingle/ Icon SMI)

Pac-12 Media Day Highlights

By Jordan Moore on July 26, 2011 2:17 PM | 2 Comments

The 2011 football season is officially underway with the first Pac-12 Media Day in the books. We have video interviews, a feature story and photographs to come, but here's the best stuff of the day.

Line of the Day

Matt Barkley on debunking a Lane Kiffin myth: "You are in the same place for two years in a row now, which is good. I'm happy to have the same coach for two years in a row. We're progressing."

Story of the Day

Andrew Luck's beard. The Stanford QB and Heisman candidate is rocking the Dan Fouts' facial hair, which even he admits might be a questionable look for him.

Real Story of the Day

UCLA freshman QB Brett Hundley, who was expected to compete for the starting job, will miss 3-4 weeks after undergoing knee surgery brought on by an injury suffered on the basketball court, Rick Neuheisel announced in his presser.

Interview of the Day

After a million interviews and no food, Matt Barkley was inspired by the Fox studio surroundings and broke out his favorite accent just for us.

Picture of the Day

Barkley with USC Heisman winner Marcus Allen and the new voice of the Pac-12 Gus Johnson.

Pac-12 Media Day Schedule

By Jordan Moore on July 26, 2011 9:30 AM | No Comments

We'll have a crew at Pac-12 Media Day tomorrow on the Fox lot in Culver City covering Lane Kiffin and Matt Barkley's every move plus interviewing the other coaches and players around the conference. Follow us on Twitter for minute-by-minute updates.

You can watch a live stream of Pac-12 Media Day on the conference's website. Here is the complete schedule of interviews...

9:00 a.m. PT                       Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott Opening Remarks
9:05 a.m. PT                       CAL Coach Jeff Tedford/WR Marvin Jones
9:20 a.m. PT                       ORE Coach Chip Kelly/TE David Paulsen
9:35 a.m. PT                       OSU Coach Mike Riley/S Lance Mitchell
9:50 a.m. PT                       STAN Coach David Shaw/QB Andrew Luck
10:05 a.m. PT                     WASH Coach Steve Sarkisian/RB Chris Polk
10:20 a.m. PT                     WSU Coach Paul Wulff/WR Jared Karstetter

10:45 a.m. PT                     ARIZ Coach Mike Stoops/QB Nick Foles
11:00 a.m. PT                     ASU Coach Dennis Erickson/QB Brock Osweiler
11:15 a.m. PT                     COLO Coach Jon Embree/QB Tyler Hansen
11:30 a.m. PT                     UCLA Coach Rick Neuheisel/RB Johnathan Franklin
11:45 a.m. PT                     USC Coach Lane Kiffin/QB Matt Barkley
12:00 p.m. PT                    UTAH Coach Kyle Whittingham/OT Tony Bergstrom

Unlocked

By Jordan Moore on July 25, 2011 4:40 PM | 2 Comments

The NFL lockout is over!

To celebrate, we are posting former USC and current Kansas City Chiefs QB Matt Cassel's interview with athletic director Pat Haden.

2011 Football Season Preview

By Jordan Moore on July 25, 2011 2:54 PM | 1 Comment

The USC sports information department released preseason notes to get everyone up to speed on where the football program stands heading into 2011.

Click the link to download the notes!
11prenotes.fb.pdf

Here are the bullet points...

USC returns 13 starters (6 on offense, 7 on defense, 0 kickers)

#17 was the highest ranking the Trojans received in any national preseason publication so far.

The 2011 schedule features 7 teams that played in bowl games last season.

Lane Kiffin on the defense: "The improvement of our defense will be extremely important to our success in 2011 and the future. Our defense last year was not to our standards. We're looking for a major upgrade now as we go into the second year in our system."

WR coach Ted Gilmore is the only new fulltime assistant added to the staff.

If Matt Barkley throws for 3,000+ yards and 20+ TDs, he will statistically move into third place on the career USC passing list in both categories.

The Trojans do not feature a single fullback with any real experience. Freshmen Soma Vainuku and Charles Burks plus sophomore walk-on Hunter Simmons will compete for the job.

Defensive stats that need changing: The Trojans allowed their highest total yardage per game average (400.0) since records were kept in 1955. USC allowed 26.7 points per game, the highest average ever. The defense yielded 30 touchdown passes, which is 11 more than the next highest total since 1955.

The game at Colorado on November 4 will be USC's first Friday game since 1999 against Louisiana Tech.

Due to the Pac-12 schedule, the Trojans will miss Oregon State and Washington State.

OT David Garness could become the first Trojan letterman to claim Alaska as his home.

Assistant coach Kennedy Pola changed his name back to Polamalu to "honor my parents, family and heritage." He changed it to Pola when he came to California at the age of 14.

Devon Kennard (photo right) is officially listed at defensive end on the updated roster. He played middle linebacker last season.

Pam McGee Gets the Hall Call

By Jordan Moore on July 25, 2011 11:59 AM | No Comments

Women of Troy legend Pam McGee, who helped lead USC to back-to-back national championships in 1983 and 1984, was elected into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the 2012 class.

The 1984 All-American was a three-time All-NCAA first team selection. She is USC's sixth all-time leading scorer and the second best rebounder in school history.

The 1984 Olympic gold medalist will join Cheryl Miller and Cynthia Cooper-Dyke as the only Trojan players in the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.

Paula (left) and Pam (right) were the inseparable McGee sisters from Flint, Michigan.

Hall of a Day

By Jordan Moore on July 25, 2011 10:10 AM | No Comments

Former USC pitcher Pat Gillick was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown yesterday for his 27 years as a major league baseball general manager.

L.A. Daily News columnist Tom Hoffarth chronicled Gillick's rise to stardom from his Southern California roots.

The Philadelphia Daily News recapped his momentous day as the World Series winning retired Phillies GM was saluted at a celebratory party.

And below, you can watch Gillick's Cooperstown speech in its entirety. The championship architect was enshrined alongside his former player Roberto Alomar and masterful right-hander Bert Blyleven.

Standing Pat

By Jordan Moore on July 24, 2011 9:10 AM | No Comments

Former USC pitcher Pat Gillick will be enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame at Cooperstown Sunday for his body of work as a major league executive.

Gillick's GM resume is headlined by three World Series rings. He built the Blue Jays into back-to-back champions in 1992-93 and closed his career in style by leading the Philadelphia Phillies to the 2008 crown.

He once traded the iconic Ken Griffey Jr. from Seattle only to see the Mariners win a record 116 games the following season. Gillick heads to the Hall alongside Roberto Alomar, who he brought to Toronto to help build the powerful Blue Jays teams of the early 90s.

Click here for an ESPN.com article ranking Gillick's 10 best moves as a GM.

As a collegiate at Troy for two seasons, he helped USC win the 1958 college baseball championship. He is a local product out of Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks.

(AP photo by Mike Groll)

QB to QB

By Jordan Moore on July 22, 2011 3:54 PM | No Comments

The NFL lockout is (hopefully) coming to an end soon, which means free agent Matt Leinart will be looking for a new home. Of course, he is always welcome back in Los Angeles, where he inked his name in the USC record books as one of the all-time greats.

The Heisman winner was back inside the Coliseum for the Spring Game and athletic director Pat Haden caught up with him on the sidelines.

Take a look...

Can You Hear Me Now?

By Jordan Moore on July 22, 2011 3:31 PM | 2 Comments

Good news! You should be able to make and receive phone calls this fall at the Coliseum.

The venerable stadium is vastly improving connectivity by installing increased permanent hardware, which will improve the signal for all cell phone carriers.

Construction is under way and on schedule. They plan to have it ready by kickoff.

Race to 100

By Jordan Moore on July 22, 2011 11:52 AM | No Comments

Former USC pitcher Ryan Cook made it 98 Trojans who have played in the major leagues when he took the loss for Arizona against Milwaukee earlier this week.

Click here for the full story on Cook.

USC baseball trails only Arizona State (99) in the race to 100 big leaguers from the same alma mater. The Trojans could hit the century mark this season with Tommy Milone (Nationals), Brad Boxberger (Reds) and Grant Green (A's) all on the precipice of a call-up.

Milone was a AAA All-Star this season for the Syracuse Chiefs. Boxberger was moved up from AA to AAA after pitching to a 1.31 ERA through his first 30 games. Green was the MVP of the Futures Game and has rocketed up the organizational ladder in just two years.

Major league baseball allows the rosters to expand from 25 to 40 starting September 1, so if the ex-Trojans don't get the call in the next six weeks, they could get their opportunity in the final month.

Cook joins former Trojan Ian Kennedy on the D'Backs pitching staff.

Summer 60: Matt Barkley

By Jordan Moore on July 21, 2011 3:52 PM | No Comments

We have to be honest with you. The QB struggled a little bit with the first two questions, but he gets rolling eventually.

The Moneymaker

By Jordan Moore on July 21, 2011 3:06 PM | 2 Comments

USC football legend Troy Polamalu made a surprise trip to Heritage Hall last night for the first time in a long time.

We're working on tracking down a photo that he took next to his Fathead in the auditorium. Mostly, he reminisced with former teammate and current graduate assistant Lenny Vandermade about the good old days.

Meanwhile, this video went viral today as some Pittsburgh Steelers may or may not have messed with Polamalu's moneymaker.

Freshman Focus: George Farmer

By Jordan Moore on July 21, 2011 11:30 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

From the time he was young, freshman George Farmer has always had a unique affinity for the flight of birds. While he hopes to one day pursue his own path in the field of commercial aviation, for now, the No.1 ranked wide receiver in the Class of 2011 has settled on spreading his wings on the football field.

If there is such a thing as a complete wideout at the age of 18, Farmer is the closest thing to it. With a bruising body frame (6'2", 205 pounds), freakish leaping ability (1,514 yards and 10 touchdowns during his All-American senior season in 2010) and breakaway speed (ran the 100m dash in a career-best 10.40 seconds in high school) that frankly can't be taught, the former Serra HS standout will not be a home run threat in the Trojans' offense in 2011, he'll be a grand slam.

Yet, despite all the hype and hoopla that has surrounded his leap to Troy over the last year, Farmer possesses something that may pay off more than his on-field attributes, the head on his shoulders. While most highly-decorated athletes would revel in the attention (recruited by LSU, Miami, Notre Dame, Oklahoma and just about every Pac-12 school) he received during the recruiting process, the Gardena, CA native remains humble, believing his flight to USC is nothing short of a dream.

"To tell you the truth, I couldn't have imagined this," Farmer said about the opportunity to play for the Trojans. "When I was younger, I use to look at the athletes that played here and thought how good they were and what it would mean to play for a school like USC. Even though I am here now, it still hasn't really sunk in yet that I am a part of it."

While the 15-mile trip up the I-10 freeway from his hometown made USC a logical choice from the beginning, the freshman insists his decision on where to take his talents had less to do with convenience and more to do with what college could provide him the best opportunity to grow both on the field and off it.

"This is a prolific school, where you can get a degree and take it anywhere you want and be set for life," said Farmer, who hopes to study a combination of physics, geography and engineering during his time at USC. "Also, playing under this program is like playing under an NFL program. They train hard in the weight room and work just as hard on the field."

Although it also doesn't hurt that his former Serra teammate Robert Woods found instant success as the Trojans' top receiver in 2010 (65 receptions, 792 yards and six touchdowns), Farmer is quick to brush aside comparisons between the two, because in his mind, both have the potential to become a unified force for the USC offense.

"To be talked about along side Robert says something, because it means people think you are a pretty good football player," said Farmer. "I am okay with being in his shadow, because that's not a bad path to take after the success he had here last year. Together though, our talents will hopefully bring this school more victories and a national championship. "

He may still be green in collegiate experience, but Farmer is already flashing veteran poise when it comes to understanding what it will take for him to help USC soar back atop college football's pantheon of champions.

"It starts with hard work, because success doesn't come naturally," said Farmer. Everyone out there is working, and when you are sitting down someone is out getting better. That's always been sense of motivation for me. I always want to be better than the guy next to me or my opponent. If I can do that, I think I can help this team win games."

(Courtesy of Anthony Watson/ ESPN LA)

Keyshawn's Home

By Jordan Moore on July 21, 2011 10:55 AM | No Comments

Former USC All-American WR Keyshawn Johnson, who grew up in the shadow of the Coliseum, is back home working for ESPN LA on a new NFL radio show.

"NFL @ L.A. with Keyshawn Johnson" will air on Sunday mornings from 8-9 during the offseason and 7-9 during the season. Dave Shore will co-host the 710 ESPN Radio show which debuts August 14.

Johnson played just two seasons at Troy, but amassed 2,796 yards and 16 TDs. In 1995, he caught a USC single-season record 102 balls. He was the #1 overall pick in the 1996 NFL Draft.

Earlier this year, Johnson spoke to the team after spring practice.

Better Late than Never

By Jordan Moore on July 21, 2011 10:20 AM | No Comments

Three months after the season, five Women of Troy water polo stars were honored as All-Americans after helping USC reach the NCAA tournament for the eighth straight season.

Senior Joelle Bekhazi (photo right) leads the way with her third consecutive selection. She was named a 2nd team All-American a year after grabbing first team honors en route to a Trojan national championship.

Click here for the full story!

Patricia Jancso (2nd team), Kristen Dronberger (3rd team), Nadia Dan (Honorable Mention) and Flora Bolonyai (Honorable Mention) joined Bekhazi on the All-American accolade list as voted by the Association of Collegiate Water Polo Coaches.

Summer 60: Chris Galippo

By Jordan Moore on July 20, 2011 4:40 PM | 3 Comments

Next up in the hot seat...senior linebacker Chris Galippo.

His answers don't need any added context. Pretty much, he only has eyes for himself and Matt Barkley. Kidding...well, sort of.

2011 Fall Camp Schedule

By Jordan Moore on July 20, 2011 2:55 PM | 3 Comments

Lane Kiffin released the 2011 fall camp practice schedule today. Of note...

Unfortunately, per NCAA sanctions, practices are still closed to the public. However, we'll bring you detailed practice reports, video interviews, photos, live chats and hopefully live stream some action for you, so stay locked in to USCTrojans.com/blog.

The practices are more spaced out this year with only two two-a-day sessions.

The annual kickoff BBQ "Salute to Troy" is August 21.

August 22 is the first day of school.

Here's the complete schedule...

Aug. 4-5-               7 p.m. practice
Aug. 6-7-               3 p.m. practice
Aug. 8-9-               7 p.m. practice
Aug. 10-                8:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. practices
Aug. 11-12-13-      3 p.m. practice
Aug. 14-                12:30 p.m. practice
Aug. 15-                no practice
Aug. 16-                3 p.m. practice
Aug. 17-                8:45 a.m. and 6 p.m. practices
Aug. 18-19-20-      3 p.m. practice
Aug. 21-                12:30 p.m. practice
Aug. 22-                no practice
Aug. 23-24-25-26-      7:45 a.m. practice
Aug. 27-                12:30 p.m. practice
Aug. 28-                practice (time TBA)
Aug. 29-                no practice
Aug. 30-31-Sept. 1-    7:45 a.m. practice

Discipline

By Jordan Moore on July 20, 2011 1:45 PM | No Comments

Lane Kiffin arrived in 2010 preaching discipline from day one. This week, Kiffin and AD Pat Haden stood behind those words by suspending Marc Tyler for the first game of the season and setting a no-nonsense tone across the program.

LA Times columnist Bill Plaschke jumped out in support of Kiffin and Haden in today's paper.

"Cheers to Lane Kiffin for rolling up his sleeves and scrubbing out this latest Trojans mess before it left a stain," he wrote. "If the coach is truly to keep USC's remodeled house clean, this is how it has to happen, quickly and decisively, with no concern for the sweat or the pain."

Plaschke continued by comparing USC's approach to its rivals.

"If nothing else, Kiffin's actions have taught us that USC now has possibly higher standards than venerable Notre Dame and lovable Oregon."

Haden did a podcast with Ted Miller from ESPN.com and explained the reasoning behind the suspension, including stating that they considered throwing Tyler off the team.

Fight on Jackson!

By Jordan Moore on July 20, 2011 10:35 AM | 3 Comments

A few months ago, we brought you the story of USC superfan Jackson Reece, who was battling aggressive, terminal brain cancer. Today, Jackson and his family found out the power of the Fight On spirit.

"Miracles happen. Yesterday Jackson was told by the doctors he was in remission!!!! Yes, remission!! We are over the moon and so grateful!" @FightonJackson tweeted.

The Trojan Family has supported Jackson's fight en masse and we are right there with them. Fight on Jackson!

Summer 60: Wes Horton

By Jordan Moore on July 19, 2011 3:22 PM | No Comments

We're debuting our first of many "Summer 60" interviews today as we fire fast-paced off-the-wall questions at the USC football stars.

Today, defensive end Wes Horton is in the hot seat.

(In case you forgot, Wes and Shane Horton's dad was an American Gladiator nicknamed "Gemini." Also, "Mondo" is Armond Armstead.)

Live Chat: Robert Woods

By Jordan Moore on July 19, 2011 11:06 AM | 2 Comments

Thank you for joining us for the Robert Woods live chat. Congratulations to the signed jersey winner.

Click below to read the replay transcript!

Morning Papers (7/19/11)

By Jordan Moore on July 19, 2011 10:28 AM | No Comments

Pac-12 football media day is a week from today...

The beat writers are focused on the aftermath of the Marc Tyler suspension. Gary Klein breaks down the situation.
Pedro Moura looks at who could step into Tyler's role.
Whitney Blaine has a timely place on the potential breakout season in store for D.J. Morgan.
Dan Weber would like to see T.J. McDonald step up as the face of the program.
Michael Lev is already focused on this season's football opponents. Coming off a loss to Notre Dame, the battle in South Bend should be fun.
Scott Wolf has a basketball note on the progress of Dewayne Dedmon.
The Sporting News is running an online fan college football poll. This is your chance to get USC into the top 25.
USC radio voice Pete Arbogast was elected to the Marshall High School Athletic Hall of Fame alongside three other men with ties to the Trojans, Bud Bradley (golf), Bob Kloppenburg (basketball) and the late Louis Wheeler (coaching).
The Daily Pilot featured USC swimming coach Dave Salo after he just signed a five-year extension.

2010 RB recruits Dillon Baxter and D.J. Morgan will get their chances to shine.

Robert Woods Live Chat

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 3:45 PM | No Comments

Freshman All-American WR Robert Woods will be stopping by the USCTrojans.com blog Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. pacific time for a live chat with YOU, the Trojan Family.

FREE GIVEAWAY: Robert will decide who asks the best question and the winner will get an autographed Woods' jersey.

Be there!

The Next Alex Morgan?

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 3:09 PM | No Comments

After goals in the Women's World Cup final and semifinal, Cal alum Alex Morgan is the rising star of U.S. women's soccer, but she was bested by a Trojan last fall.

Morgan netted three goals against the Trojans in a stunning 13 minute stretch last October, but USC won the game 5-4 in overtime behind then freshman Elizabeth Eddy's hat trick.

Now a sophomore, Eddy is part of the core of Ali Khosroshahin's talented 2011 roster, which kicks off camp August 3. They open the season on August 19 at McAlister Field versus Long Beach State.

Jean Agee Dies

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 1:51 PM | No Comments

Former USC women's basketball assistant Jean Agee, who helped coach the Women of Troy to the 1983 and 1984 national championships, is dead at the age of 74.

Click here for the full obituary.

Agee (left in the photo below) served under head coach Linda Sharp (right in the photo below) from 1978 to 1984 and worked with Trojan greats like Cheryl Miller, Cynthia Cooper and the McGee sisters.

A "Celebration of Life" reception will be held on Aug. 8 from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Brea Glenbrook Club (1821 Greenbriar Ln., Brea, Calif. 92821-5922, 714-529-8002).

Tyler Response

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 12:01 PM | 10 Comments

Here are the responses regarding Marc Tyler's comments to the media that were released on the internet last week:

USC HEAD FOOTBALL COACH LANE KIFFIN

"I was very disappointed when I learned of Marc Tyler's inappropriate comments that were captured by the media last week. That is not the way that we expect our players to represent USC and our team.

"I have consulted with athletic director Pat Haden and I am suspending Marc for our upcoming season opener and potentially further, and in the meantime I am also suspending him from all team activities.

"Although Marc may find this punishment severe, it is imperative we continue to have a high standard for player behavior. Marc needs to work hard to show us that he can meet the standards of being a USC football player."

USC ATHLETIC DIRECTOR PAT HADEN

"We have very high expectations for all of our student-athletes at USC. While the vast majority of our student-athletes act appropriately, Marc did not and stepped way out of line. He did not represent himself, his university or his team the way we expect. Marc has a lot to do to prove he belongs on our team. We hope Marc learns from this and comes back a changed and better person."

USC SENIOR TAILBACK MARC TYLER

"I want to apologize for embarrassing USC, my teammates and coaches. I am disappointed that I let down all the people who have supported me as I have been working through some personal issues. After meeting today with Mr. Haden and Coach Kiffin, I realize how my behavior and my statements, even though I was joking, can reflect poorly on so many people. As a veteran player, I should know that my job is to be an example for the younger guys. I accept my punishment and I regret that I will miss the opening game of my senior year. I am committed to doing everything the right way so that I can be reinstated to the team."

Cunningham Enshrined

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 10:35 AM | No Comments

Pioneering USC fullback Sam "Bam" Cunningham became the 37th Trojan enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend this past weekend.

Cunningham, an All-American and national champion in 1972, amassed 25 touchdowns in his three year varsity career, which he capped with a four TD Rose Bowl MVP performance.

While his on-field numbers pushed USC to 24 wins over his three seasons, his single game dominance against Alabama rocked the college football world. After Cunningham ran over the Tide for 135 yards and 2 TDs on just 12 carries, "Bear" Bryant decided it was time to integrate Southern football.

Camp Watch

By Jordan Moore on July 18, 2011 10:30 AM | No Comments

Another day, another watch list honor for Matt Barkley...

The USC QB heads (at least alphabetically) the Walter Camp player of the year award preseason list.

Barkley is one of 40 names on which the Camp folks are keeping an eye. Six Pac-12 stars made the cut.

Click here for the complete list.

USC football players have won six Walter Camp trophies since the award's inception in 1967. O.J. Simpson (1967-68), Charles White (1979), Marcus Allen (1981), Matt Leinart (2004) and Reggie Bush (2005) are past recipients.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

O'Brien Watch

By Jordan Moore on July 16, 2011 9:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Just when you thought Watch List week had officially concluded, another Trojan was named to a prestigious pre-season award list on Friday.

Junior Matt Barkley was selected as one of the top 38 Division I FBS quarterbacks to watch for this year's Davey O'Brien Award (the nation's top quarterback).

In 2010, Barkley was honored as a semifinalist for the award- which eventually went to Auburn's Cam Newton (who wasn't even on the 2010 Davey O'Brien Watch List).

Despite having two Heisman Trophy quarterbacks (Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart) since the award's inaugural year in 1981, a USC quarterback has never taken home the Davey O'Brien hardware.

And, of this year's 38 pre-season quarterback candidates, five (Barkley, Andrew Luck, Darren Thomas, Nick Foles and Jordan Wynn) hail from the Pac-12 conference.

Click here for the full list.

Looking Towards London

By Jordan Moore on July 15, 2011 1:22 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Former Trojan Rebecca Soni has already claimed three medals (one gold and two silver) in her Olympic career, but with the London Games just a year away now, the world record holder in the 100m and 200m breaststroke is keeping an eye towards the future.

Check out this video of Soni and former Cal swimmer Jessica Hardy at the 2011 Santa Clara Grand Prix.

(Video Courtesy of Pac-12)

On The Way

By Jordan Moore on July 15, 2011 11:52 AM | 2 Comments

One quick note for USC season ticket holders. For those who have ordered tickets for the upcoming 2011 football season, you should be receiving your ticket packages in the mail over the next few days, as they were sent out this week.

Only 50 days until the season kicks off!

Fall Q&A's: Mick Haley

By Jordan Moore on July 15, 2011 11:34 AM | No Comments

Last year, the USC women's volleyball team came within a match of the NCAA title game. We caught up with head coach Mick Haley this week to see what his expectations are heading into the 2011 campaign.

Dave Dulberg (DD): When you look back at last season and the team's eventual loss to California in the Final Four, would you still consider 2010 a success?

Mick Haley (MH): I think last season was successful. Our goal is always to get to the Final Four, because we think if we can get there we have a chance to win it all. The way the committee structured the tournament (team had to fly twice to Dayton, OH) was very difficult for us. And I think looking back we might have actually overachieved. We accept any challenge, and I don't mean to make excuses. But considering all of that and the youth of our team we had a pretty good finish.

DD: You lost three seniors (Geena Urango, Kimmie Roleder and Zoe Garrett) to graduation, but for the most part last year's young nucleus remains for another season. Who are the leaders you are expecting to step in order to make another championship run in 2011?

MH: We will be a different team this year. The question is how good a team will we be? And I don't think we will know that until the end of October or November. The people we need to count on our seniors- middle blocker Lauren Williams, outside hitter Alex Jupiter and setter Kendall Bateman. Those three are our leaders.

DD: Would you say you have more depth on this team than you did last year?

MH: Absolutely. We didn't have any back-up for Kendall Bateman last year like we do in freshman Haley Crone. That's why Kirby Burnham had to give up playing the left side last year to essentially become our back-up setter. That's how good last year's team was. But this year we are about two or three deep at ever position. Now it will just be about seeing how the cream rises.

DD: What is an off-season like for your team as they try and build upon last year's success?

MH: I think when we move to the off-season we de-emphasize team, and we emphasize individual improvement. Everyone has a chance to focus on themselves to see how much better they can get with their techniques, skills and physical strength, Typically, during spring we then bring the team back together, but with the advent of sand volleyball our strategy will change.

DD: Staying on the topic of women's sand volleyball, are you happy that it got introduced as a new sport at USC or are you worried it could cause injuries to your participating players?

MH: Well, I know that some of our indoor players with want to play outdoors. We feel like middle blocker Alexis Olgard got injured going from indoor to the sand one week and the coming back indoor the next. We aren't quite sure how to access the transition yet, it's really uncharted waters. I don't think sand is a bad thing, and I know there are a lot of players who will be good in the sand. USC will be competitive right away. And ultimately, we believe it's an additional opportunity for women's volleyball and that's why we support it.

DD: When you look at your 35-year coaching career (four National Championships, over 1,000 wins and a successful stint as the coach of Team USA at the 2000 Olympics), is there anything else you want to achieve on an individual level?

MH: There is nothing I have to achieve. But, we have a new team coming in here. Every year it's about seeing how good can you really be. The challenge is to see if you can change what you're doing to match-up with your talent, to the point you can maximize everyone's ability level, get the team to be cohesive and develop a system that can be competitive against every team you face.

DD: Finally, how long do you see yourself continuing to do this?

MH: The the best part about this job is the challenge every year. This is fun, I can't see myself not doing this. I get excited every morning to come work for this university but have never viewed it as a job. I will do this until I am physically unable to anymore.

Alex Jupiter (below) is expected to be one of USC's main leaders in 2011.

(Photo by Daily Trojan)

Linebacker U

By Jordan Moore on July 14, 2011 4:26 PM | No Comments

Chris Galippo is looking to add his name to the list of great USC linebackers this season. The senior's name is already posted on the 2011 Butkus Award watch list given to the nation's best linebacker.

Download the complete list.
Butkus Award 2011 Watch Lists.pdf

Chris Claiborne (1998) is the only Trojan to win the Butkus, which has been around since 1985.

(Photo by LA Times)

Sport #21: Women's Sand Volleyball

By Jordan Moore on July 14, 2011 3:27 PM | 2 Comments

Women's sand volleyball officially became USC athletics' 21st sport today and Anna Biller Collier has been hired to build the program from scratch. USC women's sand volleyball will begin NCAA competition in the spring of 2012.

"I think we have found the right person in Anna for the start of our sand volleyball program here at USC," said women's indoor head coach Mick Haley, who will oversee the sand program. "We have a coach who has invested over 30 years in the sport and possesses the passion we believe is needed here. We plan on giving her the support needed to be successful right away. We are excited to get the players here in the fall and start training."

Click here for the full story.

Collier, a USC alum (class of '77), has been a beach volleyball coach since 1990. She's led teams to multiple Olympic games and has worked with stars such as Misty May-Treanor, Kerri Walsh, Holly McPeak and many others.

"I am extremely excited about returning to my alma mater and coaching the first women's sand volleyball team," Collier said. "It feels like home."

McKay Center Summer Progress

By Jordan Moore on July 14, 2011 2:22 PM | 2 Comments

A year from now, we'll be preparing to move into our new home, the John McKay Center. You can get live updates on the buildings progress here.

Here's a look at what the building looks like today compared to April 1 (bottom photo)...

The Next Big Thing

By Jordan Moore on July 14, 2011 11:26 AM | 1 Comment

The hype machine is running wild for USC men's basketball big man Dewayne Dedmon and head coach Kevin O'Neill has no intention of slowing it down.

"He has a chance to be special,'' O'Neill told ESPN.com's Andy Katz. "He has three years left. He won't make it three years. He may not make it past one.''

Click here for Katz's full story.

We'll get a nice sneak preview of Dedmon and the other new Trojans (C James Blasczyk, PF Aaron Fuller, SF Byron Wesley, SG Greg Allen and PG Alexis Moore) during the 10 additional practices this July and August thanks to the Brazil trip.

International Polo

By Jordan Moore on July 14, 2011 10:08 AM | No Comments

USC men's and women's water polo champions are playing globally this summer in several different international competitions.

Jovan Vavic will send seven pupils (5 women and 2 men) to the FINA World Championships in Shanghai and three players to the World University Games also in China.

Click here for the complete list.

Three women's water polo talents will also play in the FINA Junior World Championships this fall in Italy.

Live Chat: Pat Haden

By Jordan Moore on July 13, 2011 11:53 AM | 2 Comments

Read the replay of Pat Haden's live chat with the Trojan Family below.

We're sorry we could not answer every question, but we're taking some of the leftovers and adding them to the next "State of Troy." Thanks for the great support and interest!

2011-12 USC Men's Hoops Schedule

By Jordan Moore on July 13, 2011 11:19 AM | 5 Comments

USC men's basketball head coach Kevin O'Neill has lined up a daunting slate for the 2011-12 Trojans as they face nine non-conference games against major conference opponents and the first year of the Pac-12.

Download the complete official 2011-12 USC men's basketball schedule!
2011-12 Schedule.pdf

The Trojans made the NCAA tournament last year largely because they scored quality wins over Texas and Tennessee before league play. The bar will be raised even higher this season as USC seeks a fifth NCAA berth in the last six years.

Galen Center will play host to showdowns against Kansas, Georgia, TCU, Nebraska and New Mexico. Returning guards Jio Fontan and Maurice Jones will be expected to steady the Trojans in hostile road atmospheres at San Diego State, UNLV and Minnesota.

Over Thanksgiving, USC could face likely preseason #1 North Carolina in the Las Vegas Invitational.

And in conference, the Trojans host every Pac-12 team except the Oregon schools. USC trips to every opponent save for Utah and Colorado.

Meet Maria in St. Louis

By Jordan Moore on July 13, 2011 10:47 AM | No Comments

Recent Trojan graduate Maria Sanchez is taking her tennis talents to St. Louis as part of the World Team Tennis pro league and she has big shoes to fill.

Coming off a season as USC's #1, Sanchez was called into the Aces squad a week ahead of schedule to replace former world #1 Lindsay Davenport. Click here for the full story.

The Aces are coached by Rick Leach who was a two-time NCAA doubles champion (1986-87) and four-time All-American at USC. He is also the son of legendary Trojan tennis coach Dick Leach, who won four national championships at Troy, and the husband of Davenport, who is a native Los Angeleno.

So, the Trojan Family runs deep through St. Louis this summer as Sanchez and Leach lead the Aces in the World Team Tennis Pro League.

Pat Haden Live Chat

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 3:57 PM | 2 Comments

USC athletic director Pat Haden will be live chatting right here on the blog with the Trojan Family Wednesday at 2 p.m. pacific time.

All are welcome. Ask any and as many questions as you want. Get the answers you have been craving straight from the AD.

We'll see ya Wednesday at 2!

Capturing the Imagination

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 3:11 PM | No Comments

The U.S. women's soccer team is the talk of the sports nation this week after their dramatic last second game-tying goal and penalty shootout victory over Brazil.

Former USC national champion Amy Rodriguez is expected to lead the line again Wednesday morning at 8:30 a.m. pacific on ESPN for the semifinal match-up with France.

A U.S. win could mean a final rematch against Sweden.

Media Guide: Web Version

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 2:06 PM | No Comments

The 2011 USC football media guide has been uploaded to USCTrojans.com.

Click the link to download the PDF!

The hard copies are at the printer and will be available for $20 in early August (we'll make another announcement when they're ready). You will be able to purchase them at the USC Bookstore, Sports Information or by sending in a check (3501 Watt Way, Heritage Hall 103, Los Angeles, CA, 90089-0601).

A sneak peek at the cover...

Celebrate Salo

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 12:09 PM | 1 Comment

USC men's and women's swimming head coach Dave Salo was given a 5-year contract extension today.

Click here for the full story.

Salo led the women's squad to an impressive third place finish at nationals with Katinka Hosszu setting the pace as the best swimmer in the country. The men's team came in a strong seventh at NCAAs under his guidance.

"I am proud of the improvements we have made and quite eager to continue progressing in this direction," Salo said. "The vote of confidence from Pat Haden and (senior associate athletic director) Donna Heinel on the job that we are doing is greatly appreciated. It's great to be a Trojan!"

Unrivaled

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 11:07 AM | No Comments

Rivals.com named USC football the top recruiting power in the nation over the last 10 years and Ed Orgeron the second best recruiter in the country over that time.

The recruiting database is celebrating a decade of existence by ranking the best teams and coaches over that span. The Trojans have had top 10 classes in nine of the 10 years and four #1 classes.

Orgeron has gained a reputation as a recruiting guru with tours of duty at Troy at the beginning and end of the last decade. He was Rivals.com national recruiter of the year in 2004.

Morning Papers (7/12/11)

By Jordan Moore on July 12, 2011 10:30 AM | No Comments

Plenty of good summer reading...

An NFL scout on Matt Barkley: "I've heard the comparison to Troy Aikman and I think it is valid." Here is a scouting breakdown of Barkley, Andrew Luck and Landry Jones, who are regarded as the top three quarterbacks in the country.
Reggie Bush talked to SportsCenter about regretting the decisions he made at USC.
Sam "Bam" Cunningham's big day is coming up this weekend as he is set to be enshrined into the College Football Hall of Fame. They did a feature story on the legendary fullback.
This is a cool interview done by ESPNLA.com with former Trojan hoops star Nick Young about learning the game on the street courts of Los Angeles.
Former USC PG Gabe Pruitt is playing with Young and other local LA hoop talents in the Drew League this summer. Pedro Moura caught up with him.
Trojans on Trojans. USC alum Adena Andrews profiled former Trojan track star Carol Rodriguez as she races for Puerto Rico.
Jerry Crowe tells the amazing story of Ambrose Schindler, who helped USC football win the 1939 national championship.
The LA Times ranked USC football the fourth most popular sports entity in Los Angeles and Trojan hoops came in 12th.
Michael Lev rated Matt Barkley as the most indispensable Trojan for the 2011 season.
Steve Bisheff questions if Barkley deserves all the preseason hype.

Schindler is 94. (Photo by LA Times)

Bright Future

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 3:30 PM | 2 Comments

Former USC baseball player Grant Green won the Larry Doby Award as the MVP of the Futures Game Sunday night in Arizona as they kicked off the All-Star festivities.

Green cracked a pair of doubles and drove in a run for the United States Team to lead the 6-4 win over the World Team.

Click here to see Green's RBI double complete with Aaron Boone's prideful Trojan commentary!

The A's shortstop prospect is hitting .288 at AA for the Midland RockHounds.

Click here for the full story.

Hubbs Named Pitching Coach

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 2:29 PM | No Comments

Dan Hubbs, who was a former All-American closer at USC, will return to Troy as Frank Cruz's pitching coach this season after 12 years in the same role at Cal.

Click here for the complete story.

Hubbs will also fill an associate head coach role under Cruz, who was an assistant at USC during Hubbs' final collegiate season.

"We are delighted to welcome Dan Hubbs back to the USC baseball program," said Cruz. "He did an outstanding job developing his pitching staffs at California and we know he'll do the same thing for us at USC."

In his time at Berkeley, Hubbs was known for breeding power arms, including cultivating staffs that broke the school's single-season strikeout record three times.

As a player, he set the since-topped USC single season saves mark with a national best 18 in 1993.

Hansen Medalists

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 1:47 PM | No Comments

The Pac-10 Tom Hansen Conference Medals are given annually to the member institutions best male and female student-athletes as far as combining athletic and scholarly achievements.

USC seniors Murphy Troy and Lizette Salas were honored this year by the conference.

Troy was the men's volleyball national player of the year, while Salas became a women's golf four-time All-American. Plus, they were both superstars in the classroom.

Thorpe Watch

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 1:24 PM | No Comments

T.J. McDonald continues to collect preseason watch list honors as the Jim Thorpe Award named him one of the best 37 returning defensive backs.

Click the link for the complete release.
2011 Thorpe Watch List Release.pdf

McDonald is one of only four Pac-12 players on the list.

Mark Carrier collected USC's only Thorpe Award in 1989, but Troy Polamalu (2002) and Taylor Mays (2008) were finalists. The award has been around since 1986.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

T-15

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 11:10 AM | 1 Comment

Four-time USC All-American golfer Lizette Salas completed a grueling U.S. Women's Open with a strong tied for 15th finish after shooting six-over par through 72 holes.

Salas turned in the top performance of her young career in only her second major. She failed to make the cut as an amateur in last year's Open.

Click here for the full story and see how other Trojans fared.

"It was a great experience. I felt very comfortable out there, considering I've been a pro for a month," said Salas. "I wasn't the longest hitter out there but I was still able to score. All in all, it was a good start for my career and definitely a confidence booster as I just competed with the best players in the world."

Farmers

By Jordan Moore on July 11, 2011 10:36 AM | No Comments

A two-sided headline...

First, the U.S. Davis Cup showdown went the way of the Spaniards, but USC star Steve Johnson undoubtedly gained valuable experience preparing Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish and the Bryan brothers for battle.

The photo below was tweeted out by the Bryans, who are Stanford alums just like the man in the middle, Bradley Klahn.

Johnson is returning for his Senior year in the hopes of matching Stanford's Paul Goldstein's feat of four NCAA team titles in four years. The Bryan brothers contributed to two of those national crowns before turning pro.

And second, you can likely see Johnson next at the Farmers Classic at UCLA starting July 25. The collegiate singles champ is hoping to earn a wild card into the event or he'll go through the qualification process.

Strong Start

By Jordan Moore on July 8, 2011 11:55 PM | No Comments

Four-time USC All-American golfer Lizette Salas is off to a fast start at the 2011 U.S. Women's Open after carding an even par 142 through 36 holes which places her in a tie for 10th.

Salas was just four strokes off the pace when Friday's play was suspended due to darkness.

She opened the LPGA major with a 2-under 69 on Thursday at the toughest annual test in women's golf. She shot a 73 on Friday at Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, CO.

You can watch Salas (rocking her USC polo) compete for the U.S. Open crown Saturday and Sunday on NBC.

Davis Cup

By Jordan Moore on July 8, 2011 2:01 PM | 1 Comment

The Davis Cup is the premier international team tennis tournament and several Trojans are participating for their countries.

As per usual, national collegiate singles champion Steve Johnson leads the way as he gets his first call up from captain Jim Courier for the United States team as a practice partner for Andy Roddick, Mardy Fish and the Bryan brothers.

The USTA did a Q&A with Johnson to discuss his first Davis Cup experience.

The quarterfinal is in Roddick's hometown of Austin, TX. He invited the team over to his house for the 4th of July and made the four rookies entertain the vets with a hot dog eating contest.

"It was all in good fun," Johnson told USTA.com. "I ended up winning; it was the first to finish five hot dogs. When Andy has an idea, he goes with it and makes sure it happens. I was just trying to force them down. The biggest bummer, though, was not being able to enjoy the gourmet food at the house afterwards because I was so full."

The U.S. is taking on Spain in the main draw, but several other Trojans are representing their countries in the qualifying rounds for next year's Davis Cup.

Jaak Poldma (Estonia), Emilio Gomez (Ecuador), Cecil Mamiit (Philippines) and West Nott (Pacific/Oceania) are in action this weekend.

Signing Day '71

By Jordan Moore on July 8, 2011 11:22 AM | 2 Comments

National Signing Day is an annual college football holiday these days, but it was a bit quieter back in 1971 when Pat Haden and J.K. McKay inked their names on Trojan letterhead.

"There was no Internet. There was no demand. You did not turn over hats," Haden described earlier this year. "You just kind of decided. There was not a 'Signing Day.' I was recruited by all the schools, but it was not anything like it is today."

At the time, Haden was living with the McKay's, so it was an awkward situation when the greatest coaches in the country, legends like Alabama's "Bear" Bryant, Nebraska's Tom Osborne and Notre Dame's Ara Parseghian, would deliver their recruiting pitches with USC's legendary head coach sitting upstairs.

"My dad always told me I could go wherever I wanted," J.K. McKay tells the story. "We were seriously considering Notre Dame. When my dad got wind of that, he told me, 'Johnny, you can go anywhere you want, but I need the quarterback.'"

Here is a photo from 1971 passed on to us by reader Mark Jones from coach McKay's book...

Hoops Camp

By Jordan Moore on July 8, 2011 10:51 AM | No Comments

USC basketball is running a day camp for kids of all ages (pre-K to 12th grade) from August 1 to August 4 at Galen Center.

Click here to register or e-mail for more information.

Young hoopsters will get the best coaching in Los Angeles from Kevin O'Neill and a staff of current and former players and coaches. You can work on individual skill development, team competitions and get inside access to the USC program.

Plus, you get a FREE Nike tee-shirt. Open to boys AND girls!

Must Watch

By Jordan Moore on July 8, 2011 9:57 AM | No Comments

Watch list week concludes with Trojans drawing attention from the Outland Trophy (the nation's top interior linemen on either side of the ball) and the Bronko Nagurski Trophy (the nation's top defender).

LT Matt Kalil and G/C Khaled Holmes made the preseason list for the Outland. They are USC's only two returning offensive line starters.

The Pac-12 had nine of the 65 names with the Big Ten leading the way. Defensive ends are not eligible for this award.

Click here for the full list.

In 1967, Ron Yary won USC's only Outland Award. He was a two-time All-American offensive tackle who went on to be the first overall pick in the 1968 draft.

T.J. McDonald's strong spring forced his name onto the Nagurski Watch List of 87 defensive standouts.

A Trojan has never won the award. The Pac-12 ranked fifth among conferences with nine names on the Nagurski list.

Click here for the full list.

(Photos by Jon SooHoo)

Pick-up Game

By Jordan Moore on July 7, 2011 3:36 PM | No Comments

As the NBA lockout begins, the best basketball games are at Galen Center these days. Last night, a group of pros got together to hoop it up on USC's practice courts.

Hornets forward Trevor Ariza, T'Wolves PF Michael Beasley, Warriors SF Dorell Wright and Grizzlies PG Marcus Williams were among the talents to participate.

Ariza, Wright and Williams are all Los Angeles products, while Beasley's closest connection to the Trojans came in 2008 when his Kansas State team knocked USC out of the NCAA tournament.

Smart Jocks

By Jordan Moore on July 7, 2011 2:12 PM | 1 Comment

If you have ever read a playbook, you would never call a football player dumb. They are expected to not only memorize their every responsibility, but execute the plan at high speed and adjust on the fly.

After interviewing Christian Tupou, who excels in the classroom as well as on the gridiron, LA Times writer Matt Stevens breaks down football IQ and the stereotypes associated with the culture in today's paper.

Here's an interesting quote from Tupou on the time demands required to have high football intelligence:

"The coaches are with us two hours every day teaching [during camp] -- and that's not enough. So in class, we're thinking about it. When we're lifting weights, we're thinking about what they've told us to expect. I'm thinking about it all day."

Click here to read more.

Eyes Wide Open

By Jordan Moore on July 7, 2011 10:19 AM | 3 Comments

Another morning, another watch list... The good news is that everybody seems to have their eyes on the Trojans this year.

Freshman All-American Robert Woods has drawn the attention of the Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the top wide receiver in the country each season.

Coming off team-leading marks of 64 catches and 786 receiving yards as a neophyte, Woods is named among the 75 best pass-catchers in the nation headed into 2011.

Click here for the full list.

Despite receiving greats like Lynn Swann, Keyshawn Johnson and Mike Williams, USC has never had a Biletnikoff Award winner.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Mr. Trojan

By Jordan Moore on July 6, 2011 3:27 PM | No Comments

At 95, Nick Pappas is a living history of Troy. During his 59 years of service to USC, Pappas played the role of student-athlete, coach and administrator.

From 1935-37, he filled the tailback position for Howard Jones and led the team in rushing in his first season. After a brief professional career with the Hollywood Bears, he returned to his alma mater as a coach.

He guided the freshman teams in 1939 and 1940 and then worked under Jess Hill as an assistant from 1953 to 1956. In the photo to the right from 1951, Pappas, the football alumni president at the time, is the second man in from the left peering over Hill's shoulder as he signs his new contract alongside then university president Fred Fagg.

Pappas transitioned into a pioneering administrative role as the creator of athletic support groups for the department and much of the scholarship fundraising system that is still in place today. For all his work, he was inducted into the USC Hall of Fame in 1997.

He remained an active member of the department until 2004. When he retired, he was the longest tenured employee at USC.

While he dedicated his life to his university, he risked it for his country in World War II. Pappas earned the Navy's Silver Star for his heroism at the "Battle of Okinawa."

After his destroyer, the USS Drexler, was hit by a Japanese kamikaze attack, he was blown into the sea as the ship took only a minute to sink into the Pacific. Despite injuries of his own for which he received a Purple Heart, he swam through burning oil to rescue two sailors by carrying them to rafts.

His grandson Geoffrey Arrobio emailed us two photos from his grandfather's archives.

The top picture is from the Doheny Library. The second photo features Pappas, John McKay and former USC QB Craig Fertig from 1988. Below from left to right, Harold Drury, "Bear" Bryant, McKay, John Hubbard and Pappas embrace at the John McKay Golf Invitational in 1972. (Click to enlarge all three photos.)

Save the Dates

By Jordan Moore on July 6, 2011 2:02 PM | No Comments

Football season is getting closer by the day.

20 days away...

The conference kick-off party known as Pac-12 Media Day will be held this year at the Fox Studio Lot in Los Angeles on Tuesday, July 26.

28 days away...

Move-in day! The team gets situated in their fall camp dorm on Wednesday, August 3, which means lots of pictures of big men carrying big mattresses.

29 days away...

Football practice begins. The first live day of fall camp is Thursday, August 4.

59 days away...

Less than two months now until kickoff! Minnesota at USC on Saturday, September 3, to officially get the 2011 started. Do you have your tickets yet?

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Vote Ian

By Jordan Moore on July 6, 2011 12:57 PM | 1 Comment

With just a day left in the voting, former USC right-hander Ian Kennedy is still trailing in the race for the final NL All-Star spot.

He needs the support of the Trojan Family! Vote here!!

Kennedy is enjoying a breakout season with the Diamondbacks, who are hosting the midsummer classic next Tuesday.

"I would be honored to make the team, especially to have the chance to pitch in front of our fans at Chase Field," said Kennedy.

Time to rock the vote...

Mackey List

By Jordan Moore on July 6, 2011 10:19 AM | No Comments

During spring football, Lane Kiffin commented that USC's tight end group exemplifies the depth and talent that the head coach is looking to build at every position.

While the coaches are excited about the young trio of Christian Thomas, Xavier Grimble and Randall Telfer, senior Rhett Ellison is the undisputed leader of the unit. His work ethic, skills and determination have drawn national notice from the Mackey Award, which honors college football's top tight end every season.

Ellison was one of 34 players listed on the Mackey Award preseason watch list. Click here for all the names.

In 2007, Fred Davis became USC's first and only Mackey Award winner.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

50 Years of Traveler

By Jordan Moore on July 5, 2011 2:48 PM | 2 Comments

2011 marks the 50th anniversary of Traveler as USC's mascot.

Noble and powerful, Traveler has symbolized USC football over the last half century. The snow white steed gallantly gallops around the Coliseum to celebrate every Trojan touchdown with "Conquest" as its eternal soundtrack.

In 1961, Richard Saukko (photo right - click to enlarge) rode the original Traveler at a USC game for the first time after being persuaded by Bob Jani, then USC's director of special events, and Eddie Tannenbaum, then a student at Troy, after spotting him on the white horse at the Rose Parade.

Saukko performed the role as Trojan warrior for the next 27 seasons. Current rider Hector Aguilar is the seventh man to raise his sword atop Traveler.

Of course, the horses have come and gone as well. Traveler VII will lap the Coliseum in 2011 after every Matt Barkley touchdown pass. And, the breeds have ranged from Arabian to Tennessee Walker to Andalusian, but they are always pure white.

USC alumnus Bill Tilley, and his wife, Nadine, ensured the future of the Trojan mascot in 2004 by setting up a permanent endowment to support Traveler.

Click here to read Traveler's entire history.

Tracking A-Rod

By Jordan Moore on July 5, 2011 1:23 PM | 4 Comments

Amy Rodriguez and the U.S. women's national team are off to a 2-0 start at the Women's World Cup in Germany. They play Sweden tomorrow (11:45 pm pacific time on ESPN) for first place in their group, but they have already secured a spot in the knockout stage.

Before she left, the Trojan striker took USsoccer.com back to USC for a tour. Rodriguez led the Women of Troy to the 2007 national championship, the first women's soccer crown in school history, but she is still around campus finishing up her degree.

Click here for part one.

Here is part two which is more athletic based...

Eye on the Best

By Jordan Moore on July 5, 2011 11:46 AM | No Comments

The Maxwell Award, which is given to the best college football player in the nation each year, announced that Matt Barkley and Robert Woods made the initial 2011 watch list.

Click here for the full list.

Barkley and Woods are two of 66 student-athletes that have drawn national attention from the Maxwell Football Club. The Pac-12 has 11 players on the list, which ranks second behind the SEC's 12.

While the Maxwell list is comprised entirely of quarterbacks, running backs and receivers, they also announced the Chuck Bednarik Award watch list, which names the early frontrunners for national defensive player of the year.

USC safety T.J. McDonald was one of 65 players named.

(Photo by Jon SooHoo)

Summer Break

By Jordan Moore on July 5, 2011 10:25 AM | 1 Comment

Good morning Trojan fans!

First off, a big thank you to Dave Dulberg for keeping you all informed while I was across the pond. Dave will be with us all year long as a contributing writer and reporter, so you will read plenty more of his stuff.

As he mentioned, I was on a bit of a tennis pilgrimage to Wimbledon, but the blog was never far from my mind. On my day at the hallowed lawns, I ventured out to Court No. 14 to cheer on former USC men's tennis national champion Robert Farah.

Farah lost in the qualifying round in men's singles, but he made the third round of the gentlemen's doubles main draw alongside fellow Colombian Juan Sebastian Cabal. Farah and Cabal took the first set last Tuesday, but after a lengthy rain delay, they were knocked out of the tournament in four sets.

Here are some Sam Tulin photos of the Trojan tennis hero living out his Wimbledon dreams...

Happy 4th of July!

By Jordan Moore on July 4, 2011 8:59 AM | 3 Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

On behalf of everyone here at USCTrojans.com, I would like to wish all of the readers out there a very Happy 4th of July.

Jordan will be back tomorrow from his week away at Wimbledon, so enjoy the rest of your holiday weekend and check out this 25-year-old photo of former Trojans Randy Johnson, Mark McGwire and manager Rod Dedeaux dawning the Stars and Stripes at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, CA.

(Photo by SI.com)

Rock The Vote

By Jordan Moore on July 3, 2011 5:25 PM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Former USC right-hander Ian Kennedy entered the 2011 season as the Opening Day starter for the Arizona Diamondbacks. While neither the team nor their No.1 starter entered the season with much fanfare surrounding them, three months into the season Arizona and their scrappy 26-year-old ace are both well exceeding expectations.

Yet, despite eight wins, an ERA of 3.38, 103 strikeouts and a 1.14 WHIP, Kennedy's breakout season will need a little extra recognition from the fans in the coming week, if he is to pitch in his home ballpark (Chase Field in Phoenix, AZ) for the 82nd Major League Baseball All-Star Game on July 12.

The fourth-year pitcher was left off Bruce Bochy's NL squad on Sunday, despite the fact he has anchored a Diamondbacks' rotation that has the team five games above .500 and in the hunt for either the NL West Division lead or the NL Wild Card spot half way through the season.

The former Trojan still has a chance to make the team though, as he was selected as one of five nominees for the 2011 MLB All-Star Game Final Vote. Fans have until Thursday, July 7, at 1 PM Los Angeles to choose Kennedy as the National League's final selection. His fellow nominees are Shane Victorino (Phillies), Todd Helton (Rockies), Andre Ethier (Dodgers) and Michael Morse (Nationals).

Click here to vote for Kennedy.

(Photo by AP)

Duda's Delivering

By Jordan Moore on July 3, 2011 9:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

With a litany of injuries plaguing the New York Mets (41-42) this season, it seems just about everyone of the team's highly-touted AA or AAA prospects has been given a chance to make it in the city that never sleeps in 2011.

Some have had their cups of coffee and quickly fizzled weeks later, and then there are those like former USC first baseman/left fielder Lucas Duda (2005-2007) who have seized every opportunity to compete at the big league level.

While his numbers (.239 batting average, six doubles and 10 RBIs) through 28 games may not be considered eye-popping upon first glance, the former CIF-SS Division I Player of the Year (2004) is beginning to become a regular fixture on the Metropolitans' nightly lineup card.

In the absence of offensive threats like five-time All-Star David Wright (third baseman) and Ike Davis (first baseman), Duda has picked up the slack in the Big Apple over the past 10 days. In his last 28 plate appearances, the Fontana,CA native has collected 11 hits and six RBIs, while raising his average 80 points.

Last Saturday against the Rangers, Duda (97th Trojan to play at the big league level) had a career night with four hits, three doubles and a team-high four RBIs in the Mets' 14-5 road win. With the power-hitting prowess of Davis likely shut down for the season (potential microfracture surgery), the first baseman job looks to be Duda's to lose as Terry Collins' squad makes a run at the wild card spot in the National League.

Duda might not take home any postseason honors as the league's top rookie when all is said and done, but nonetheless it's nice to see a former Trojan not only survive but thrive in the harsh sports climate of New York City.

(Photo by Mets 360)

Boxberger Breezes

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 3:47 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Currently, the Carolina Mudcats (Cincinnati Reds' Double-A Affiliate) are a Southern League-worst 26-52, with only one bright spot to really boast about all season.

That lone bright spot has come by way of former USC hurler Brad Boxberger.

Now a reliever at the minor league level, Boxberger has been almost unhittable in 2011. In 30 appearances this season, the Reds' supplemental first-round pick in 2009 has a whopping 1.31 ERA, 50 strikeouts and a .845 WHIP in 34-plus innings of work. It should also be noted, that the former All-Pac-10 right-hander (2008) has three saves and a measly opponent batting average of just .157.

For his astounding work out of the pen, Boxberger was honored twice over the past 10 days.

First, on June 22, the Tustin, CA native participated (Mudcats' lone representative) in the Southern League's annual All-Star Game in Jackson, TN, pitching two-thirds of inning while recording one strikeout.

Earlier this week, Boxberger was promoted to Triple-A Louisville by the Reds' organization. In his first appearance for the Bats on Wednesday night, the former- CIF Division II Player of the Year came on in relief of former MLB 20-game winner Dontrelle Willis. Despite inheriting two of Willis' runners with just one out, Boxberger got out the seventh-inning jam in just 10 pitches (seven of which went for strikes).

(Photo via Carolina Mudcats)

Samoan Homecoming

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 2:00 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Earlier in the day we provided you with a link by ESPN LA's Pedro Moura regarding the surname change of USC running backs coach Kennedy Pola.

Pola, a native of Pogo Pogo, American Samoa, made the decision during a trip this past week to his homeland. He was joined by the several Trojans for the 4,780-mile trip including: USC center Khaled Holmes, former NFL tight end Alex Holmes, Arizona Cardinals' guard Deuce Lutui and Cincinnati Bengals' linebacker Rey Maualuga.

And of course, 2010 NFL Defensive Player of the Year award-winner Troy Polamulu (Pola's cousin).

While the trip was a homecoming of sorts, Polamulu's foundation sponsored a football camp this past week (June 28-30) for Samoan youths, with the hopes that the camp goers would not only learn American football rules but also the importance of making positive choices in their day-to-day lives.

"I am excited to return to my homeland," Polamulu said in an open letter to Governor Togiola Tulufono before arriving. "I have been blessed with so much in my life and look forward to sharing my experiences."

Although the camp was initially scheduled for 600-700 kids, reports are that the camp numbers wildly exceeded their expectations.

Quite the homecoming for Polamalu and Co.

(Video via Troy Polamulu's twitter)

Learfield Directors' Cup

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 12:00 PM | 1 Comment

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

The Learfield Directors' Cup was established in 1993 as a joint effort between The USA Today and the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics (NACDA) as a means of measuring on-field success for all NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III and NAIA schools.

The award is calculated by a points system, which determines rankings based on how each institution finishes in 20 respective sports (10 men's and 10 women's).

For the seventeenth straight season, Pac-12 rival Stanford took home the Directors' Cup, but USC did finish No.14 in the standings with 990.25 points (4th best in the conference).

The only other Division 1 school to win the award was North Carolina during the cup's inaugural year (1993-1994).

Final Rankings

1. Stanford

2. Ohio State

3. California

4. Florida

5. Duke

6. North Carolina

7. Virginia

8. Texas A&M

9. Florida State

10.Oklahoma

11. UCLA

12. Texas

13. Penn State

14. USC

15. Michigan

16. Arizona

(Photo by OC Register)

A Trojan Promotion

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 11:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

We are extremely pleased to announce that longtime USC athletic department coordinator Donna Heinel, who has been actively involved in coordinating the admissions process for incoming Trojan student-athletes, has assumed the department's senior woman administrator role.

The SWA designation, developed by the NCAA for all institutions, is intended "to encourage and promote the involvement of female administrators in the decision making process in intercollegiate athletics."

Heinel (pictured right), who was not only a former collegiate swimmer but a UMass swimming and women's water polo coach, was very humbled and honored when she heard news that she would be taking over the position from her predecessor Carol Dougherty.

"I am extremely excited for the opportunity Pat Haden, Max Nikias and USC has really bestowed upon me. Along with the position I feel comes a great sense of responsibility, and I don't take that lightly. We are pushing through some challenging times right now, but I think just like a person or entity, our department is going through a stage right now full of life lessons and resiliency.

"I think over the next few years under the tutelage of Pat and a great senior administrative team of Steve Lopes, Mark Jackson, myself, Magdi El Shahawy, J.K McKay, Don Winston and Ron Orr, we will get through this. And everyone around the nation will see the power of the Trojan Spirit."

While Heinel has been given the SWA designation, she will still be overseeing the day-to-day operations of the director of admissions and eligibility. She hopes that with her new position she can promote USC as a thought leader and enhance the image of the department both to the Pac-12 and the NCAA.

Open For Business

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 10:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

33 years ago today member institutions Arizona and Arizona State joined the Pac-8 conference, to form what has become one of the most prestigious conferences (won 258 NCAA championships since 1978) over the past three decades.

Now, we can celebrate once again as the Pac-10 conference officially turns a page and begins a whole new chapter with the additions of Colorado and Utah.

Today, the conference carries on the traditions of the past with a new look and a new name, the Pac-12.

Pac-12 newcomers Colorado and Utah not only add to the conference's rich tradition of athletic (44 NCAA championships between the two) and academic success, but also an intense 57-game rivalry between the two dating back to 1903. Thanks to expansion, the two teams will meet on the football field in 2011 for the first time in 49 years.

As part of the celebration, governors from Colorado and Utah have decided to commemorate this new beginning by declaring July 1 as Pac-12 Day in each respective state. Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott will participate in a ceremony on the steps of Utah State Capital building with among others interim Utah President Lorris Betz and Athletic Director Chris Hill.

With expansion, the conference format will now be divided into two divisions, the Pac-12 North (California, Oregon, Oregon State, Stanford, Washington and Washington State) and the Pac-12 South (Arizona, Arizona State, Colorado, UCLA, USC and Utah.

For Trojan fans, USC football's first meeting with division foe Utah will be at 4:30 PT on Sept.10 at the Coliseum (TV-Versus). The Trojans will also travel to Boulder,CO this season to take on the Buffs in a rare Friday night (6:00 PM PT) clash on Nov. 4 (TV-ESPN2).

Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott explaining the conference's new division format

(Photo by AP)

Morning Papers (7/1/11)

By Jordan Moore on July 1, 2011 9:00 AM | No Comments

Written by Dave Dulberg, USC blog contributor

Happy Pac-12 Day...

The Pac-12 conference may revolutionize the way college sports are broadcast if they partner with Google or Apple, writes Jon Wilner of The San Jose Mercury.
Pedro Moura writes that USC running backs coach Kennedy Pola has officially changed his surname back to Polamulu upon returning home this past week to Samoa.
Michael Lev posted a report saying that sources close to Reggie Bush say the former USC running back has no plans to return his 2005 Heisman Trophy.
Ivan Maisel believes schools that reside in professional sports-dominated metropolitan markets like USC and UCLA, have a hard time selling football year after year.
SCPlaybook.com's Whitney Blaine interviewed members of the USC football, to see who their favorite athletes of the year are midway through 2011.
Marc Narducci says USA striker Amy Rodriguez's confidence comes from the recent success she has had for the Philadelphia Independence.

The Polamalu name is headed back to Troy.

(Photo by LA Times)

July 2011 Archives