USC TROJAN FOOTBALL has been a roller coaster ride.
But it is game 2 of the season in LA.
Its been a batty few years, since Pete left, to be precise.
Sanctions, #FireKiffen RANTS actual campaigns, LAX Departure papers
to an interim HC Ed Orgeron.
With a just over 2 weeks from the momentum changer, Coach O has brought back cookies, welcomed back the media, former players and inspirational ones. But if you saw them play Arizona, even more so the purpose, passion and love back to John McKay Center and the Coliseum.
Watching last Thursday nights game vs the Wildcats, I thought it's a WIN WIN for Coach O, if he doesn't get the job he's auditioning for a new one. Passion! Passion! Passion! Something I crave in sports with myself and as a spectator, just makes me tick!! Orgeron brought that in less than 10 days.
You've heard it before, but it is true, players take on the personality of their coach. Even Phil Simms on Inside the NFL touched on the importance of coaching, means a lot just look at The Chiefs and The Saints.
Marcus Allen #33 forever at USC, No introduction needed, SuperBowl Champ & MVP, 6 time Pro Bowler (which, by the way, is why I became a RB in 3rd grade) delivered 3 minutes of motivation pep pre-game last Thursday.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=QVBAihThfQU
On Monday 2 time SuperBowl Champ and 7 time ALL PRO Linebacker, the one and only, RAY LEWIS brought inspiration to the locker room.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ZXR4hdclnBE
The search? Vegas odds are at bay at present, obviously pending the outcome of each game, but I don't see any bashing from fans or the media if they continue to play behind this positive force and accountability.
Former players had told me (during the Lane era) that it wasn't USC football. After the annihilation in Arizona at Sun Devil Stadium which finally led to walking papers for Lane ( I however thought the last straw was Sun Bowl classless appalling conduct) heartbreaking to see those players beat, not just physically but emotionally. Simply exhausted with poor/limited rotations and looking hopeless
Not sure what will happen in South Bend Saturday, but with Marqise Lee questionable and a slew of backs bringing the run. Just to name a few; Tre Madden, Justin Davis, Javorious Allen, Silas Redd, Ty Isaac. (Which rings memories of McKay/Robinson era in addition to the name association with Allen and Davis). O-line opening up lanes and a determined passion instilled Defense. A QB, not the strength, however with a rushing game it opens it up for a manageable passing game, a balanced one.
Historical Note
• USC has not lost since 2001
• Only 2 USC coaches ( John Robinson and Paul Hackett) have beaten The Fighting Irish on their first meetings
• No USC Coach has won a debut at Notre Dame Stadium.
Could this be a first? Can the Trojans go into South Bend on the Kentucky Blue Grass
and get a W? I sure hope so!
Can emotion be a key factor?
"Emotion is highly overrated in football. My wife Corky is emotional as hell but can't play football worth a damn."
John McKay
Not sure but I think PASSION & Purpose can!
FIGHT ON!! TROJANS !
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