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Home , 2005 Orange Bowl, Alex Holmes, Brandon Hancock, Brennan Carroll, Chris Claiborne, Dallas Sartz

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN DEPARTMENT OF INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS • HER 103 • , CALIFORNIA 90089-0601 TELEPHONE: (213) 740-8480 FAX: (213) 740-7584 SPORTS INFORMATION OFFICE FOR RELEASE: Aug. 2, 2005 TIM TESSALONE, DIRECTOR

2005 SCHEDULE 2005 USC FOOTBALL NOTES DATE OPPONENT TIME Sept. 3 at Hawaii 1 p.m. (ESPN2) PRE-SEASON RANKINGS… Sept. 17 Arkansas 7:15 p.m. (FSN) The two-time defending national champion 2005 Trojans are the clear favorite to win the Sept. 24 at Oregon 4 p.m. (ABC) national title again, according to various pre-season prognosticators. Here’s a look: Oct. 1 at Arizona State TBA Oct. 8 Arizona TBA National Pacific-10 Oct. 15 at Notre Dame 2:30 p.m. (NBC) Athlon 1st 1st Oct. 22 at Washington TBA The 1st 1st Oct. 29 Washington State 12:30 p.m. (ABC) Street & Smith’s 1st 1st Nov. 5 Stanford TBA Phil Steele’s 1st 1st Nov. 12 at California TBA Lindy’s 1st 1st Nov. 19 Fresno State 7:15 p.m. (FSN) Blue Ribbon 1st 1st Dec. 3 UCLA 1:30 p.m. (ABC) Gold Sheet 1st 1st

2004 RESULTS …AND PRE-SEASON HONORS st (13-0 overall, 8-0 for 1 place in Pac-10) QB (Playboy, Athlon, The Sporting News, Street & Smith’s, Phil Steele’s, Lindy’s, 24 vs. Virginia Tech 13 Blue Ribbon), TB (Playboy, Athlon, The Sporting News, Street & Smith’s, Phil (at Landover, Md.) Steele’s, Lindy’s, Blue Ribbon), S (The Sporting News, Street & Smith’s, Phil 49 Colorado State 0 Steele’s), P Tom Malone (Playboy, Phil Steele’s) and WR (Athlon) have been 42 at BYU 10 named to various pre-season All-American first teams. TB LenDale White was a pre- 31 at Stanford 28 season All-American third teamer by several media outlets. Besides the above mentioned, 23 California 17 the following Trojans were selected to various pre-season All-Pac-10 first teams: OT Sam 45 Arizona State 7 Baker, CB , OG , DE , WR Steve Smith, OT 38 Washington 0 and S . 42 at Washington State 12 28 at Oregon State 20 49 Arizona 9 WATCH LISTS 41 Notre Dame 10 The following Trojans have made the official “Watch Lists” for national 2005 post-season 29 at UCLA 24 awards, to date: 55 vs. Oklahoma 19 () QB Matt Leinart (top player) S Darnell Bing Thorpe Award (top ) RETURNING STARTERS (14) (top defensive impact player) (top defensive player) OFFENSE (8) Bednarik Award (top defensive player) QB Matt Leinart OT Sam Baker TB Reggie Bush Maxwell Award (top player) TB LenDale White OG Fred Matua TB LenDale White Maxwell Award (top player) WR Steve Smith C WR Dwayne Jarrett Maxwell Award (top player) WR Dwayne Jarrett OT Taitusi Lutui WR Steve Smith Maxwell Award (top player) C Ryan Kalil (top center) DEFENSE (5) S Darnell Bing DE SCHEDULE LB CB Justin Wyatt DE Lawrence Jackson USC will be challenged by a schedule that includes 6 opponents who played in bowls last season, with 4 who won at least 8 games. USC opens its 2005 slate at Hawaii on Labor Day SPECIAL TEAMS (1) weekend, then has a bye before hosting Arkansas (the schools’ first meeting since 1974) in P Tom Malone the Coliseum, where Troy has won its past 21 games (5 shy of the Pac-10 record). The Trojans then begin Pac-10 action by playing 4 of their next 5 games on the road, with a home OTHERS RETURNING WITH CAREER STARTS OT Winston Justice (23) contest versus Arizona sandwiched in the middle of trips to Oregon, Arizona State, intersec- TB (13) tional rival Notre Dame and Washington. USC then closes its regular season with 4 of its WR Chris McFoy (10) last 5 games at home (Troy has won a league record 15 consecutive Pac-10 home games) FB (9) by hosting Washington State for Homecoming and Stanford before going to California and TE (6) then coming home for non-conference foe Fresno State (the Bulldogs beat Troy in the 1992 FB (5) OG (4) Freedom Bowl in the only other meeting) and, after a bye, crosstown rival UCLA. This S Scott Ware (3) schedule should help USC once again be among ’s most popular draws. WR William Buchanon (3) Last season, the Trojans set a Pac-10 record for home attendance average (85,229), as TB Reggie Bush (2) well as school marks for total home attendance, overall attendance average and total overall LB Collin Ashton (2) attendance. QUOTING RETURNING TROJANS Fourteen starters (8 on offense, 5 on defense, plus the ) return in 2005. In all, 76 THE 2005 TROJANS squadmen are back from a year ago, including 58 who saw playing time (49 were lettermen and 28 were on USC’s season-ending 2-deep). On the roster are 24 Trojans who have “It’s an exciting challenge to be the re- started at least once in their career. Joining them will be 19 new scholarship players— turning national champion and we look including 3 who enrolled at USC this past spring and participated in spring practice—who forward to dealing with everything that comprise what some recruiting observers have ranked as the nation’s top class for the third goes with that. We’ll handle it well. Our approach will be the same as it always is. year in a row. Our goal always is to win the Pac-10 and win the . WIN STREAKS USC has the longest current Pac-10 win streaks for overall games (22), home games (a “We’re really proud of our recent accom- school-record 21, with 4 shuouts), Pac-10 home games (a school- and Pac-10-record 15), plishments. But we view those now as Pac-10 games (15) and road games (9). Troy’s 22-game winning streak is the longest things in the past. All indications are that current streak in the nation and is USC’s longest since a school- and Pac-10-record 25 we have been able to move forward. Our consecutive from 1931 to 1933. The 21-game home winning streak is approaching the Pac- focus is on the 2005 season. 10 mark of 26 by California, 1919-23. The 15-game Pac-10 win streak is USC’s longest “Our primary objective will be to recap- since a school-record 19 consecutive in 1987-89 (the Pac-10 mark is 22 by Cal, 1947-50). ture the intensity and competitive atmo- The 9-game road winning streak (which does not include 3 neutral site victories during that sphere that we’ve had the past few years span) is the Trojans’ longest since a school-record 12 in a row in 1978-80 (which did not here. If our returning players and the include 2 neutral site wins). group of outstanding new players we have coming in can do that, then we have a HIGH RANKING chance to have another good season. USC has been ranked in the AP Top 10 for its past 31 games, its longest string since 34 in a row in 1978-80. The Trojans have been in the AP Top 5 in 33 of the last 35 polls (not “We have grown comfortable with being including pre-season polls). USC has been AP’s No. 1 team in the last 17 polls (not in this environment, with all this attention on us. We’ve been there. We went including pre-season polls), tying a school and Pac-10 record and also the third longest through the whole season last year as the streak in AP history (the record is 20 by Miami from 2001 to 2002, followed by Notre Dame’s nation’s No. 1 team. We deal with that kind 19 from 1988 to 1989). In its history, USC has held the AP No. 1 spot (again, not including of thing as we deal with everything, by pre-season polls) for 62 weeks; only 4 other schools have done so more often (Notre going about our business in a normal fash- Dame’s 89, Oklahoma’s 86, Ohio State’s 67 and Nebraska’s 65). ion. We aren’t concerned with the hype and the future. We’ll just try to prove our RECORD WHEN NO. 1 worth week to week. I love that kind of USC has a 49-4-2 (.909) record in games when it is ranked No. 1 by AP. When a No. 1- challenge. We have to see if we can do it. ranked Trojan team faced a ranked opponent, it has gone 17-2-1 (.875), with the losses “We don’t know yet how we are going to versus Oklahoma in 1963 and Alabama in 1977 and the tie with Oklahoma in 1973. When do. But I do know how we are going to a No. 1 USC squad played an unranked opponent, it went 32-2-1 (.929), with the losses at attack the challenges. Knowing that, I like Oregon State in 1967 and versus Arizona in 1981 and the tie with Stanford in 1979. our chances of being a really good team again this year. WIRE-TO-WIRE NO. 1 In 2004, USC became only the second team ever to be ranked No. 1 in the AP pre-season “In previous years, we have shown the poll and hold that top ranking the entire season (Florida State did it in 1999). Four other ability to deal with the loss of great play- teams—Notre Dame in 1943, Army in 1945, Nebraska in 1971 and USC in 1972—were No. ers. I’m confident we have the personnel 1 in every regular season ranking, but either did not start off No. 1 in the pre-season poll who will seize their opportunities and step up, especially among our new and (Nebraska and USC) or there was no pre-season poll (Notre Dame and Army). our younger players. This kind of an an- nual challenge is what makes college foot- BACK-TO-BACK AP CHAMPS ball so much fun. USC’s back-to-back AP national championships in 2003 and 2004 marked the 10th time that a team won consecutive AP national championships. The others: Minnesota (1940-41), “From start to finish, we realize this is a Army (1944-45), Notre Dame (1946-47), Oklahoma (1955-56), Alabama (1964-65), Nebraska very demanding schedule. We’ll have to (1970-71), Oklahoma (1974-75), Alabama (1978-79) and Nebraska (1994-95). No team be at our best each game because we has ever won 3 consecutive AP titles. know our opponents will fire their best shots at us. But if you’re a USC fan, or just a college football fan, we think it’ll be fun 13-0 to watch us play. We’re counting on get- USC posted its first-ever 13-win season in 2004. ting the same kind of fan support we had last year, especially at home when the PERFECT SEASONS Coliseum was so electric and we had such USC had its eighth perfect (unbeaten, untied) season in 2004. The others: 1888 (2-0), 1889 a home field advantage, to help us be suc- (2-0), 1894 (1-0), 1920 (6-0), 1932 (10-0), 1962 (11-0) and 1972 (12-0). cessful again.” USC’S WINNINGEST 3 AND 2 YEAR SPANS USC’s 36 wins over the past 3 years (11 in 2002, 12 in 2003 and 13 in 2004) represent the winningest 3-year period in Trojan history. The previous best 3-year stretch was 31 victories, on several occasions. Also, USC’s 25 wins during the past 2 years (2003-04) is its best 2- USC PRE-SEASON PRACTICE SCHEDULE/ year span. The Trojans have been on quite a run lately: 3 straight BCS bowl wins, a current PLAYER, COACH INTERVIEW AVAILABILITY streak of 22 victories in a row (and 33 in the last 34 games), 3 consecutive Pacific-10 titles, an unprecedented 3-year sweep of rivals UCLA and Notre Dame, an active string of 15 The Trojans will conduct all 4 weeks of their straight Pac-10 conquests, 2 of the last 3 winners, and 11 first team All- 2005 pre-season practices on the USC cam- Americans in the past 2 years. pus. Drills begin Aug. 4 and lead up to Troy’s Sept. 3 opener at Hawaii. Player and coach USC’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS interviews are available following any of the USC has won 11 national championships in football: 1928-31-32-39-62-67-72-74-78-2003- practices. Contact the USC Sports Informa- 04. In 5 other years (1929-33-76-79-2002), the Trojans were picked by some as No. 1, but tion Office for further details. the selectors were deemed not all-encompassing enough to claim a legitimate national crown. QUOTING PETE CARROLL USC’S PAC-10 TITLES After sharing the Pac-10 championship in 2002, USC won the 2003 Pac-10 title outright (its THE OFFENSE first outright crown since 1989) and again in 2004. That’s the first time that USC won 3 “We return lots of starters and key play- consecutive Pac-10 titles since 1987-88-89. USC has now won title 34 times, ers from an offense that was very pro- twice as much as any other school. ductive last year. We were a very diverse, yet balanced and efficient, offense, and LAST YEAR we didn’t turn the ball over much. In 2004, USC went 13-0 overall (8-0 in the Pac-10) to post its first-ever 13-win season. Troy became only the second team ever to hold its AP No. 1 ranking from the pre-season all the “But we’re still young and developing on th this side of the ball. We need to work way through the entire season. USC captured its 11 national title when it demolished No. hard to maintain our production level and 2 Oklahoma, 55-19, in the BCS Championship Game in the Orange Bowl. Troy outscored to improve our depth. There will be some opponents by nearly 26 points a game, including a school-record 8 games with a margin of spirited competition to get into the play- at least 30 points. Defensively, the Trojans were in the national Top 10 in every statistical ing rotation at many positions. I anticipate category, including first in rushing defense and turnover margin. a lot of players seeing action and contrib- uting on offense. GONE FROM 2004 “The offense should be improved over USC’s personnel losses from 2004 are significant (27 squadmen are gone, including 19 last year. Our confidence on this side of lettermen and 9 starters), particularly on defense. Gone are 4 defensive All-American first the ball is high.” teamers: tackles and Mike Patterson and and . Last year, Cody and Patterson were USC’s first pair of defensive line All- THE DEFENSE Americans since 1969 and Cody was USC’s first-ever defensive lineman to be named Pac- “We were a very dominating defense last 10 Defensive Player of the Year. Between them, they had 7 years of starting experience and year. But this year we have some big is- posted 29 tackles for loss and 16 sacks in 2004. Patterson was an NFL first round pick and sues to deal with because of the loss of a Cody was a second rounder. Grootegoed, a 4-year starter like Cody, had 222 career tackles pair of All-American defensive tackles and (41.5 for losses) and 6 . Tatupu, who declared for the NFL following his 2004 another pair of All-American linebackers. junior season (he was a second round selection), was USC’s leader the past 2 So that’s our focus defensively, as well as seasons (he had 202 total stops after transferring from Maine). Also missing on defense is developing depth at every position, espe- cially at cornerback. 2-year starting free safety (he had 9 career interceptions) and cornerback Eric Wright (2 picks in 2004). USC’s offensive losses are more manageable. They include tight “Our defensive philosophy will remain the end , who had 82 career catches, plus fullback and 350-pound guard same: play fast, play aggressively and take John Drake. But three-year is gone after leading the Pac-10 in away the football. Our defense is struc- scoring in 2004, as well as setting the Pac-10 career record for PATs (176) and the USC all- tured to play solidly and make it hard for time points mark (329). people to score.”

THE SPECIAL TEAMS ASSISTANT COACHES Besides trying to replace some talented departed players from 2004, USC lost several key “We should be strong in special teams assistant coaches: (same job with the Tennessee Ti- again this year. How can you not be when tans), assistant /defensive line coach/recruiting coordinator (head you have Reggie Bush returning punts and coach at ), offensive line coach Tim Davis (same position with the Miami Dol- kickoffs and you have Tom Malone being such a weapon as a punter? They’ve both phins) and coach Carl Smith (offensive coordinator with the Jacksonville Jag- already been recognized as All-Americans uars). So, head coach Pete Carroll adjusted his staff by giving wide receivers coach Lane for their performances on special teams. Kiffin the additional duties of offensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator, re-hiring Oak- But the key is developing a new land Raiders assistant as quarterbacks coach and also making him as- placekicker. If we can do that, we have a sistant head coach (he was on the USC staff for Carroll’s first 3 seasons), elevating Ken chance to be as effective overall as last Norton Jr. to full-time status as linebackers coach (with returnee ) and hiring a year’s special teams.” pair of NFL assistants in defensive line coach Jethro Franklin from the and offensive line coach Pat Ruel from the . Former USC and NFL line- USC PRE-SEASON PRACTICE SCHEDULE backer joined the staff as a graduate assistant working with the special teams Aug. 3—players report and defense and ex-Division I-AA All-American David Watson came from Michigan State to Aug. 4-5-6-7—veterans practice at 8:45 a.m., be an offensive line graduate assistant, while former special teams graduate assistant newcomers at 3 p.m. Dennis Slutak became director of football operations. They will join the 3 other holdovers Aug. 8—full team practice at 8:45 a.m. (first from the staff: Greg Burns (secondary), (tight ends) and Todd McNair day of pads) (running backs). Aug. 9-11-13-16-18—full team practices at 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. (second practice on 18th will be in evening) ACADEMICS Aug. 10-12-14-15-17-19-20-21—full team Among the top scholars on the 2005 Trojan squad are: S Ryan Ting (team-high 3.90, practice at 3 p.m. (practice on 14th will American studies and ethnicity), FB Brandon Hancock (3.89, communication), S Brandon be in evening, on 20th will be at 4 p.m., on Ting (3.76, American studies and ethnicity), TE Nick Vanderboom (3.55, business adminis- st 21 will be open to the public at 1 p.m. in tration), WR John Zilka (3.41, business administration), LB Clay Matthews (3.22), OT the Coliseum) Jonathan Richert (3.11, history), QB Tom Harwood (3.06, business administration), TB Aug. 22—no practice Aug. 23-24-25-26-27—full team practice at 4 Andre Woodert (3.04, kinesiology), OG Jeff Byers (2.98, business administration), PK Phil p.m. (practice on 27th will be at 1 p.m.) Mellinger (2.97, mechanical engineering), OT Thomas Herring (2.91), CB Jim Abbott (2.91), Aug. 28—no practice WR Wil Smith (2.88, public policy, management and planning), P Sean Limahelu (2.85, Aug. 29-30-31—full team week-of-game anthropology), FB Mike Brittingham (2.82, business administration) and FB Jody Adewale practice at 4 p.m. (2.80, psychology). Both Tings made the 2004 Pac-10 All-Academic second team, while Aug. 30—first Pete Carroll weekly media lunch at 11:30 a.m. Vanderboom made honorable mention. Hancock, a member of Phi Beta Kappa (the nation’s Sept. 1—full team week-of-game practice in oldest honor society), was a 2003 CoSIDA Academic All-District VIII first team and Pac-10 All- early afternoon, then depart at 6 p.m. for Academic first team selection. In its history, USC football has produced 22 Academic All- Hawaii game American first teamers (tops in the Pac-10 and sixth in the nation), 20 NCAA Post-Graduate Note: Schedule subject to change. Practices Scholarship winners, 12 National Football Foundation Scholar-Athletes, 5 NCAA Silver Anni- generally run 2 hours. versary Award winners, 4 NCAA Today’s Top Six winners, 1 Rhodes Scholar and 1 Academic All-American Hall of Famer. PETE CARROLL Tom Malone and Matt Leinart–were first team All-Ameri- It didn’t take energetic and charismatic fifth-year USC head football cans (Leinart and Williams finished sixth and eighth, respectively, coach Pete Carroll long to restore the glory of the Trojan football in the Heisman Trophy voting). For all this, Carroll was named the program and return Troy to national prominence. He is 42-9 (82.4%) 2003 Coaches Association Division I-A Coach as a college head coach (all at USC). His losses were by a total of of the Year, Home Depot National Coach of the Year, Maxwell Club 42 points (4.7 average) and only 1 was by more than a College Coach of the Year, ESPN.com National Coach of the Year, (it was by 11 points). After starting off his Trojan career 2-5, he has Pigskin Club of Washington D.C. Coach of the Year and All-Ameri- gone 40-4 (90.9%). He is 28-5 in Pac-10 games, giving him an can Football Foundation Co-Coach of the Year. He 84.8% winning mark (a league record). He is 13-0 in November. also was the Pac-10 Co-Coach of the Year (USC’s first honoree His teams have posted 6 shutouts and have scored at least 20 since Larry Smith in 1988), a finalist for the Paul “Bear” Bryant points in the last 39 games (a school record). USC’s 13, 25 and 36 Coach of the Year, 1 of 6 semifinalists for the Eddie Robinson/ wins over the past 1, 2 and 3 years represent the winningest 1-, 2- Football Writers Association of America Coach of the Year and and 3-year periods in Trojan history. USC is riding a 22-game American Football Coaches Association Division I-A Region 5 winning streak (as well as 21 straight home games, a Pac-10 record Coach of the Year. In early 2004, he received the Chuck Benedict 15 consecutive league home games, 15 straight Pac-10 games Founders Award (for special achievement) from the Southern and 9 road games in a row). USC has been AP’s No. 1 team for a California Sports Broadcasters Association, the Orange County school-record 18 straight polls. He also serves as USC’s defen- Youth Sports Foundation Sportsman of the Year Award, the Spirit sive coordinator. He was the 2005 Playboy Pre-Season All-Ameri- of Los Angeles Award from the Los Angeles Headquarters Asso- can team Coach of the Year. ciation and the Vincent T. Lombardi Hall of Fame Award from the —In 2004, he guided No. 1-ranked USC to its second con- Boy Scouts of America San Gabriel Valley Council. secutive national championship with a convincing win over Okla- —In 2002, just his second season at USC, his Trojans thrived homa in the BCS Championship Game in the Orange Bowl. USC despite playing what was ranked by the NCAA, Sagarin and the became only the second team ever to hold its AP pre-season No. 1 BCS as the nation’s most difficult schedule (facing 9 AP-ranked ranking all the way through a season. It was only the 10th time that teams and 11 bowl squads). USC—which beat Iowa in the Orange a team won back-to-back AP crowns. His team was 13-0 (a school Bowl—posted an 11-2 overall record and a No. 4 ranking in the final record for wins) and went 8-0 in the Pac-10. He also led the Trojans polls, and won the Pac-10 championship while going 7-1. The to their third consecutive Pac-10 title and their third straight season Trojans also won their last 9 home games. It was USC’s first 11- sweep of traditional rivals UCLA and Notre Dame (a first at Troy). win season since 1979 and its highest ranking since 1988. Troy Troy was in the national Top 10 in every defensive statistical cat- won its final 8 games (scoring at least 30 points in each), including egory (its total defense average was USC’s lowest in 15 years), blowouts of traditional rivals UCLA and Notre Dame (the first time including first in rushing defense and turnover margin and third in USC beat both in the same season since 1981 and the first time in scoring defense. USC outscored opponents by 25.2 points (in- back-to-back games since 1978). USC led the Pac-10 in total of- cluding a school-record 8 games with a margin of at least 30 points). fense (449.3) and total defense (284.9), as well as scoring offense USC played before 3 home sellouts, 7 regular-season sellouts (35.8) and scoring defense (18.5), and was in the NCAA’s Top 25 in and 8 season sellouts, all school marks. And Troy set a USC and nearly every team statistical category on both sides of the ball. Pac-10 record for home attendance average, as well as school Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback and safety records for total home attendance, overall attendance average and were first team All-Americans. Carroll was 1 of 8 total overall attendance. A school-record 6 Trojans (Heisman Tro- finalists for the 2002 Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year Award phy quarterback Matt Leinart, tailback Reggie Bush, defensive line- and was 1 of 4 runners-up for the 2002 American Football Monthly men Shaun Cody and Mike Patterson, and linebackers Matt Schutt Sports Division I-A Coach of the Year Award. Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu) were named All-American first —Carroll brought big doses of experience, enthusiasm and teamers. He was the 2004 National Quarterback Club College leadership in his quest to revive the USC football program when he Coach of the Year and a finalist for the 2004 Coach of was named the Trojans’ head football coach on Dec. 15, 2000 (he the Year Award, the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award and signed a 5-year contract). After USC started off his opening 2001 the ESPY Best Coach of the Year Award and a semifinalist for the season slowly at 1-4, Carroll stayed the course and got his troops George Munger Coach of the Year Award. He was the 2004 to rally by winning 5 of their last 7 games (including the final 4 ESPN.com Pac-10 Coach of the Year. regular season contests) to finish at 6-6 overall. USC, which won —The 2003 season–his third at Troy–was one of the best in its last 5 Pac-10 games after beginning league play at 0-3, placed USC history. The Trojans won the AP national championship (USC’s fifth in the conference at 5-3 and earned a berth into the Sega Sports first national crown since 1978) and entered the Rose Bowl also . Putting an exclamation point on the regular sea- ranked No. 1 in the USA Today/ESPN poll but weren’t allowed to son was a 27-0 blanking of No. 20 UCLA, USC’s first shutout in the keep the top spot after winning that bowl because of a contractual crosstown rivalry since 1947 and the series’ biggest margin of vic- agreement which required the coaches to vote the Sugar Bowl win- tory since 1979. ner as their poll’s champion (USC ended up second). USC was —The 53-year-old Carroll has 30 years of NFL and college 12-1 overall (the only loss was by 3 points at California in triple experience, including 14 on the college level. He was the head ) and, at 7-1 in the Pac-10, Troy won its second consecu- coach of the NFL’s for 3 seasons (1997-99) tive league title for the first time since 1988-89 (and its first outright and for 1 year (1994). He guided the Patriots into the crown since 1989). His Trojans won their last 9 games and posted playoffs in his first 2 seasons, winning the AFC Eastern Division back-to-back seasons of double digit wins for the first time since title at 10-6 in 1997 and advancing to the second round of the play- 1978 and 1979. For just the second time in history (the other time offs, then posting a 9-7 regular season mark in 1998. His overall also was 1978 and 1979), USC swept traditional rivals UCLA and record in New England was 27-21 in the regular season (including Notre Dame in consecutive years. His 2003 squad featured a po- 8-8 in 1999) and 1-2 in the playoffs. He owns the franchise’s sec- tent offense, a stingy defense and productive special teams. USC ond-best winning percentage (54.9%). After serving as the Jets’ had a stretch of 11 consecutive 30-point games (also a school for 4 seasons (1990-93), he became the mark) and 7 straight 40-point contests (a Pac-10 record). USC’s team’s head coach the following season. His 1994 Jets went 6-10. 534 points was a Pac-10 record. The defense led the nation in Only 3 other Jets head coaches won more games in their rookie rushing defense and was second in turnover margin, forced 42 campaign. He spent the next 2 years (1995-96) as the defensive turnovers and scored 8 . And the Trojans topped the coordinator with the 49ers, who won the NFC West- nation in net punting. Five Trojans– Mike Williams, ern Division title both seasons. The 49ers were 11-5 in the 1995 offensive tackle , defensive end , punter regular season when they had the NFL’s top-ranked defense and then went 12-4 in 1996. Carroll began his coaching career at the 25.2 points a game last year, including a school-record 8 games college level, serving as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, with a margin of at least 30 points. Three Trojans—White, Bush Pacific, for 3 years (1974-76), working with the wide receivers and and Jarrett—scored at least 13 TDs in 2004, a first at USC since at secondary. He then spent a season as a graduate assistant work- least 1931. Six Trojans had 20-plus catches in 2004 and all 8 of ing with the secondary at Arkansas (1977) under as the USC’s running backs who carried the ball last fall averaged at least Razorbacks won the 1978 Orange Bowl, and then a season each 3.9 yards per carry. And USC’s line allowed less than 2 sacks a as an assistant in charge of the secondary at Iowa State (1978) game in 2004. Not only was the Trojan offense high-powered in under (the Cyclones played in the 1978 Hall of Fame 2004, but it was explosive: of USC’s 78 offensive scoring drives, 50 Bowl) and at Ohio State (1979) under Bruce. That Buckeye squad took less than 3 minutes (including 32 under 2 minutes). lost to USC in the 1980 Rose Bowl. He next spent 3 seasons (1980-82) as the defensive coordinator and secondary coach at LEINART North Carolina State, then returned to Pacific in 1983 as the assis- Two-time All-American first team quarterback Matt Leinart (269-of- tant head coach and offensive coordinator. He entered the NFL in 412, 65.3%, 3,322 yards, 33 TD, 6 int in 2004, plus 3 rush TD), the 1984 as the defensive backs coach of the , then held a 2004 Heisman Trophy winner, returns for his senior season. He’ll similar position with the for 5 seasons (1985- attempt to become just the second player ever to win a pair of 89). The Vikings advanced to the playoffs his last 3 years there, Heismans (along with Ohio State’s ). He’s also a can- getting to the NFC Championship game in 1987. The 1988 team didate for the O’Brien and Unitas Awards, as well as a third season was 11-5 in the regular season and the 1989 squad won the NFC as an All-American. This past January, Leinart decided to return to Central Division crown with a 10-6 mark. His secondary averaged USC instead of declare early for the NFL draft. The 2-time Pac-10 25 interceptions a season and led the NFL in passing defense in Offensive Player of the Year is 25-1 as a USC starter. His 71 career 1989. Carroll spent the 2000 season as a consultant for pro and touchdown passes are 1 shy of Carson Palmer’s USC record (sixth college teams, doing charitable work for the NFL and writing a col- on the Pac-10 ladder) and he ranks fourth on the Trojan all-time umn about pro football for CNNSI.com. lists for completions (524), passing yardage (6,878) and total of- —Carroll was a 2-time (1971-72) All-Pacific Coast Conference fense (6,772). His career TD/ ratio is 71/15. He has free safety at Pacific and earned his bachelor’s degree in 1973 in thrown at least 1 TD in all but 1 of the 26 games he has started (the business administration. He received his secondary teaching cre- first 24) and at least 2 TDs in all but 3 games (he had a string of at dential and a master’s degree in physical education from Pacific in least 2 TDs in 15 consecutive games). He also has thrown at least 1976. He was inducted into the Pacific Athletic Hall of Fame in 3 TDs 13 times in his career (and at least 4 TDs 7 times, including 1995. After he graduated from Pacific, he spent a year trying out for 5 TDs on 3 occasions). He is averaging a TD pass every 11.5 the and selling roofing materials in the Bay career attempts. Last fall, he was seventh nationally in passing Area. He was a 3-sport (football, and ) standout efficiency (156.5)—with just 6 interceptions while completing 65.3% at Redwood High in Larkspur, Calif., earning the school’s Athlete of of his passes—and 25th in total offense (252.2). His 33 TD passes the Year award as a senior. He played quarterback, wide receiver in 2004 were second on the USC season list, his 269 completions and defensive back. He then played football at Marin Junior Col- were third, and his 3,322 passing yards and 3,278 yards of total lege in Kentfield, Calif., in 1970 (he also was on the team in 1969, offense were fourth. In 2004, he tossed 5 scoring passes against but did not letter). both Notre Dame (throwing for 400 yards) and in the Orange Bowl —He was born on Sept. 15, 1951 in San Francisco. He and his versus Oklahoma. Among his other 2004 honors: wife, Glena, who played at Pacific, have 3 children: sons and AP Player of the Year, winner, ESPY Best Male Brennan, 26, who played at Pittsburgh (he previously College Athlete Award, Sullivan Award finalist. He missed 2005 played at Delaware) and is now an assistant at USC, and Nathan, spring practice while recuperating from minor tendinitis surgery 17, and daughter Jaime, 22, who played on the Women of Troy’s performed in January on his left (throwing) elbow, but he‘ll be ready highly-ranked volleyball team which competed in the 2000 NCAA to go in the fall. Final Four. In 2003, he helped develop “A Better L.A.,” a non-profit group consisting of a consortium of local agencies and organiza- USC CAREER PASSING LEADERS tions working to reduce gang violence by empowering change in (Based of Number of Completions — Includes bowl games) individuals and communities. He received the Courageous Lead- ership Award from Women Against Gun Violence in 2005, as well PA PC INT NYG Pct. TD 1. Carson Palmer 1569 927 49 11818 .591 72 as being named a Cedars-Sinai Sports Spectacular Honoree. 2. Rob Johnson 1046 676 28 8472 .646 58 3. 1081 630 42 8225 .583 54 OFFENSIVE OVERVIEW 4. Matt Leinart 814 524 15 6878 .643 71 Eight starters return on offense in 2005: quarterback Matt Leinart, tailback LenDale White, wide receivers Steve Smith and Dwayne USC CAREER TOTAL OFFENSE LEADERS Jarrett, tackles Sam Baker and Taitusi Lutui, guard Fred Matua (Includes bowl games) and center Ryan Kalil. Others back with starting experience are tailbacks Reggie Bush and Hershel Dennis, tight end Dominique PLAYS RUSH PASS TOTAL 1. Carson Palmer 1824 -197 11818 11621 Byrd, fullbacks David Kirtman and Brandon Hancock, wide receiv- 2. Rodney Peete 1371 415 8225 8640 ers Chris McFoy and William Buchanon, tackle Winston Justice 3. Rob Johnson 1305 -576 8472 7896 and guard Jeff Byers. USC’s top 5 rushers (and 11 of its 14 4. Matt Leinart 895 -106 6878 6772 ballcarriers), its top 4 receivers (and 12 of its 15 pass catchers) and its top passer from last season return in 2005. The components OTHER QUARTERBACKS are in place to exceed last year’s potent offense, which was sixth In Leinart’s absence in the spring, sophomore nationally in scoring offense (38.2), seventh in passing efficiency got a good portion of the work and emerged with the No. 2 job. (157.4), 12th in total offense (449.1) and 13th in passing offense Booty redshirted last fall after bruising his right (throwing) elbow in (271.7). For each of the past 3 seasons, USC has produced at 2004 fall drills. He was Leinart’s backup in 2003 (he saw action in least 5,800 yards of total offense and 60-plus touchdowns. In fact, 5 games, completing 7-of-14 passes for 90 yards before breaking USC’s 5,838 yards of total offense last fall were just 2 yards shy of his left wrist) after becoming the first Division I-A football player to the school season record (set in 2002) and its 6.3 yards per play graduate a full year early from high school and enroll at a major was the second best mark in Trojan history (behind 2003’s 6.5). university. Untested sophomores Michael McDonald, the son of The Trojans have put up at least 20 points in their last 39 games ex-USC All-American quarterback Paul McDonald (a one-time walk- (including 28 times with 30 points). USC outscored opponents by on, he earned a scholarship this fall), and walk-on Tom Harwood are also available. Bolstering the signalcalling corps this fall as a nior David Kirtman (8 tcb, 45 yds, 5.6 avg in 2004, plus 19 rec, 161 freshman is prep All-American (Mission Viejo High yds, 8.5 avg, 1 TD and 1 tac) started 4 times in 2004 and also sees in Mission Viejo, Calif.), who was the national high school player of plenty of special teams work. And deceptively-fast junior Brandon the year in 2004. Hancock, the starting fullback in 2003, returns after redshirting last season while recuperating from knee and chest surgery. He caught WHITE AND BUSH 13 passes for 160 yards (12.3 avg) and 2 TDs in 2003. Both Kirtman USC features the top tailback duo in the nation, with the “Thunder and Hancock are outstanding blockers and pass catchers. Sopho- and Lightning” pair of juniors LenDale White (203 tcb, 1103 yds, 5.4 more Jody Adewale (1 rec, 16 yds, 16.0 avg in 2004) also will avg, 15 TD in 2004, plus 11 rec, 97 yds, 8.8 avg, 2 TD) and do-it-all compete for time at fullback, as will walk-ons Mike Brittingham (1 Reggie Bush (143 tcb, 908 yds, 6.3 avg, 6 TD in 2004, plus 43 rec, tac in 2004), a junior who sees action on special teams, and sopho- 509 yds, 11.8 avg, 7 TD and 24 PR, 376 yds, 15.7 avg, 2 TD and 21 more Sean Kelly. KOR, 537 yds, 25.6 avg and 1-of-1 passing, 100.0%, 52 yds, 1 TD). At least 1 of them has scored a touchdown in USC’s last 24 games SMITH AND JARRETT (including 11 times when they both scored). They have combined Much like its tailback position, USC might have the best pair of wide for 54 TDs in Troy’s last 26 games. Both are Award receivers in the land in steady junior Steve Smith (42 rec, 650 yds, and All-American candidates. 15.7 avg, 6 TD in 2004) and eye-opening sophomore Dwayne —The bull-like White, Troy’s rushing leader the past 2 years, Jarrett (55 rec, 849 yds, 15.4 avg, 13 TD in 2004). Both are Biletnikoff was USC’s 23rd 1,000-yard runner when he did so last season Award and All-American candidates. Smith was Troy’s third-lead- (1,103) and he became the first Trojan to lead the Pac-10 in touch- ing receiver in 2004 despite missing 5 mid-season games with a downs (17) since in 1981. He made the All-Pac-10 broken leg. He caught 3 TD passes against Oklahoma in the Or- second team in 2004. He has 28 rushing TDs in 26 career games ange Bowl. Jarrett was a Freshman All-American first teamer last (and 31 overall TDs), along with 8 games with 100 rushing yards year as he led the Trojans in receptions (55), receiving yardage (including 5 times in 2004). He already is 18th on USC’s presti- (849) and touchdown catches (13). His 13 TD grabs were 1 shy of gious career rushing list (with 1,857 yards). the school freshman mark owned by the player of whom he re- —The keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat Bush was a minded Trojan fans, 2003 All-American Mike Williams. He had 4 Heisman finalist in 2004 (he finished fifth) and earned All-American 100-yard outings in 2004. first team honors for his all-purpose play. He was in the nation’s Top 20 in 2004 in all-purpose running (179.2), punt retuns (15.7) OTHER WIDE RECEIVERS and kickoff returns (25.6). He scored 15 TDs and had 2,330 all- There is quality depth behind them, too. Junior Chris McFoy (21 purpose yards in 2004 (he has 3,661 in his career, averaging 10.3 rec, 272 yds, 13.0 avg in 2004) started USC’s first 9 games of 2004, yards on each of his 356 touches). He has produced touchdowns first for Jarrett and then for an injured Smith. Sophomore Whitney 5 different ways as a Trojan (rushing, receiving, kickoff returns, punt Lewis emerged from 2004 spring practice as a starter, but redshirted returns and passing). He has scored 23 TDs in his 26-game ca- last fall while academically ineligible. Then there’s a pair of se- reer (9 rushing, 11 receiving, 1 on kickoff returns, 2 on punt returns). niors in Greig Carlson (5 PR, 14 yds, 2.8 avg in 2004, plus 1 tac), He has 57 plays of 20-plus yards in his career. His 1,027 career who also can return punts (he led the Trojans in that category in kickoff is fourth on USC’s all-time list and his 380 2003), and one-time cornerback William Buchanon (4 rec, 15 yds, career punt return yards is 17th on USC’s all-time chart. He and 3.8 avg in 2004). Three walk-ons—senior Wil Smith, junior John Leinart were named the 2004 Pac-10 Co-Offensive Players of the Zilka and sophomore Brad Walker—also provide help. This fall, Year, but Bush was named USC’s team MVP. prep All-American (Goodpasture High in West Madi- son, Tenn.) enrolls as a freshman. REGGIE BUSH’S 2004 ALL-PURPOSE YARDS VS. ALL-PURPOSE HEISMAN WINNERS TIGHT ENDS Despite graduating 2-year starting tight end Alex Holmes, who had NAME SCHOOL YEAR YARDS YDS/GAME 82 career receptions, USC is still well-stocked at the position. In Reggie Bush USC 2004 2330 179.2 Nebraska 1972 2011 154.6 2005, the spot will be manned by senior Dominique Byrd (37 rec, Tim Brown Notre Dame 1987 1847 167.9 384 yds, 10.4 avg, 3 TD in 2004), who not only is an adept blocker Michigan 1991 1859 159.9 but a dangerous pass catching target (especially as a deep threat). He missed the first 4 games last fall because of a broken kneecap, OTHER TAILBACKS but was dominant upon his return, even making several spectacu- USC also can call on do-it-all sophomore tailback Desmond Reed lar one-handed clutches (think TDs versus Oregon State and Okla- (31 tcb, 173 yds, 5.6 avg, 1 TD in 2004, plus 3 rec, 0 yds, 0.0 avg and homa). He is a Mackey Award and All-American candidate. Angling 7 KOR, 150 yds, 21.4 avg and 1 PR, 16 yds, 16.0 avg and 1-of-1 for playing time are junior Nick Vanderboom, sophomores Dale passing, 100.0%, 55 yds and 5 tac, 1 for loss, 1 FF), who has Bush- Thompson (1 tac in 2004) and (4 rec, 30 yds, 7.5 avg in like skills. Reed made the 2004 All-Pac-10 second team as a 2004), and redshirt freshman Jimmy Miller. Entering the mix this special teams player. Senior Hershel Dennis (28 tcb, 109 yds, 3.9 fall as a freshman is prep All-American Charles Brown (Diamond avg, 1 TD in 2004), who started all of 2003, will redshirt this season Ranch High in Pomona, Calif.). after tearing knee ligaments prior to the Orange Bowl. He gained 661 yards on 137 carries (4.8 avg) with 4 TDs in 2003. Also looking OFFENSIVE LINEMEN to break into the tailback mix is freshman Michael Coleman, who Last year, the USC offensive line entered the season as a question graduated a semester early from Arroyo Valley High in San Bernar- mark because 4 starters had to be replaced. But the line exceeded dino, Calif., and enrolled at USC this spring. Two walk-on tailbacks— all expectations in 2004 (Troy ran for more than 2,300 yards and senior Andre Woodert (1 tcb, 4 yds, 4.0 avg in 2004) and sopho- Trojan quarterbacks were sacked less than twice a game). So, the more John Griffin (2 tcb, 9 yds, 4.5 avg in 2004)—are also avail- line should be a team strength in 2005. Four starters—tackles able. Sam Baker (a 2004 Freshman All-American first team pick) on the left side and 365-pound Taitusi Lutui on the right, 2-year starting FULLBACKS right guard Fred Matua and reliable center Ryan Kalil—return from Although USC lost starting fullback Lee Webb, an inspirational per- 2004 and all could be in line for post-season honors. The only loss former who went all out whether running, catching or playing on is 350-pound guard John Drake, who started most of the past 2 special teams, the Trojans are in good shape at that position. Se- years. Also back are tackle Winston Justice, a junior who started in 2002 and 2003 on the right side but sat out last season because of tackle Mike Davis and sophomore end Jeff Tola—are also avail- a student conduct violation (he emerged from 2005 spring drills as able. A trio of prep All-Americans—tackles Walker Lee Ashley (Eden the starter), and sophomore left guard Jeff Byers, who notched 4 Prairie High in Eden Prairie, Minn.) and Averell Spicer (Rancho late-season starts at guard in 2004 (he also played some at center Cucamonga High in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif.) and end Kyle last year). Byers, who made Freshman All-American second team Moore (Houston County High in Warner Robins, Ga.)—have a in 2004, likely will redshirt in 2005 while recuperating from a hip chance to contribute as freshmen upon their arrival this fall. injury. All of USC’s starting offensive linemen deserve All-American consideration in 2005. Other tackles competing for playing time LINEBACKERS are junior Kyle Williams and freshman Thomas Herring, who origi- Similar to the situation on the defensive line, USC lost 2 All-Ameri- nally signed with USC in 2004 as a defensive lineman out of Fre- can first team linebackers—Matt Grootegoed and Lofa Tatupu—so mont High in Los Angeles, Calif., but did not qualify for admission some younger players will need to step up. Grootegoed, a 2-time (he enrolled this past spring and participated in spring drills), while All-Pac-10 first teamer, had 222 career tackles (41.5 for losses) sophs and Alatini Malu and redshirt freshman Chilo and 6 interceptions while starting for 4 years. He was a Butkus Rachal will push for action at guard and sophomore Award finalist in 2004 when he had 68 tackles, 12.5 for loss and a will work at center after being switched from tackle. Walk-ons Ross team-high 5 interceptions. Tatupu was USC’s tackle leader the Burruel, a senior center, junior guards John Lanza and Dominique past 2 seasons (with 202 total stops) after transferring from Maine. Wise and junior tackle Jonathan Richert fill out the o-line corps. He had 104 tackles in 2004, with 13.5 for loss, 6 sacks, 3 intercep- Nick Howell (Bullard High in Fresno, Calif.), the son of ex-USC All- tions and a team-high 8 deflections. But he declared for the NFL American and NFL offensive lineman Pat Howell, comes aboard following his 2004 junior season and was a second round selec- as a freshman tackle this fall. tion. Senior Dallas Sartz (48 tac, 3.5 for loss, 1.5 sack, 1 int, 6 dfl, 1 FF in 2004) is the only starter returning among the unit. DEFENSIVE OVERVIEW He mans the strong side (he also started there the last 6 games in Five defensive starters return from 2004: safety Darnell Bing, line- 2003) and is a candidate in 2005. The replacements backer Dallas Sartz, ends Lawrence Jackson and Frostee Rucker, for Grootegoed on the weak side and Tatupu in the middle will and cornerback Justin Wyatt. Others back with starting experience come from a number of possibilities. Sophomores include safety Scott Ware and linebacker Collin Ashton. However, (25 tac, 3 for loss, 2.5 sack, 1 int, 1 dfl, 1 FF in 2004), who often the 2005 Trojan defense will be hard-pressed to repeat the suc- played as an end in pass rushing situations in 2004, and Thomas cess of last year’s stellar unit. After all, USC’s 2004 leader in each Williams (14 tac, 2 for loss, 1 sack in 2004) are outside lineback- defensive category—tackles, tackles for loss, sacks, interceptions, ers. Rivers likely will start on the weak side. The middle job will be deflections, recoveries and forced —is gone. Last contested between senior Ryan Powdrell, junior (13 year, USC ranked in the nation’s Top 10 in every defensive statisti- tac, 1 for loss in 2004) and even Williams. Senior Collin Ashton (16 cal listing: first in rushing defense (79.4) and turnover margin (+1.5), tac, 1 for loss, 1 sack, 1 FF in 2004), who also has handled the long third in scoring defense (13.0), sixth in total defense (279.3) and snaps, can play anywhere. Then there’s redshirt freshman walk- ninth in pass efficiency defense (101.3). It was the second con- on strongside linebacker Clay Matthews, the son of the ex-USC All- secutive year that USC led the country in rushing defense. Its 279.3 American and NFL linebacker of the same name. There are addi- total defense average and 4.3 yards per play allowed were Troy’s tional freshmen reinforcements this fall with the arrival of prep All- lowest since 1989. The Trojans were especially stingy late in Americans Luthur Brown (Lakewood High in Lakewood, Calif.), games, allowing only 26 fourth-quarter points in 2004. USC posted (Bergen Catholic High in Oradell, N.J.), Kaluka 50 sacks and forced 28 turnovers last season. Maiava (Baldwin High in Wailuku, Hi.) and (Eureka High in Eureka, Calif.). DEFENSIVE LINEMEN There are some big shoes to fill on USC’s defensive front. Two of DEFENSIVE BACKS Troy’s greatest defensive linemen are gone: tackle-end Shaun USC’s secondary is somewhat unsettled in 2005, with only 2 re- Cody and tackle Mike Patterson, who both won All-American first turning starters. Two-year starting free safety Jason Leach, who team laurels in 2004 (USC’s first pair of defensive line All-Ameri- had 9 career interceptions (he posted 51 tackles and 3 picks in cans since 1969). Cody was a 4-year starter who became the first 2004), and 2004 starting cornerback Eric Wright (2 interceptions in Trojan defensive lineman to be named Pac-10 Defensive Player of 2004) must be replaced. Hard-hitting junior Darnell Bing (63 tac, 8 the Year. The 2004 and Hendricks Award finalist, for loss, 0.5 sack, 2 int, 2 FF, 7 dfl in 2004), a 2-year starter at strong who blocked 5 field goals in his career, had 13 tackles for loss and safety, anchors the secondary. He’s a candidate for the Thorpe a team-best 10 sacks among his 45 tackles last fall. At times last Award and All-American honors. He was third on the Trojans in year, Cody lined up at end. Patterson, a 2-time All-Pac-10 first teamer, tackles and second in deflections in 2004, when he earned All-Pac- had a team-high 16 tackles for loss along with 6 sacks among his 10 second team notice. He has 132 career stops. Senior 45 stops last year (he also led the Pac-10 in fumble recoveries with cornerback Justin Wyatt (40 tac, 4.5 for loss, 1 int, 1 FF, 7 dfl in 4). Both were NFL draft picks, Patterson in the first round and Cody 2004), highly-regarded for his ability to shut down receivers, also in the second. But both starting ends return in sophomore Lawrence returns. The likely new starter at Leach’s free safety spot will be Jackson (32 tac, 11 for loss, 6 sack, 1 int, 1 dfl in 2004) and senior senior Scott Ware (16 tac, 1 dfl in 2004), who started 3 times there Frostee Rucker (29 tac, 7.5 for loss, 1.5 sack, 1 FR, 1 FF, 2 dfl in in 2004 when Leach moved to strong safety for an injured Bing. 2004). Jackson was a Freshman All-American first teamer in 2004, Also in the mix are sophomore (9 tac, 1 FR, 1 FF in while Rucker has 17 career starts. The fill-in at Cody’s tackle spot 2004), who can play at either free or strong, plus junior twins Bran- will be either senior LaJuan Ramsey (2 tac in 2004), junior Travis don Ting (1 tac in 2004) and Ryan Ting (7 tac in 2004) at free safety Tofi (2 tac in 2004) or redshirt freshman . Patterson’s and freshman Kevin Ellison, who graduated a semester early from nose tackle spot likely will be taken over by sophomore Sedrick Redondo Union High in Redondo Beach, Calif., and enrolled at Ellis (2 tac in 2004), his 2004 backup. Other tackles aiming to see USC this spring, at strong safety. There is also sophomore walk- action are redshirt freshmen Lawrence Miles and converted offen- on Chase McWhorter. Sophomore (9 tac, 2 int, 2 sive guard Travis Draper. Candidates for time at end are sophs dfl in 2004) likely will emerge at Wright’s corner spot. Senior John Jeff Schweiger (18 tac, 4.5 for loss, 2 sack, 1 FF, 1 dfl in 2004), who Walker (1 rec, 22 yds, 22.0 avg in 2004, plus 3 tac), who worked at saw action in 12 games last season, Alex Morrow (2 tac in 2004) wide receiver the last half of 2004, also will compete for time at and converted tight end Chris Barrett, along with junior Rashaad cornerback. Also available at the corner spots are 4 walk-ons: se- Goodrum (1 tac, 1 for loss, 1 sack in 2004). Two walk-ons—junior nior Alex Gomez (2 tac in 2004), junior twins Jamel Williams and Jerry Williams, and redshirt freshman Jim Abbott. Then, enrolling this fall as freshmen is a trio of prep All-Americans—cornerbacks STATS OF NOTE Cary Harris (Notre Dame High in Sherman Oaks, Calif.) and Kevin Thomas (Rio Mesa High in Oxnard, Calif.), plus safety Will Harris WINS (Charter Oak High in Covina, Calif.)—along with sophomore juco ***USC has won 33 of its last 34 games, 34 of its last 36, 36 of its last 39 transfer cornerback Mozique McCurtis (Grossmont JC in El Cajon, and 40 of its last 44. Calif.). DEFENSE ***Defensively in 2004, USC ranked in the nation’s Top 10 in every defen- SPECIAL TEAMS OVERVIEW sive category: first in rushing defense (79.4, first in Pac-10), first in Most of USC’s specialists return in 2005: the punter (Tom Malone), turnover margin (+1.5, first in Pac-10), third in scoring defense (13.0, first returners (Reggie Bush, Desmond Reed, Greig Carlson), snap- in Pac-10), sixth in total defense (279.3, first in Pac-10) and ninth in pass pers (Will Collins, Collin Ashton) and holder (Malone). But there efficiency defense (101.3, second in Pac-10). will be a new placekicker and he will need to be productive, be- ***In 2004, USC led the nation in rushing defense for the second year in a cause the position accounted for nearly a quarter of USC’s points in row and in turnover margin for the first time ever. ***USC’s total defense average of 279.3 in 2004 was its lowest since the 2004. The Trojans were effective on special teams last fall, ranking 1989 season (238.4) and the 4.3 yards per play allowed was its lowest th th 12 nationally in kickoff returns (23.7), 15 in net punting (38.5) and since 1989’s 4.2. th 17 in punt returns (13.5). USC had 2 scoring punt returns in 2004. ***USC allowed just 3 touchdowns, 1 and 1 safety in the fourth quarter in 2004. SPECIALISTS ***USC held opponents scoreless in 28 of 52 quarters in 2004. USC has the nation’s best punter in senior Tom Malone (43.8 avg ***During its current 22-game winning streak, USC has not allowed a team in 2004), who was an All-American first team pick in 2003 and de- to score more than 28 points (8 opponents in 2004 have been held to less cided to return to Troy in 2005 after flirting with an early departure to than 14 points and only 3 have topped 20 points). ***USC posted 50 sacks in 2004 (3.8 per game). the NFL. The 2-time Ray Guy Award semifinalist is a leading candi- ***USC forced 38 turnovers in 2004 (22 interceptions, 16 fumbles), more date to capture that award in 2005. His career punting average of than any other team. 44.5 is above the USC record and just .1 shy of the Pac-10 mark. ***USC allowed opponents to convert just 28.4% of third downs (54-of- Fifty-one of his 153 career punts have traveled at least 50 yards and 190). 84 have pinned opponents within the 20-yard line. Last year, he ***Opponents advanced into the red zone only 25 times in 2004. was ninth nationally with a 43.8 punting average. Backing him are ***USC lost the turnover battle in just 1 game (Arizona) in 2004 (the Trojans walk-on redshirt freshmen Taylor Odegard and Sean Limahelu, are 31-4 under Pete Carroll when winning the turnover battle). the nephew of ex-USC placekicker Chris Limahelu. USC has a ***USC has intercepted a pass in 33 of the last 36 games, including 16 consecutive games before being blanked at Notre Dame in 2003. huge hole to fill at placekicker with the graduation of Ryan Killeen, ***USC has held 28 of its last 39 opposing teams to less than 100 rushing who handled all placements and kickoffs for the past 3 years. He yards (8 times in 2004, 10 games in 2003 and 10 times in 2002). th led the Pac-10 in scoring in 2004 (8.6 average to rank 17 nation- ***Only 2 opposing runners have rushed for 100 yards against USC in the ally), the first Trojan to do so since 1990. He set the Pac-10 career past 36 games (California’s Adimchinobe Echemandu did so in 2003, break- records for PATs (176) and PAT attempts (180) and the USC all-time ing a streak of 16 consecutive games without a 100-yard rusher, and Cal’s mark for points scored (329). He nailed 16-of-25 field goals last J.J. Arrington did so in 2004). year (51 in his career) and connected on his last 77 PATs dating to ***USC has posted 4 shutouts in its past 26 games. 2003 (including all 64 in 2004). In his career, 159 of his 281 kickoffs ***Under Pete Carroll, USC is 22-0 when holding opponents to less than 300 yards of total offense (7 times in 2004). pinned opponents within the 20-yard line, including 110 touchbacks. ***Since allowing a 69-yard TD pass in the third quarter of the BYU game His likely replacement will be sophomore walk-on , in 2004, USC has not allowed a pass completion longer than 39 yards (a the son of ex-Washington State and NFL kicker . How- span of 41 quarters). ever, he has yet to kick in a collegiate game (he was effective with his placement kicks in 2005 spring practice, but his kickoffs were OFFENSE not as booming as Killeen’s). Pushing him are walk-on redshirt ***Offensively in 2004, USC was sixth nationally in scoring offense (38.2, freshman Phil Mellinger and freshman fall enrollee Troy Van first in Pac-10), seventh in passing efficiency (157.4, second in Pac-10), th th Blarcom (Orange Lutheran High in Orange, Calif.), a prep All-Ameri- 12 in total offense (449.1, second in Pac-10) and 13 in passing offense (271.7, third in Pac-10). can. Both of USC’s snappers return after doing flawless jobs in ***USC’s 5,838 yards of total offense in 2004 were 2 yards shy of the 2004: senior Collin Ashton, who doubles as a line- school season record, set in 2002. backer, and sophomore short snapper Will Collins. Senior punter ***USC has had more than 5,800 yards of total offense and 60-plus TDs Tom Malone will be the holder for his fourth season, with untested each of the past 3 years. senior wide receiver Greig Carlson the likely backup. junior tailback ***USC’s 6.3 yards per play in 2004 was the second best mark in Trojan Reggie Bush (24 PR, 376 yds, 15.7 avg, 2 TD in 2004, plus 21 KOR, history (behind 2003’s 6.5). 537 yds, 25.6 avg) returns as the punt and kick returner, his second ***USC’s trio of Reggie Bush, LenDale White and Dwayne Jarrett ac- year handling punts and third on kickoffs. He was ninth nationally in counted for 68.8% of USC’s touchdowns in 2004 (44 of 64). th ***The 2004 season was just the third time in USC history (along with 1979 punt returns and 16 in kickoff returns last fall. In 2004, he was the and 1993) that there were 6 Trojans with 20-plus catches (Dwayne first Trojan to lead the Pac-10 in punt returns since 1979 and, com- Jarrett, Reggie Bush, Steve Smith, Dominique Byrd, Alex Holmes and Chris bined with his league kick return title in 2003, became the first McFoy); David Kirtman was 1 catch shy of making it 7 Trojans, which Trojan to ever win Pac-10 titles in both categories. His 2 scoring would have been a first. punt returns last year were the most by a Trojan since 1998 (and ***USC’s 600 combined rushing yards against Colorado State (322) and were just 1 shy of the USC and Pac-10 season records). He al- BYU (278) were the most by Troy in back-to-back games since getting ready is fourth on USC’s career kickoff return chart (and tied for 18th 638 against Ohio State and Washington State in 1990. in punt returns). Sophomore tailback Desmond Reed (7 KOR, 150 ***All 8 of USC’s running backs who carried the ball in 2004 averaged at least 3.9 yards per carry (4 were at least at 5.0). yds, 21.4 avg in 2004, plus 1 PR, 16 yds, 16.0 avg) again will join ***USC allowed just 25 sacks in 2004. Bush in returning kickoffs and might even run back some punts. ***Of USC’s 78 offensive scoring drives in 2004, 50 took less than 3 Also available for kickoff return duty is sophomore wide receiver minutes (including 32 under 2 minutes). . Sure-handed senior wide receiver Greig Carlson (5 PR, 14 yds, 2.8 avg in 2004), who topped Troy in punt returns in 2003, backs up Bush on that task and is usually called on when- ever a punt needs to be fielded deep in opponent territory. RANDOM NOTES SCORING ***USC has scored at least 20 points in its last 39 games, a school record ***Former USC All-American tight end Charles Young will be en- (and in 41 of its past 42). shrined into the College Football Hall of Fame in South Bend, Ind., ***USC has scored at least 30 points in 28 of its last 34 games (9 times in 2004). this Aug. 12-13, while ex-Trojan All-American tailback Anthony Davis ***USC has scored at least 40 points 22 times under Pete Carroll (7 times will be inducted into the Hall at a Dec. 6 dinner in New York (he’ll be in 2004). enshrined in August of 2006). Young was a unanimous All-Ameri- ***USC scored 144 points (18 TDs, 6 field goals) after getting a turnover in can on USC’s 1972 national championship team and caught 68 2004. passes in his Trojan career before playing 13 years in the NFL. ***USC had a +25.2 scoring margin in 2004. Davis, a unanimous All-American on the Trojans’ 1972 and 1974 ***USC’s won 8 games by at least 30 points in 2004, a school record. national championship squads and the runnerup for the 1974 ***USC outscored opponents 272-104 in the first half and 224-65 in the Heisman Trophy, was the first player in Pac-8 history to rush for second half in 2004. ***USC has a knack recently for scoring 20 or more unanswered points 1,000 yards in three different seasons. He is long remembered for (12 times in 2004 and 11 times in both 2003 and 2002). scoring 11 touchdowns in three games against Notre Dame, in- ***In its current 22-game winning streak, USC has won by a combined 532 cluding six as a sophomore in the 1972 contest and four in the points (an average of 24.2). famous 55-24 comeback victory in 1974. He set an NCAA record ***During the Pete Carroll era, USC has more than doubled the score of its with six scoring kickoff returns in his career (including three in 1974). opponents in the second half of games (873 to 400 points). USC has 27 former players, 2 ex-head coaches, 4 one-time assis- ***USC had 3 players who scored 10 or more touchdowns in 2004 (TB tant coaches and a former athletic director in the College Football LenDale White with 17, TB Reggie Bush with 15 and WR Dwayne Jarrett Hall of Fame. with 13), the first time that happened at Troy since at least 1931.

th MISCELLANEOUS ***The 2005 season marks the 40 anniversary of USC’s first ***On special teams in 2004, USC was 12th nationally in kickoff returns Heisman Trophy winner, 2-time All-American tailback . (23.7, second in Pac-10), 15th in net punting (38.5, second in Pac-10) and Now Troy’s athletic director, Garrett began the great legacy of USC’s 17th in punt returns (13.5, second in Pac-10). I-formation tailbacks. He set 14 NCAA, conference and USC records ***USC has swept traditional rivals UCLA and Notre Dame for 3 consecu- in his 3-year career, including an NCAA career rushing record of tive seasons for the first time ever. 3,221 yards. His 1,440 rushing yards in his 1965 Heisman cam- ***USC has won its last 7 games against AP Top 7 teams (No. 7 Notre Dame paign was the first 1,000-yard season by a Trojan since 1927. and No. 3 Iowa in 2002, No. 6 Auburn, No. 6 Washington State and No. 4 Michigan in 2003, No. 7 California and No. 2 Oklahoma in 2004) and has th done so by a 254-96 score (an average of 36-14). ***This season, Ned Miller is celebrating his 50 anniversary as ***USC has won its last 11 games against AP Top 25 teams (the 7 men- USC’s official football statistician. Seated in the press box, Miller tioned in the previous item, plus No. 22 Washington, No. 14 Oregon and No. and his staff have been compiling the in-game statistics at Trojan 25 UCLA in 2002, and No. 15 Arizona State in 2004) and has done so by a home games since 1955. These stats are disseminated to the 436-178 score (an average score of 40-16). media who cover USC football. ***USC has played before crowds of at least 85,000 in 8 of its past 16 games. ***The 2005 season also marks the 100th anniversary of the first ***USC’s last 2 losses (at Washington State in 2002 and California in 2003) have come in 4 overtimes. USC-Stanford football game, a 16-0 Cardinal win in 1905 in Palo ***Eight of the 9 losses in the Pete Carroll era at USC have been by a Alto (it was USC’s first football game played outside of Southern touchdown or less (the other was by 11 points). California). Stanford is USC’s oldest current rival. Overall, USC holds a 56-24-3 series lead over Stanford (the teams did not meet TAKEAWAYS in 1906-1917, 1921, 1924 and 1943-45) USC has been effective in the takeaway department during head coach Pete Carroll’s 4-year tenure. USC’s +1.4 turnover margin ***USC has retired the jersey numbers of its 6 Heisman Trophy over Carroll’s first 4 seasons was the best in the nation and its winners. However, 2 of those numbers are currently in use. When 1513 takeaways during that span also were the most. In 2004, Troy he arrived at USC in 2003, S Darnell Bing received permission from led the nation with a +1.5 turnover margin by getting 22 intercep- USC athletic director Mike Garrett (Troy’s 1965 Heisman-winning tions and 16 fumbles (while giving up only 7 interceptions and 12 tailback) to wear Garrett’s retired No. 20 jersey (that was Bing’s fumbles). In 2003, USC was +1.5 in turnover margin (second in the high school number). And current QB Matt Leinart will continue in U.S. and first in the Pac-10) by getting 22 interceptions and 20 his No. 11 jersey now that he won the 2004 Heisman. fumbles (and yielding only 9 interceptions and 13 fumbles). In 2002, the Trojans had 36 takeaways (19 fumbles and 17 intercep- ***QB John David Booty, who enrolled at USC in the fall of 2003, is tions) with only 18 turnovers and ranked fifth nationally in turnover believed to be the first football player to graduate a full year early margin (+1.4). In 2001, Troy had 35 takeaways (20 picks, 15 fumbles) from high school and enroll at a major Division I-A university. with just 19 turnovers and ranked fifth in the nation in turnover mar- gin at +1.3. ***USC also has 7 players who graduated a semester early from high school and enrolled at USC in the spring. P Tom Malone and ON TV FB Brandon Hancock came to USC in the spring of 2002. Identical USC is one of America’s most televised teams. The Trojans have twin DBs Brandon and Ryan Ting did so in the spring of 2003. TE appeared on live national, regional or local telecasts 334 times, Fred Davis did so in the spring of 2004. TB Michael Coleman and including 200 of the past 202 games (USC’s last 41 games have S Kevin Ellison enrolled at USC this past spring. been televised). In fact, USC had an amazing streak of 111 con- secutive games on some form of live television from 1988 to 1997 ***As a youngster, LB Collin Ashton was a ballboy for several years (snapped against Oregon State) and another streak of 48 in a row for the USC men’s basketball team. A fifth generation Trojan, he from 1997 to 2001 (broken against California). attended his first USC football game when he was a month old and has never missed a Trojan home game in his lifetime.

***OT Taitusi Lutui is USC’s only married player. He and his wife, Pua, were married in July of 2004. Their son, Inoke Luuaki Moeltau (“Return a champion”) was born the day after USC’s win in the . ***No USC football in history has been heavier than cur- ther, 1979 All-American Paul McDonald, was on the 1978 team) and rent Trojan OLs Taitusi Lutui (365 pounds) or Alatini Malu (340). WR Brad Walker (cousin, Norm Katnik, was on the 2003 team and cousin, Kurt Katnik, was on the 2003 and 2004 teams). ***While suspended from USC in 2004, OT Winston Justice trained daily at a Hollywood boxing gym with trainer Freddie Roach, who ***Several Trojans have other relatives with USC football connec- once worked with Mike Tyson. LB participated in tions. SNP Will Collins’ brother, Rob Collins, was a walk-on at USC boxing in high school. in the 1980s. Three Trojans have uncles who were Trojan footballers: LB Clay Matthews (Bruce Matthews, 1980-82, 1982 ***C Ryan Kalil might be the Trojans’ most musically-inclined player. All-American), OG Fred Matua (Titus Tuiasosopo, 1990-92) and He likes to sing, particularly Frank Sinatra tunes. WR Brad Walker (John Katnik, 1986-87). WR William Buchanon’s second cousin is former Trojan C.R. Roberts (1955-56). ***Who’s the fastest among the 2005 Trojans? It might be TB Reggie Bush, with bests of 10.42 in the 100 meters and 21.06 in the ***Speaking of genes: DL Walker Lee Ashley’s father, Walker Lee 200. He placed third in the 100 in the 2002 California state meet. Ashley, was an All-American defensive end on Penn State’s 1982 national championship team who then played in the NFL as a line- ***As a youngster, CB John Walker was a television actor who backer with the Vikings (1983-88, 1990) and appeared in such shows as “E.R.” and “7th Heaven” (in fact, he (1988-89). OT Sam Baker’s father, David, formerly played basket- didn’t play football until his sophomore year of high school be- ball at UC Irvine and then professionally in Europe, while his brother, cause a clause in his acting contract prevented him from doing Ben, was an offensive lineman at Duke. QB John David Booty’s anything that could affect his appearance). father, Johnny, played quarterback at Arkansas, Louisiana Tech and Mississippi State, while his brother, Josh, played quarterback at ***FB Brandon Hancock has been featured in various body build- LSU for 2 seasons (1999-2000) following a 5-year (1994-98) base- ing magazines, including Muscle Magazine International. ball career as an infielder in the Florida Marlins organization (he then played with the NFL’s ) and another brother, ***QB Matt Leinart was born with strabismus (cross-eyes), as his Abram, was a wide receiver at LSU (1997-99) and Valdosta State left eye was not aligned with his right. He underwent surgery twice (2001). FB Mike Brittingham has 5 relatives with athletic back- (once when he was a year-and-a-half old and then just before en- grounds: sister, Kristine, lettered on UCLA’s women’s soccer team tering high school) and was fitted with glasses. in 2000 and 2001, cousins Jack and Robert Brittingham were 3- year (1933-35) football lettermen at California, great uncle Richard ***“Undisputed,” a 75-minute DVD about the USC football team’s Munroe lettered in football at both Stanford (1942) and California exciting 2004 national championship season, can be purchased (1943), and great great grandfather Louis Sumner lettered in foot- for $24.95 at the USC Bookstore on campus, as well as ordered ball at Wisconsin (1889, 1891-92). WR William Buchanon is the online at www.uscthestore.com or by calling the USC Bookstore at son of ex-NFL star Willie Buchanon, a 1971 All-American cornerback 800-447-8620. The DVD includes highlights from all 13 of USC’s at State who was a 3-time Pro Bowler during his 11-year games, never-before-seen pre-game, halftime and post-game (1972-82) NFL career with the Green Bay Packers and San Diego lockerroom footage, and interviews with current and former players Chargers. PK Mario Danelo’s father, Joe, was a placekicker at and coaches. Also available at the USC Bookstore and online is a Washington State (1972-74) before playing in the NFL with the Green 150-minute DVD of ABC-TV’s entire commercial-free broadcast of Bay Packers (1975), New York Giants (1976-82) and Buffalo Bills the 2005 Orange Bowl, a 55-19 Trojan victory over Oklahoma. It is (1983-84). TB Hershel Dennis’ father, Hershel Sr., played tailback priced at $19.95. at North Carolina A&T. S Kevin Ellison’s brother, Keith, is a senior linebacker at Oregon State (he formerly played at San Diego State), ***Strength and conditioning coach Chris Carlisle has beaten can- while his cousin, Dominic Ellison, played basketball at Washing- cer. He learned he had Hodgkin’s Disease in December of 2000, ton State and New Mexico State. CB Alex Gomez’s brother, Cesar, began radiation treatments in Tennessee (where he was still the played baseball at USC. DE Rashaad Goodrum’s brother, Nuru, is Volunteers’ associate strength and conditioning coach), was hired a sophomore fullback at The Citadel. DE Lawrence Jackson’s by USC in February of 2001, kept his illness a secret except to brother, Keith, was an offensive tackle at Arizona. WR Dwayne Trojan head coach Pete Carroll, continued treatments in Tennes- Jarrett’s cousin, Desmond Belton, is a sophomore wide receiver see and at USC/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center and Hospi- at Idaho. C Ryan Kalil’s father, Frank, was a center at Arizona (1980- tal, then doctors told him in the summer of 2001 that the cancer was 82) and with the USFL’s Arizona Wranglers (1983) and Houston in remission. He informed the USC players of his ordeal at the start Gamblers (1984). FB Sean Kelly’s father, Mike, was an All-Ameri- of fall 2001 camp. He was 1 of 17 nominees for the 2003 Most can swimmer at USC (1977-80) and his great grandfather, Arnold Courageous Award presented by the Football Writers Association Horween, kicked the winning PAT in Harvard’s 7-6 victory over Or- of America. egon in the 1920 Rose Bowl to help the Crimson to the last of its 7 national football championships (also a fullback, Arnold played ***Politically speaking, TB Reggie Bush’s nickname is “The Presi- alongside his brother, RB Ralph Horween). FB David Kirtman’s dent” (he humorously was singled out in remarks by President father, Louis, ran track at California, his brother, Michael, was on George W. Bush during USC’s national championship visit to the Pomona-Pitzer’s football and track teams and his uncle, Nate White House in March of 2004). Troy also presidentially features a Kirtman, played football at Stanford in 1967. OT Taitusi Lutui’s Jackson (DE Lawrence Jackson) and a Buchanan (WR William brother, Sam, was an assistant football coach at Southern Utah, Buchanon, spelled slightly different than the President). Three Tro- where he also started on the line in 1995 and 1996, while he is also jans attended high schools named after presidents (WRs Steve related to current BYU players T.J. Sitake and David Tafuna and Smith and Greig Carlson attended Taft HS and FB Jody Adewale former Cougar Ofa Mohetau. LB Kaluka Maiava’s grandfather is prepped at Roosevelt HS). And TE Dominique Byrd was an intern ex-pro wrestler Neff Maiava and his uncle is pro wrestler/actor “The for Minnesota senator Mark Dayton. Rock” (, who played football at Miami). OG Fred Matua’s uncle, Navy Tuiasosopo, played offensive line at Utah State ***Six Trojans have relatives who played on national championship and later with the , another uncle, Mike USC football squads: SNP Will Collins (uncle, Joe Collins, was on Tuiasosopo, is the defensive line coach at Arizona (he played de- the 1974 team), OT Nick Howell (father, Pat Howell, was an All- fensive tackle at Pacific Lutheran from 1985 to 1988) and a distant American on the 1978 team), P Sean Limahelu (uncle, Chris cousin, Manu Tuiasasosopo, was a 3-time All-Conference defen- Limahelu, was on the 1974 team), LB Clay Matthews (father, 1977 sive lineman at UCLA (1976-78) who then played with the All-American Clay Matthews, was on the 1974 team and brother, Seahawks and . DT Fili Moala’s cousin is Kyle Matthews, was on the 2003 team), QB Michael McDonald (fa- Oregon junior defensive lineman . OT Drew Radovich’s father, Mark, was a linebacker at Arizona State (1974-76). QB Mark IN THE NFL Sanchez’s brothers—Nick (Yale football in 1992-93-94) and Bran- USC is always well-represented in the NFL. At the start of training don (DePaul)—were college athletes. LB Dallas Sartz’s father, camp this summer, there were 42 ex-Trojans on NFL rosters. Last Jeff, played safety at Oregon State and his grandfather, also named year, there were 25 Trojans on opening day NFL rosters, including Dallas, was a Golden Gloves boxer at Washington State and a players such as LBs , and Zeke Moreno, professional hydroplane racer. Twin DBs Brandon and Ryan Ting’s DL Willie McGinest, WRs , and brother, Rich, was a quarterback at Yale (1998-2001), while their Curtis Conway, QBs Carson Palmer and Rodney Peete and DBs father, Arthur, was the team physician for the San Francisco 49ers Sammy Knight, Troy Polamalu, Brian Kelly and Daylon McCutcheon. (he now serves in that role for the NHL’s San Jose Sharks). DT Six NFL head coaches have USC ties (either as former players or Travis Tofi’s cousin, Suaese “Pooch” Taase, played football at Loui- assistants): Washington’s Joe Gibbs, Jacksonville’s , siana Tech. WR Brad Walker’s uncle, Norman Katnik, was a 2- Tennessee’s Jeff Fisher, Seattle’s , Detroit’s Steve year starting center at Arizona (1978-79). TB LenDale White is the Mariucci and Oakland’s . Eleven current USC players cousin of former Notre Dame (1998) and Pittsburgh (2000-01) have relatives with NFL playing backgrounds: DT Walker Lee Ashley tailback/wide receiver Darcey Levy (who played in the NFL), ex-Wyo- (father, Walker Lee Ashley), QB John David Booty (brother, Josh ming (1998-2002) linebacker Herman White and former Colorado Booty), WR William Buchanon (father, Willie Buchanon), PK Mario point guard Chauncey Billups, now in the NBA. OT Kyle Williams’ Danelo (father, Joe Danelo), OT Nick Howell (father, Pat Howell), father, Scott, played college basketball, while an uncle, Eric Will- OG Fred Matua (cousins, Navy and ), LB Clay iams, was a defensive lineman with the (1984-89) Matthews (grandfather, Clay Matthews Sr.; father, Clay Matthews; and Washington Redskins (1990-93, including on the 1991 Super uncle, Bruce Matthews), QB Michael McDonald (father, Paul Bowl champs) after earning 1983 All-Pac-10 first team honors in McDonald), WR Brad Walker (cousin, Norm Katnik), TB LenDale his 3 years (1981-83) at Washington State; his grandfather, Roy Williams, played for the Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers, White (cousin, Darcey Levy) and OT Kyle Williams (uncle, Eric Wil- another uncle played professional basketball in Europe, while his liams; grandfather, Roy Williams). OT Sam Baker’s father, David, other grandfather played 3 sports at Lehigh in the 1960. CB Justin is the commissioner of the Arena Football League. And C Ryan Wyatt’s father, Porter, played baseball in the Milwaukee Brewers Kalil’s father, Frank, played in the USFL. Additionally, head coach organization, while his uncle, Reggie, was in the Kansas City Roy- Pete Carroll was an NFL head coach and assistant coach, and als system. WR John Zilka’s grandfather, Jake Nagode, played assistants Jethro Franklin, , Todd McNair, Pat Ruel and basketball at Northwestern (1936-38) and then professionally in Steve Sarkisian were NFL assistants. Five assistant coaches the late-1940s, while his sister, Allison, lettered on the Arizona played professionally: Sam Anno, Jethro Franklin, Jr. women’s soccer team in 1994. DB coach Greg Burns’ brother, and Todd McNair were in the NFL, while Steve Sarkisian was in the Dexter, was a defensive back at San Jose State in the mid-1990s. CFL. Head coach Pete Carroll’s wife, Glena, played volleyball at Pacific, while his son, Brennan, was a tight end at Delaware and Pitt (he USC IS THE PLACE TO BE currently is an assistant football coach at USC) and his daughter, Based on several national accolades it has received in recent years, Jaime, played on the 2000 USC women’s volleyball team. WR USC can stake its claim as one of the nation’s premier schools. coach Lane Kiffin’s father, Monte, is the defensive coordinator of USC was named the “College of the Year” by the 2000 edition of the (he is a longtime NFL and collegiate the Time/Princeton Review College Guide because of the remark- assistant coach who also served as North Carolina State’s head able bonds it has forged with the local community. The editors said coach in the early 1980s), while his brother, Chris, was a defensive USC has one of the most ambitious social-outreach programs of lineman at Colorado State. LB coach Rocky Seto’s wife, Sharla, any university in the nation and cited the school’s model of service played soccer at USC. TE coach Brennan Carroll is the son of USC learning (applying academic theory to real-life situations through head coach Pete Carroll. DEF/LB coach Ken Norton Jr. is the son public service). They also pointed out that USC’s undergraduate of Ken Norton Sr., the former world heavyweight boxing champion applications have nearly doubled over the last few years and it is who played football at Northeast Missouri State. enrolling the most academically accomplished freshman classes in its history. Troy also was selected as one of America’s nine ***How about these names: DE Frostee Rucker (that’s his real “hottest schools” by the 2001 edition of the Newsweek/Kaplan first name). OT Taitusi Lutui (he goes by “Deuce”). OG Alatini College Guide because it lives up to its reputation as a top-notch Malu, who answers to “Tiny” (he’s 6-4 and 340 pounds). DT Travis institution of higher education. Students quoted in the guide said Tofi. DT Fili Moala. CB Mozique McCurtis. LB Kaluka Maiava. LB that what attracted them to the university was Los Angeles’ ethnic Rey Maualuga. Then, there’s S Darnell Bing and the Ting twins diversity, the offer of scholarships, the small classroom sizes and (DBs Brandon and Ryan). And offensive line coach Pat Ruel’s real USC’s standing in academe. Also in 2001, the Association of Ameri- first name is Golden. can Colleges and Universities picked USC as one of 16 “Leader- ship Institutions” for providing stimulating educational experiences ROSTER UPDATE both inside and outside of the classroom. USC was cited for em- Here is an update from the roster in the 2005 USC football media phasizing a campus culture featuring new learning techniques, guide: curriculum and organizational structure and for demonstrating a ***Add former walk-on QB Michael McDonald (#16, 6-2, 185, strong commitment to liberal arts education relevant to the contem- So.*/Jr., Newport Beach, Newport Harbor HS), who has been awarded a scholarship (his bio is below). porary world. The organization said USC not only linked liberal arts and pre-professional study, but offered students the opportunity to BIO OF NEW SCHOLARSHIP TROJAN learn by doing through off-campus work in community projects and internships. Also, USC was lauded for stressing critical thinking, MICHAEL McDONALD—A one-time walk-on, he earned a scholarship in effective communication and contributing to a diverse society. the fall of 2005 and will serve as a reserve quarterback as a sophomore in 2005…He did not see any action as a redshirt freshman reserve quarter- back in 2004…He redshirted as a first-year freshman quarterback in 2003…He prepped at Newport Harbor High in Newport Beach (Calif.), where he starred in football and volleyball…His father, Paul, was a 3-year (1977- 79) letterman quarterback at USC who helped the Trojans to the 1978 na- tional championship and earned All-American and Academic All-American honors in 1979 (he then played in the NFL with the Browns and Cowboys from 1980 to 1987 and now serves as the radio analyst on USC football broadcasts). USC’S 125TH CELEBRATION DE Lawrence Jackson, on his philosophical nature: “I’m interested in The USC 125th Anniversary Project (1880-2005) showcases USC’s how the world turns. I’m really into the awareness of ‘If this hap- pens, then that happens.’ I look at things that happen and why they leadership in redefining the research university of the happen. When people look at something from one direction, they while celebrating and honoring its proud heritage as one of the can’t know everything fully. You have to understand what you oldest continuing academic and cultural institutions in the region. don’t understand to have a global point of view. I think about stuff USC has been reinventing itself since 1880. Thanks to the dedica- the average person doesn’t think about.” tion, talent, and resources of the Trojan Family, USC will be invent- OT Winston Justice, on his boxing workouts in 2004: “Boxing has a lot ing the future for generations to come. Between now and spring of similar elements to what I do in football, with the hand place- 2006, USC will host a variety of university-wide as well as school- ment and all that. I sparred with a lot of fighters, mostly smaller based academic programs, including conferences and guest lec- guys. I think I held my own. But I don’t think I could be a boxer. I tures focused on the first part of USC’s 125th anniversary theme — don’t have the jaw for it. I have a much better respect for boxers “inventing the future.” At the same time, the university will explore now.” the second part of the theme — “honoring the past” — through QB Matt Leinart, on his decision to return to USC for his senior season history projects, celebrations, campus tours, and publications re- instead of going to the NFL: “The things I value at this school are more flecting our rich heritage. Finally, USC’s 125th anniversary year — important to me than money. I realize the money I could have 2005-2006 — will culminate in spring 2006 with a university-hosted made if I had gone to the NFL, but I wanted to stay in school. I international academic conference aimed at defining the research wanted to be with all my friends and teammates, living the college life and going through the graduation process. All those things university of the 21st century. The premiere public event of USC’s make up my college experience and I didn’t want to give that up. 125th Anniversary will be a 4-day (Oct. 6-9) all-university celebration Being in college is the best time of my life. I’m having fun here. It’s called USC Festival 125. This weekend, which corresponds with all a part of growing up, all part of being a kid, and I wasn’t ready to USC’s Founders Day (the actual 125th anniversary of the univer- pass that up. I realize that some say there’s not really much more sity), Half Century Trojans’ Weekend, and Trojan Parents’ Week- I can accomplish. But I can get a lot stronger physically and men- tally. Another year of experience can only help. It’s not about the end, will include an all-university open house. The schools will awards. It’s not about trying to win another Heisman. It’s really provide facility/laboratory tours, lectures, cultural performances, and about trying to win a third national championship and getting bet- celebratory events in their buildings and in outdoor venues. Finally, ter as a player.” the university will be hosting a selection of central events com- memorating this important milestone, including an academic cel- QB Matt Leinart, on his celebrity: “It’s crazy. I get linked with people because they’re celebrities I’ve hung out with. It’s kind of sad that ebration in Bovard, a birthday picnic lunch in Alumni Park, and a I can’t go hang out with them without getting my name in the special 125th anniversary concert in Bovard. USC’s Oct. 8 home paper. I just want to hang out. I don’t want to be in all the maga- football game against Arizona will be part of USC Festival 125. zines. That’s not who I am. I’m a normal guy, just like any other 21- year-old college student. Really, there’s nothing special about me.” CLOSING QUOTES OT Taitusi Lutui, on his size: “I have always been one big boy. When I want to, I can eat. I’m trying to cut down, but I love my rice and LB Collin Ashton, on his early life as a walk-on: “I’m not dumb. I those carbs.” looked out on the field in my first few weeks here and I could see everyone was bigger, stronger and faster than me. I knew it would P Tom Malone, on his goal as USC’s punter: “I would rather never go be tough before I got here, but it was even worse than I thought. on the field at all. If we just scored every time, we’d go undefeated Yeah, I was plenty discouraged at times. Every Saturday would and win the national championship, and that’s what the whole goal come and I’d never get close to playing. But I knew why. If I was is.” the coach, I wouldn’t have played me, either.” P Tom Malone, on becoming a punter: “I was a wide receiver as a LB Collin Ashton, on going from being a die-hard USC fan as a youngster freshman in high school. One day, after I dropped a pass in prac- to playing for the Trojans: “I now realize I’m actually here, I’m actually tice, in frustration I picked up the ball and kicked it as hard as I doing this, I’m the guy I once cheered. I get goose bumps just could. The ball sailed high and kept going and going. The coaches talking about it. When I look up in the stands, I see myself.” saw that and made me the punter.”

S Darnell Bing, on wearing 1965 Heisman Trophy-winning tailback Mike OG Fred Matua, on talkative nature: “You’ve got to be loud. Being loud Garrett’s retired No. 20 jersey: “I just have to show I’m worthy of puts pressure on yourself. I want to be the person calling the wearing No. 20. Mr. Garrett said that if I don’t do it, he’ll take it shots. It’s a street attitude. Defense was my identity when I came back.” here. On offense, you can’t talk so much because you might end up missing your assignment. ” QB John David Booty, on Matt Leinart’s decision to return for his 2005 senior season: “People asked if I was bummed. I got to the point S Brandon Ting, on graduating high school a semester early (with his twin where I was bummed that they thought I was bummed. Matt brother, Ryan) and enrolling at USC: “At first the transition was weird coming back is a great thing for the school and for the football because we didn’t know what it was like to live in a new setting team. And I have to stay ready in case my chance comes along.” and things were coming at us so fast. But we got comfortable once we got in the system and knew what was expected of us. My QB John David Booty, on one of the adjustments he faced coming from brother thought it was like being away at camp and he thought the high school to USC: “The speed of life in L.A. compared to Louisiana. following week we would be going home.” Everybody’s trying to go to the top out here. If you stop, you’re going to get run over. But that’s good. That’s what I needed in my TB LenDale White, on his running style: “I’m shifty, but I have the life.” power when I need it. I used to be a scatback, but I got to USC and gained some weight.” TB Reggie Bush, on returning punts and kicks: “A punt return is almost like freedom of speech. You get to go out and do whatever you TB LenDale White, on his football dream: “I want to line up wide and go want. It’s not a set-up play. I just get to go out there and express deep, too, just like Reggie. That’s my dream, to have Reggie at me, my athleticism, my personality, the type of player I am.” tailback and me catch a bomb.” SNP Will Collins, on snapping: “The brief time I get in the game, I’m seeing the action upside down and between my legs.”