Any 2010 preview of the USC football season is going to look a heck of a lot different than any other preview in recent Trojans history. For USC fans, the fear is that this season will also look a whole lot different from those in the recent past – and not in a good way. Then again, when your last decade included national titles, Pac-10 Titles, and back-to-back-to-back Rose Bowl wins, there’s not really anywhere to go but down.
After a disappointing 9-4 season in 2009, head coach Pete Carroll bolted, AD Mike Garrett was booted, and the NCAA hammered the Trojans thanks to former star Reggie Bush. When a team goes from being one of the game’s Ultimate Haves to a Has-Quite-a-Bit-Less in just a few months, it’s hard to tell what the season’s going to look like, other than different.
Coaching: Lane Kiffin has a less-than-stellar coaching record to go with his less-than-stellar reputation. He was a rising star as under Pete Carroll, and he has an incredible staff including Ed Orgeron and dad Monte. Carroll, a great defensive mind, was mentored by Papa Kiff, which should ease the transition for SC’s young defense. The big question – Can Lane Kiffin coach? – remains unanswered, but don’t forget people doubted Pete Carroll at first, too.
Passing Game: Returning sophomore Matt Barkley had a better-than-average season as a true freshman. He’s extremely talented and he’ll be more mobile and poised this season, so with good protection, expect great things. Behind Barkley, Mitch Mustain is probably the best backup in college football.
The bigger question is at receiver. Ronald Johnson will be the go-to guy, but someone else needs to step up. There are a few returners who’ve underperformed, but I expect one of the true freshmen to have a breakout year.
Rushing Game: Senior Allen Bradford just lost his starting job to Marc Tyler, but he’s a battering ram if he can stay healthy and now he has extra motivation. True freshman Dillon Baxter has already made headlines (good and bad); he’s suspended for the opener at Hawaii but with his instincts and explosiveness, he’ll be a game-changer.
Defense: The secondary could be a concern. Senior CB Shareece Wright is the only returner, and he’s missed the better part of the last two seasons. The newbies are talented; the key will be how quickly they can get up to speed.
