TrojanWire - Taylor Mays http://www.trojanwire.com/football/taylor-mays/index.php USC Football As It Happens Copyright 2010 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:31:17 -0800 http://www.movabletype.org/?v=3.2 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Taylor Mays says taste for the knockout was just following orders

By the end of last year, Mays' reputation for the kill shot had so overwhelmed the rest of his game that he was cited on the floor of Congress as "a headhunter" during a Judiciary Committee hearing on preventing concussions in October. After passing up a chance to be a top-10 or even top-five pick after his junior season, his stock started to fall as USC's defense tried to stave off total collapse over the second half of the season, and plummeted after a meh showing at the Senior Bowl, when questions about his agility, change of direction, hands, tackling and ability to do anything else that doesn't involve tracking and decapitating receivers threatened to drop him into the second round (though he did end the week with a pick in the game itself). As it stands, he seems bound for the late first round, 10-15 spots and a million dollars or two below what he likely would have earned a year ago.

Speaking to a San Diego radio station earlier this week, Mays said he disputed his descent on media draft boards on two counts: a) Doubts about his coverage skills only exist because of his size ("I think I’m able to move and I’m not supposed to be able to move at this size"), and b) When it came to hunting heads over the middle, he was just doing his job (emphasis added):

"I think there is some truth to [his reputation for going for too many big hits] but at the same time that is what I was coached to do. At USC, I was coached to deliver knockout shots. I have the potential athletically and mentally to catch the ball and go after the ball. In one week (at the Senior Bowl) I was able to go from only hitting receivers to going after the ball. I just want a chance to work with coach who can help me do that."

That's an interesting line from a player off a defense once ruled by the mantra, "It's all about the ball." Then again, there was much less made of former coach Pete Carroll's obsession with forcing turnovers over the last four years, when takeaways by the Trojan D were significantly down from the numbers that ranked among the top 10 nationally in each of Carroll's first six seasons. (Those defenses, coincidentally, were also led by hard-hitting All-Americans at safety, Troy Polamalu in 2001-02 and Darnell Bing from 2003-05.) If he's describing his role accurately, it seems entirely possible that Mays' lack of production on paper -- only one interception over the last two years, and only one credited forced fumble for his career -- stemmed from a decreased emphasis on taking the ball away in the later Carroll years. Or, it could be simply that he really, really likes knocking people out, and opposing offenses weren't very inclined to give him the opportunity to do either.

For his part, Mays also insists that he has never considered nor heard a coach suggest a move to linebacker, and that the focus on his supposed problems in coverage only exists in the media: "I just know that what I hear from a consensus especially recently from analysts is different than what I am hearing from NFL head coaches and GM’s and DB coaches. ... There are these ideas and thoughts out there that I can’t move well for my size or that I can’t backpedal. It’s just completely different than what I hear when I meet with coaches. They tell me that they like how I move and that I move well." At least the Song Girls like the way you move, Taylor, which is really all that counts.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/taylor-mays-says-taste-for-the-knockout-was-just-following-orders.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/taylor-mays-says-taste-for-the-knockout-was-just-following-orders.php Taylor Mays Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:31:17 -0800 What to watch in the Pac-10 this spring
Arizona
Spring practice starts: March 5
Spring game: April 10

What to watch:

The new coordinators: The Wildcats lost two outstanding coordinators -- Sonny Dykes on offense and Mark Stoops on defense -- and decided to replace them with four guys. Tim Kish, promoted from linebackers coach, and Greg Brown, hired away from Colorado, will run the defense, while Bill Bedenbaugh and Seth Littrell, both promoted from within, will run the offense, with an assist from new quarterbacks coach Frank Scelfo. These guys will need to develop a coaching rhythm this spring that will ensure things go smoothly in the fall.

The JC linebackers: The Wildcats must replace three starting linebackers, and JC transfers Derek Earls and Paul Vassallo weren't brought in to watch. If they step into starting spots, then guys like sophomore Jake Fischer, redshirt freshman Trevor Erno and redshirt freshman Cordarius Golston can fight over the third spot and add depth.

Foles 2.0: Quarterback Nick Foles was dynamic when he was on last year, but the shutout loss in the Holiday Bowl served as a reminder that he's not there yet. He's going to be surrounded by a lot of weapons at the skill positions, so he should be able to take another step forward this spring, even with the loss of Dykes.

Arizona State
Spring practice starts: March 30
Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

The QB battle: It's a wide-open battle between Michigan transfer Steven Threet and Brock Osweiler, though the new guy -- Threet -- is perhaps the most intriguing. Samson Szakacsy was supposed to join the battle, but his elbow problem is acting up again, coach Dennis Erickson said Thursday. The competition will be overseen by new offensive coordinator Noel Mazzone, who's been handed an offense that has sputtered the past two seasons.

O-line issues (take 3): The Sun Devils' offensive line has struggled three years running, and it won't matter who starts at QB if the unit continues to get pushed around. First off, is health. Will Matt Hustad, Zach Schlink, Garth Gerhart, Mike Marcisz and Adam Tello be ready to battle the entire spring? If so, there should be good competition here, particularly with a couple of JC transfers looking to break through.

The secondary: The Sun Devils were very good against the pass last year, but three starters in the secondary need to be replaced. Both starting corners are gone -- though if Omar Bolden successfully returns from a knee injury he should step in on one side -- as well as strong safety Ryan McFoy. The good news is a number of guys saw action here last fall, so the rebuilt unit won't be completely green.

California
Spring practice starts: March 6
Spring game: N/A

What to watch:

Embattled Riley: When things go well, the quarterback often gets too much credit. When things go badly... well, you know. Senior Kevin Riley has started 22 games and has played well at times. But there's a reason he's in a quarterback competition for a third consecutive season. Will he be able to hold off a rising Beau Sweeney this spring?

Rebuilding the D: The Bears had questions on defense even before coordinator Bob Gregory unexpectedly bolted for Boise State. Five starters need to be replaced, including mainstays like end Tyson Alualu and cornerback Syd'Quan Thompson, both first-team All-Pac-10 performers. And with Gregory gone, a new -- likely more aggressive scheme -- now must be incorporated.

RB depth: Shane Vereen is the obvious starter after the departure of Jahvid Best, but Cal has, during the Tedford years, always used two backs. So who's the No. 2? Sophomore Covaughn DeBoskie was third on the team with 211 yards rushing last year, while promising freshman Dasarte Yarnway redshirted. One or the other will look to create separation.

Oregon
Spring practice starts: March 30
Spring game: May 1

What to watch:

The D-line: The Ducks lost perennially underrated end Will Tukuafu, tackle Blake Ferras and backup Simi Toeaina up front. Considering the plan is to run an eight-deep rotation, there will be plenty of opportunities for players like ends Terrell Turner and Taylor Hart and tackles Anthony Anderson, Zac Clark, Wade Keliikipi as well as 6-foot-7 JC transfer Isaac Remington to work their way into the rotation.

The passing game: The Ducks' passing game was inconsistent last year, though by season's end receiver Jeff Maehl was playing at a high level. Refining that part of the offense with quarterback Jeremiah Masoli would make the spread-option even more dangerous. The receiving corps is looking for playmakers, which means youngsters, such as redshirt freshman Diante Jackson, might break through.

Who steps in for Ed Dickson? Oregon only loses one starter on offense, but tight end Ed Dickson is a big one. David Paulson was a capable backup last year, and mercurial Malachi Lewis may be ready to step up. Expect JC transfer Brandon Williams to work his way into the mix.

Oregon State
Spring practice starts: March 29
Spring game: May 1

What to watch:

Katz steps in: Sean Canfield is off to the NFL, so the Beavers' biggest question this spring is crowning a new starting quarterback. Most observers feel the job is Ryan Katz's to lose, and the sophomore looks good throwing the rock around. Still, being a quarterback is about more than a good arm. If he falters, Virginia transfer Peter Lalich might offer an alternative.

Better defensive pressure: The Beavers run a high-pressure defensive scheme, so when the stat sheet says they only recorded 17 sacks in 2009, which ranked ninth in the conference and was 22 fewer than in 2008, you know something is wrong. The entire defensive line is back, so the hope is a year of seasoning, particularly for ends Gabe Miller, Matt LaGrone and Kevin Frahm will mean better production this fall.

The O-line grows up: The Beavers' offensive line returns four starters from a unit that got better as the year went on. Still, it yielded 29 sacks and the run game struggled at times -- Jacquizz Rodgers often had to make yards on his own. Talented left tackle Michael Philipp, who did a solid job as a true freshman starter, should be much improved. A second year playing together with underrated senior center Alex Linnenkohl also should help.

Stanford
Spring practice starts: March 1
Spring game: April 17

What to watch:

Replacing Toby: How do you replace Toby Gerhart and his 1,871 yards and 28 touchdowns? You do not. But the hope is sophomores Tyler Gaffney and Stepfan Taylor and senior Jeremy Stewart will provide a solid answer that keeps the Cardinal's power-running game churning. It helps to have four starters back from a good offensive line.

Rebuilding the D: If you toss in linebacker Clinton Snyder and end Erik Lorig, Stanford must replace six defensive starters from a unit that ranked near the bottom of the conference in 2009. The secondary is a particular concern after giving up 23 touchdown passes and a 63 percent completion rate. The hope is good recruiting from coach Jim Harbaugh will provide better athleticism in the back-half. Another issue: There was huge coaching turnover, particularly on defense during the offseason, so new coordinator Vic Fangio & Co. will be implementing new schemes and learning about what sort of talent they have to work with.

Luck steps up: This was Gerhart's team in 2009. Now it's Luck's. He might be the most talented QB in the conference. Heck, he might become a Heisman Trophy candidate before he's done. But life won't be as easy without defenses crowding the line of scrimmage because they are fretting about Gerhart. Luck will need to step up his game -- and leadership -- to meet the challenge.

UCLA
Spring practice starts: April 1
Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

Prince becomes king? The fact that offensive coordinator Norm Chow has been such an advocate for sophomore quarterback Kevin Prince should tell you something: He's got the ability. Prince flashed some skills during an injury-plagued 2009 season, and it's important to remember he was a redshirt freshman playing with an questionable supporting cast, particularly the O-line. Prince needs to improve his decision-making, and the passing game needs to develop a big-play capability that stretches defenses.

Front seven rebuilding: UCLA not only must replace six starters on defense, it must replace six guys everyone in the Pac-10 has heard of. And five of the lost starters come from the front seven, and the guys who were listed as backups on the 2009 depth chart won't necessarily inspire confidence. In other words, the Bruins will try to take a step forward in the conference with what figures to be an extremely green defense, particularly up front.

The running game? Know what would help Prince and a young defense? A better running game. The Bruins were significantly better in 2009 than in 2008, but that merely means one of the worst rushing attacks in the nation moved up to ninth in the conference. There's a logjam of options at running back -- with a couple of dynamic runners in the incoming recruiting class -- and the offensive line welcomes back a wealth of experience. It would mean a lot if the Bruins could boost their rushing total to around 150 yards per game (from 114.6 in 2009).

USC
Spring practice starts: April 31
Spring game: TBA

What to watch:

Welcome, Lane Kiffin: The Pete Carroll era is over. Enter Lane Kiffin & Co. In terms of scheme, things will be fairly consistent, seeing that Kiffin was formerly Carroll's offensive coordinator and Monte Kiffin was Carroll's defensive mentor. But there will be a period of adjustment. The guess is the hyper-intense Ed Orgeron might provide a bit of a shock to the D-linemen.

Barkley Year 2: Barkley won't have the president of his fan club -- Carroll -- around anymore. He's a true talent. Everyone knows that, even without Carroll's daily sonnets about his ability. But the numbers show he threw 14 interceptions in 12 games vs. 15 TD passes last year, so he's obviously not arrived. Kiffin runs the offense, so you can expect these two to work closely together. Barkley will have plenty of help on offense, but the talent won't be as good as it was in 2009, with six starters needing to be replaced, including his top two targets (receiver Damian Williams and tight end Anthony McCoy).

Secondary questions: All four starters from the defensive backfield are gone, including center fielder Taylor Mays. It helps that cornerback Shareece Wright, an academic casualty in 2009, will be back. He was a projected starter last fall. There's plenty of talent on hand, but last year's team proved that the Trojans don't always just plug-and-play.

Washington
Spring practice starts: March 30
Spring game: April 30

What to watch:

Unleashing Locker: The return of quarterback Jake Locker was the best news any Pac-10 team received this offseason. Locker's passing improved dramatically in just one year under coach Steve Sarkisian, so it's not unreasonable to expect him to be even better in 2010, particularly with nine starters back on offense and just about every skill player on the depth chart.

Replacing Te'o-Nesheim: Daniel Te'o-Nesheim was a four-year starter who blossomed into an All-Pac-10 performer despite almost no supporting cast. He led the Huskies with 11 sacks in 2009, which was 8.5 more than any other player. Also, opposite end Darrion Jones is gone, and the cast at the position is extremely young. Who's the next pass-rushing threat?

The Butler did it: Linebacker Donald Butler blossomed last year, earning second-team All-Pac-10 honors and leading the Huskies in tackles and tackles for loss (15.5). Toss in E.J. Savannah's failure to earn a sixth year of eligibility from the NCAA, and the Huskies have some questions at linebacker. Mason Foster is a sure thing at one outside position, and Cort Dennison likely will fill a second gap, but there's an opportunity for a young player to fill void No. 3.

Washington State
Spring practice starts: March 25
Spring game: April 24

What to watch:

Tuel time: Coach Paul Wulff decided that freshman Jeff Tuel was the Cougars' quarterback of the future last year, so he opted to start him instead of going with a redshirt season. Tuel showed promise in six games, completing 59 percent of his passes with six touchdowns and five picks. Most of his supporting cast is back on offense, so the expectation is the Cougars' offense could take a significant step forward this fall.

O-line intrigue: Some of the Cougars starting on the offensive line last fall didn't look like Pac-10 players. Injuries and youth made the line a glaring area of weakness, even with veteran Kenny Alfred at center. Alfred is gone, but the expectations are that last year's youth will be saltier after taking their knocks. Plus, a couple of juco additions should be in the mix for starting jobs.

Growing up: There is hope in that 19 starters are back from a team that played a lot of underclassmen in 2009. That youth should mature in 2010. And solid recruiting classes the past two seasons should offer an infusion of young promise. ]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/what-to-watch-in-the-pac10-this-spring.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/what-to-watch-in-the-pac10-this-spring.php Taylor Mays Fri, 19 Feb 2010 10:28:59 -0800 More Mays Here's what former USC safety Taylor Mays told radio host Darren Smith about what he hears from draft analysts vs. NFL teams.

``I just know that what I hear from a consensus especially recently from analysts is different than what I am hearing from NFL head coaches and GM's and DB coaches.
There is a difference. I only worry about what my instructors and coaches tell me.There are these ideas and thoughts out there that I can't move well for my size or that I can't backpedal.
``It's just completely different than what I hear when I meet with coaches.They tell me that they like how I move and that I move well. Those are the people I'm going to listen to you.''

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/more-mays.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/more-mays.php Taylor Mays Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:55:41 -0800 Pac-10 top 30 in 2009: Nos. 12-13
Click here for Nos. 14-30. Preseason rankings are here.

12. Taylor Mays, S, USC (1): While it's hard to quantify what Mays might have gained socially, intellectually and emotionally from returning for his senior year, it's fair to say he didn't gain much professionally. He likely fell from a top-10 NFL draft pick to perhaps a late first rounder, though you should count on Mays' stock recovering at the NFL combine. (You don't hear as much criticism of Mays among NFL scouts and coaches, by the way). Mays, a four-year starter, also didn't exactly have a terrible season. He earned first-team All-Pac-10 honors again and ranked second in the conference with 96 tackles, despite missing a game with a knee injury that seemed to bother him much of the season. He had one interception, four pass breakups and a number of ball-dislodging hits.

13. Ed Dickson, TE, Oregon: When Arizona's Rob Gronkowski went down with a season-ending back injury, Dickson became the conference's best tight end by default. Then, Dickson earned the perch by posting outstanding numbers, ranking second on the Ducks with 42 receptions for 551 yards and six touchdowns. It's likely he will be an early NFL draft pick.

14. Tyson Alualu, DE, California (26)
15. Alterraun Verner, CB, UCLA (15)
16. Jahvid Best, RB, California (2)
17. Charles Brown, OT, USC (17)
18. Syd'Quan Thompson, CB, California (8)
19. Keaton Kristick, LB, Oregon State (28)
20. Nick Foles, QB, Arizona (NR)
21. Daniel Te'o-Nesheim, DE, Washington (23)
22. Mike Mohamed, LB, California (NR)
23. Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford (NR)
24. Donald Butler, LB, Washington (NR)
25. Everson Griffen, DE, USC (30)
26. Ricky Elmore, DE, Arizona (NR)
27. Trevin Wade, CB, Arizona (NR)
28. Kenny Rowe, DE, Oregon (NR)
29. Earl Mitchell, DT, Arizona (NR)
30. Travis Goethel, LB Arizona State (NR) ]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/pac10-top-30-in-2009-nos-1213.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/pac10-top-30-in-2009-nos-1213.php Taylor Mays Tue, 09 Feb 2010 10:03:10 -0800 Half of the best Pac-10 All-Decade team: QB Matt Leinart, TB Reggie Bush, WR Dwayne Jarrett, C Ryan Kalil, OT Sam Baker, DT Sedrick Ellis, DE Kenechi Udeze, LB Rey Maualuga, LB Keith Rivers, S Troy Polamalu, S Taylor Mays and P Tom Malone.
]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/half-of-the-best.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/half-of-the-best.php Dwayne Jarrett Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:50:11 -0800 Senior moments Senior Bowl week has gotten underway in Mobile, Ala., with four Trojans on the South roster. You can watch offensive lineman Jeff Byers, tailback Stafon Johnson, safety Taylor Mays and tight end Anthony McCoy go to work during the week's practices and in the game on Saturday at 1 p.m. on NFL Network, which is airing 10 hours of coverage throughout the week leading up to the all-star game.

And check out this video from NFL Network that highlights Mays.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/senior-moments.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/senior-moments.php Taylor Mays Tue, 26 Jan 2010 11:49:43 -0800 Morning Buzz Here's what ESPN draft analyst Todd McShay said about safety Taylor Mays.
``We've seen Mays get caught out of position far too often to move him ahead of (Tennessee's Eric) Berry . . . However it's rare to find a defensive back with Mays' size and speed combination.''

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/morning-buzz.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/morning-buzz.php Taylor Mays Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:59:43 -0800 USC Football News and Notes 12/14 - Emerald Bowl Prep, Team Banquet and C.J. Gable News So, the team is back at it this week as they go into bowl prep.

A couple of interesting story lines are taking shape as the season comes to a close.

I noted yesterday that Safety Josh Pinkard is out for the Emerald Bowl because of a knee injury. That makes things very interesting as Pete Carroll will now be giving us a small glimpse into the future as to what players may have a role in 2010.

With Pinkard out, sophomore T.J. Bryant, who has been the nickel back, probably will start. But redshirt junior Shareece Wright and redshirt freshman Brian Baucham also are in the mix.

Wright, a projected starter, is expected to be available for the game after sitting out the regular season because he was academically ineligible.

Baucham, who was ahead of Bryant coming out of training camp, returned to practice Sunday after missing several weeks because of a foot injury related to a September motorcycle accident.

I am not really sure as to just how effective Wright will be after not playing for almost four months. His loss really became apparent in the second half of the season when SC's defense started to struggle. I was not pleased that Wright did not take his classwork seriously...his not being on the team really changed the dynamic of the defense.

The question I have for everyone is academically eligible does Wright deserve to play or should he wait for spring ball? Wright definitely should not start but should he see some playing time? Playing in a bowl game to me is privilege not a given. I know he is talented but is missing the regular season enough of a punishment? It is a fine line but what is the message that needs to be sent?

T.J. Bryant already has some playing time under his belt but we really have not seen anything of Baucham after his motorcycle accident...will he be game ready?

- - -

Last night USC held their Team Banquet and handed out a number of awards...

Sixth-year senior Jeff Byers was named offensive lineman of the year, while Christian Tupou and Jurrell Casey shared defensive linemen of the year honors. Senior quarterback/wideout Garrett Green was recognized as special teams player of the year. And, for the third consecutive year, Green also won the Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award for having the highest GPA on the team.

The night wasn't lacking thrills. Cedric the Entertainer performed standup comedy and linebacker Marquis Simmons led a rendition of "Lean on Me" -- along with the tear-jerking presentation of Johnson's award by Jake Olson.

Here's a look at the full list of winners from the 2009 USC football awards ceremony on Sunday night:

  • Most Valuable Player: Wideout/punt returner Damian Williams
  • Most Inspirational Player: Tailback Stafon Johnson
  • Linemen of the year: Center/guard Jeff Byers (offense); defensive tackles Christian Tupou and Jurrell Casey (defense)
  • Special teams player of the year: Quarterback/wideout Garrett Green
  • Service team players of the year: Center Michael Reardon (offense); linebacker Marquis Simmons (defense)
  • Player of the game versus Notre Dame: Tight end Anthony McCoy
  • Player of the game versus UCLA: Tailback Allen Bradford
  • Jack Oakie "Rise and Shine" Award (year's biggest hit): Safety Taylor Mays
  • Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award: Quarterback/wideout Garrett Green
  • Bob Chandler Award (underclassman with outstanding athletic ability, academic achievement and character): Defensive tackle Christian Tupou
  • John McKay Award (underclassman with the most competitive spirit): Linebacker Devon Kennard
  • Courage Award: Cornerback Josh Pinkard
  • Co-Lifters Award: Offensive lineman Jeff Byers, safety Will Harris, safety Taylor Mays
  • Recognition of the 22 graduating seniors

The awards for Stafon Johnson, Garrett Green and Damian Williams are no surprise.

Speaking of Garrett Green...

Garrett Green has been cleared to hold on placements despite a torn ACL in his right knee.

How cool is that! He definitely deserves it. He has probably been the most under the radar player on this team over the past few seasons. It sucks that he won't have a bigger role on kick returns like he has had but at least he will get a chance to have a hand in his final game as a Trojan.

- - -

So, what about C.J. Gable?

No player has been as much as an enigma as Gable has during his time at USC.

He had the hot hand before going out with an abdominal injury and he had a pretty good season in 2008 until he saw the bench after putting the ball on the turf against ucla and Penn St. At times his attitude has been questioned in the press but that is hard to really know. He made some statements in the past that probably put him in the doghouse but this season he has been completely off the radar.

Last season there were some rumblings that he might go pro but he stuck it out...

But with the season almost over the questions are now being asked...will he stay or will he go?

Gable is one of several draft-eligible Trojans underclassmen who must decide by Jan. 15 whether to go pro or return to school. Unlike many of the others, Gable has played only a bit role this season after being a major contributor a year ago.

Gable started all but one game last season and tied for the team lead with 10 touchdowns. This season the redshirt junior has no starts and just 21 carries as Joe McKnight and Allen Bradford have shared most of the workload.

"It’s been frustrating," Gable said Sunday after USC’s second practice in preparation for the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl. "Anybody would be frustrated. … Why would you play if you don’t care whether you get in or not?

"I care because I want to play. But I can’t do anything about it but keep on doing what I’m doing, which is work hard and let everybody see what I can do."

Gable made quite an impression Sunday, when, according to USC coach Pete Carroll, "he was the best guy on the field." But being a good practice player — and a good soldier after complaining about playing time last season - hasn’t translated into a greater role during games.

We have heard how great players have performed in practice only to see them disappear when game time comes around so I am not taking Gables strong performance as nothing more than just a snapshot in time.

Personally, I think he goes pro. SC will still have a glut of running backs, four off the top of my head, and that is before LOI Day where SC is in the mix for a couple of more top RB's

Here is a little more for the DN...

After rushing for 617 yards on 107 carries with eight touchdowns last year, Gable has been buried behind Joe McKnight and Allen Bradford in the running back rotation during his redshirt junior season, causing him to contemplate whether he'll return to play for the Trojans in 2010 or explore his value in the NFL draft in April.

"(In the past) I've always been basing my decisions off anger, but now I'm thinking clearly," said Gable, who has seen action in 11 of 12 games, but has rushed for only 98 yards on 12 carries with no scores.

"The most important thing is graduating. I've learned that football isn't everything. There is life after football. It's been difficult, but I just get in a rhythm in practice and I forget that I'm not playing anymore. I don't talk about it unless somebody brings it up."

Gable needs three more classes to graduate, but intends to sit down and talk with coach Pete Carroll following the Dec. 26 Emerald Bowl against Boston College in San Francisco about his future prospects.

"Allen is coming back too, but it also depends on who they might bring in," Gable said. "The only thing I know I'll benefit from by coming back is that I'll graduate. But (this year) they were better than me. The best man won the position."

Gable's mature approach hasn't been lost on Carroll, especially following the Trojans' second practice in as many days since a 21-17 loss to Arizona on Dec. 5.

You know Carroll is going to try and get him stay...but he may be in the same as Mark Sanchez. He can take those three classes and be done next semester so his commitment in my eyes is fulfilled...he has no obligation to stay once he has his degree...

It should be interesting.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/usc-football-news-and-notes-1214-emerald-bowl-prep-team-banquet-and-cj-gable-news.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/usc-football-news-and-notes-1214-emerald-bowl-prep-team-banquet-and-cj-gable-news.php Brian Baucham Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:49:01 -0800 TNYC: Random Thoughts From Week 14 Slick Rick, what were you thinking?  Here are my thoughts on Week 14:

  • The hot post-game talk has been about Jeremy Bates/Pete Carroll's decision to drop a bomb on the Bruins after Slick Rick called a useless time-out late in the game.  All I gotta say is, if you take a jab, especially when it's in a RIVALRY game on the opponent's HOME turf, you better expect to get mollywhopped in return. Can't believe I'm quoting Bill Plaschke, but he puts it best:

The conclusion here was that Neuheisel's pettiness in the face of Carroll's professionalism was wrong.

In the end, while his players deserved better, Neuheisel got exactly what he deserved.

I'm laughing at these people getting all butt-hurt over the play ending in a TD.  I'm guessing a 15-yard throw would have been more classy?  At the end of the day, there is no excuse for letting a hobbled Damian Williams straight moss your secondary on a basic post-route.

  • Moving onto recruiting, the big news from the game was Tony Jefferson sporting SC gear and jawing at UCLA players during the pseudo-brawl.  No surprise that Tony decided to decommit today.  He provided some interesting quotes with the news:

"The UCLA players really disrespected me before the game," Jefferson said. "When they saw me, they were all cussing at me, telling me to never come around Westwood again and things like that. These were guys that I had hung out with before and it was a lot of the team. I guess I kind of see it since I was committed there and was wearing USC gear before their big game but I still didn't appreciate it."

So now it's down to USC and Oklahoma.  Following up from my official visit breakdown on Friday, it's pretty clear now that if SC makes a strong push, Tony will be a Trojan.
  • No other big recruiting news from the game.  There have been rumors circling around ND that they'll steal Kyle Prater away, but it all seems like a bunch of junk at this point.  I believe Kyle will stay committed.  I just can't see him flipping his commitment, especially as a Spring enrollee, with all the uncertainty at ND.
  • The latest bowl projections have us going to the Holiday Bowl to play against Nebraska with a win next week.  Decent match-up.  If Zac Lee's knee injury ends up being more serious, then it will be pretty lackluster.
  • Outside of SC, the SEC has some stud freshman running backs.  Trent Richardson from Bama beast on Friday with Mark Ingram looking out of it all game.  Georgia's Washaun Ealey is no slouch either; kid has nice vision.  When it comes to frosh RBs though, all conversations end with Dion Lewis of Pitt.
  • From the list of players SC truly missed out on, anyone catch Chad Jones murdering Joe Adams (former commit) of Arkansas on Saturday?  Can you imagine if SC got Chad Jones and Patrick Peterson?  A Chad Jones/Taylor Mays and Patrick Peterson/Shareece Wright combo would have been murderers row.
  • My favorite Nike Pro Combat jersey goes to Florida State for the garnet jersey/pants combo with black helmets.

Let's finish the regular season on a high note.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/tnyc-random-thoughts-from-week-14.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/tnyc-random-thoughts-from-week-14.php Taylor Mays Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:15:07 -0800 HIGHLIGHTS: UCLA 2009
The defense looked like the defense Trojan fans are accustomed to. Interceptions, fumble recoveries, sacks, blocked passes, tackles for loss of yards was a common sight. Awesome performance!


The offense still sputtered, but it was enough to win the game and that's all that matters. Matt Barkley's 48 yard touchdown pass to Damian Williams late in the 4th quarter capped off a great win over the crosstown rivals. Rick Neuheisel's arrogance and refusal to accept a merciful loss offered by Pete Carroll and USC completely backfired on him. You want to play some football, Ricky? You got it!

The UCLA Bruins were a touchdown away from tying the score for most of the game, and they could have taken pride knowing they hung in there until the final minutes of the 4th quarter. Now the Bruins have nothing to take pride in, thanks to Rick Neuheisel poking a stick at the wasp nest that is Pete Carroll and the USC Trojans. Even the Toilet Bowl is no guarantee for these little cubbies. At least USC is going bowling and their dominance over the finest Westwood has to offer continues.

And basketball, once a source of refuge for the bRuins after a crappy football season, is now a sore subject. UCLA hoops is a laughing stock and to consider them the best team in Southern California is a tasteless joke. Whatever you do, please do not mention Cal State Fullerton or Long Beach State when talking about UCLA basketball.

But come on, it's UCLA! Things are not all bad, right? After all they are the first to 100 NCAA Championships. Even though most normal college sports fans care about the successes of football and basketball and to a lesser extent in baseball, let them take pride knowing their women's cross country team or their men's synchronized diving team just won another NCAA title. It's enough to make you not care.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/highlights-ucla-2009.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/highlights-ucla-2009.php Headlines Mon, 30 Nov 2009 10:27:30 -0800 Discussing the game this free video feature from USCTrojans.com, produced by Mark Haas.
]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/discussing-the-game.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/discussing-the-game.php Taylor Mays Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:41:58 -0800 HIGHLIGHTS: Arizona State 2009 It wasn't the prettiest win, but it's nice to be back in the winning column nonetheless.



Matt Barkley struggled in part due to an injury-plagued receiving corps, but his short pass to Damian Williams who took it 75 yards for a touchdown would be enough for the offense to pull out with a win. Not to mention, it's great material for a highlight reel. Joe McKnight and Allen Bradford each had quietly productive games, rushing for 78 and 67 yards respectively.


It looked as if the defense returned back to its normal form, holding the Sun Devils to 9 points. The Trojans recorded 3 interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown by Will Harris. Seeing more interceptions by the defense is a good sign considering they've only had a total of 3 interceptions coming into this game.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/highlights-arizona-state-2009.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/highlights-arizona-state-2009.php Headlines Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:14:54 -0800 Two Pac-10 DBs are Thorpe semifinalists Posted by ESPN.com's Ted Miller

Two Pac-10 defensive backs -- USC safety Taylor Mays and UCLA cornerback Alterraun Verner -- are among the 12 semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is given annually to the nation's best defensive back.

UCLA safety Rahim Moore also was among five players who earned honorable mention.

This list will be narrowed Nov. 23 to three finalists who will be invited to the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show on Dec. 10. The winner will be announced on the show and the official presentation will be at a formal banquet in Oklahoma City on Feb. 9, 2010.

The semifinalists are:

Javier Arenas, Sr., Alabama
Eric Berry, Jr., Tennessee
Barry Church, Sr., Toledo
Perrish Cox, Sr., Oklahoma State
Joe Haden, Jr., Florida
Brandon Harris, So., Miami (FL)
Taylor Mays, Sr., USC
Tyler Sash, So., Iowa
Darrell Stuckey, Sr., Kansas
Earl Thomas, So., Texas
Alterraun Verner, Sr., UCLA
Kyle Wilson, Sr., Boise State ]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/two-pac10-dbs-are-thorpe-semifinalists.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/two-pac10-dbs-are-thorpe-semifinalists.php Florida Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:42:53 -0800 Matt Barkley Q & A: 10-29-09 mb 1029.jpg
(Photo by Icon Sports Media)

Jeff Fellenzer, a professor at USC's Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism, sat down with Matt Barkley for a very candid Q & A session. Here is a link to that interview and two excerpts

Fellenzer: Have you experienced any special moments when your older teammates really showed faith in you as a leader?

Barkley: At Ohio State, right before we got the ball back for that fourth-quarter drive, [linebacker] Chris Galippo and [safety] Taylor Mays each came up to me at different times, saying, 'We're gonna get the ball back for you. We believe in you.' That was confirmation for me right there, getting all the guys in the mind-set that it doesn't matter who we are or what age we are, hey, we can do this. But I'll remember those two guys coming up and saying that stuff. That was pretty cool.

Fellenzer: What stands out among the things you've learned so far from Pete Carroll?

Barkley: I love everything he says and I try to apply everything, and even try to echo him in interviews . . . just because they're the right things to say. [Laugh] We have three rules: 'Be early' -- it can apply to everything, to class, to outside settings, but especially for football. It shows respect. 'Don't whine, don't complain, don't make excuses,' from Coach [John] Wooden. These all can apply off the field, too. 'Protect the team.' It's simple, but it goes a long way. Also 'protect the ball' is a huge part of the philosophy. It's made me change for the better, just being mindful that if we have control of the ball, obviously they don't . . . and they can't score. That's been a huge thing. Competing is another central theme of the program. I've always been a competitor, but just to hear that reinforced every day, and to have the defense hearing it, too, so they're competing right back . . . it's making me a better player. Being even-keeled, not underestimating your opponents, treating them the same every week. I love all that stuff he says.

There is no goal that USC's Matt Barkley won't pursue [LAT]

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/matt-barkley-q-a-102909.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/matt-barkley-q-a-102909.php Headlines Thu, 29 Oct 2009 14:05:25 -0800 Morning Buzz Taylor Mays discusses the face-mask penalty that caused a referee to get suspended by the Pac-10.

]]> http://www.trojanwire.com/football/morning-buzz.php http://www.trojanwire.com/football/morning-buzz.php Taylor Mays Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:02:53 -0800