USCw to break SEC streak

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I think the Trojans are going to be a lot more than just “good.” They are my pick to win the BCS title and snap the SEC's run of national titles this year.

With the top QB in the country, the best receiving crew, a 1000-yard back and a seasoned, talented O-line, they will be the most complete offensive team in college football. I don't see anyone on their schedule keeping them under 30 points. Beyond that, it's Matt Barkley's skills, experience and presence why I'm convinced the Trojans have the best shot to run the table. “He is just very consistent in his whole life and that helps him avoid ups and downs,” Lane Kiffin told me recently.

Even when Pete Carroll had USC cranked up, there were still times when the Trojans stubbed their toe. Of course, it's all top teams have the occasional game where they come out flat. It happens in all sports, especially when you're talking about 19 and 20-year–olds. Barkley's leadership and focus should help combat that.

Last year he ran an offense that had two very green receivers, an unproven tailback and almost an entire O-line that was playing for the first time or the first time in their positions. As the personnel around Barkley matured by mid-October, you saw his production soar. His TD-INT ratio was 25-3 and that came against six bowl opponents and in some tricky road venues. He also matured too. You saw improved decision-making. “You saw very few forced balls,” Kiffin said.


Defensively, they're going to be very good in the back-seven. They have a deep, talented secondary. Nickell Robey is an all-American. Even though he's only 5-8, he is a physical, tough kid with great athleticism. (Kiffin told me his vertical jump was measured at 42 inches.) People questioning whether Robey is too short to be a “lock-down corner” should watch the Notre Dame tape. Kiffin said Robey not only shut down Michael Floyd, ND's big future first-rounder, he made him quit. T.J. McDonald leads a strong group of safeties and all three linebackers were impressive as freshmen last season, so they figure to be even better in 2012.

The D-line doesn't seem like it's close to what LSU or even Alabama will have this season, but the Trojans have some experienced ends and George Uko should be one of the best young defensive tackles in college football.

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