This is such a big game Saturday it deserves more than one blog entry. I think we are in for a treat again as we know two great teams will clash in the Coliseum this time.
There is no question the Irish can win the game but there are a few key factors that will determine the outcome. First, will we be able to overcome the speed factor. USC has more speed on both sides of the ball but if the Irish play the right assignments, block and tackle we will be okay. Missed tackles will be a key. Second, it is time for Brady to knock it out of the park. He is not going to win the Heisman unfortunately, but he can put his final stamp on a great career by leading a win for the ages. So his reaction to USC defensive pressure and calmness in the pocket may make the difference. He does not have great stats against USC but he was playing against a National Championship caliber team the past 3 years. Finally, I am really bummed about Carlson being injured. He would have a super game against USC and provide Brady with an important option. Note the lack of production from Carlson's backup last week. That really hurts in this game because very few defenses can cover a good tight end.
So the bowl picture is still interesting. Reading the press and other sources, I don't see the Irish jumping over Michigan under any circumstances which is a bummer. But we could actually end up in the Rose Bowl which would be a trip (literally). We may actually have a better shot at the Rose Bowl if we lose to USC since they will go to the Championship. With Florida and Arkansas still in the mix and the possibilities or reluctance for rematches there are still many possibilities. Any way you slice it the Irish end up in a BCS game against a good team. We may try to attend.
Score prediction later. Happy T-day!
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Don, don't tease us. When I saw Carlson's name in your headline, I thought he might be playing today. Because you're right, we'll miss him very much today, I blieve.
That being said, I think we'll still see a lot of passing today from Brady. Kinda like passing to set up the run like the old 49ers used to do.
LA Times today is pretty tame. Hasn't been any blackboard material at all--Uncle Pete has his boys under control.
I'm still convinced Booty can be forced to have a terrible game. I know we haven't been playing Offensive Goliaths the last few weeks, but I feel like the D-line has improved, and pressure on Booty is the key. Jarrett and Smith will have a field day on our D-backfield if Booty repeatedly has time to throw.
I still don't have a score either. I'll sign in a little later. But not too late. Because you may have heard--WE'RE GOING TO THE GAME!
Beat those Trojans!!
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