Early Exiting Trojans

After their bid at history fell short against the Longhorns of Texas, life at USC has moved on. Part of that process would inevitably involve change of players. Although the loss to graduation of key seniors Matt Leinart, Taitusi "Deuce" Lutui, and Tom Malone were unavoidable, as was the loss of Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush to the NFL inevitable. The loss of other key juniors puts the Trojan squad in a new situation. They really haven't had to worry about filling spots because there were always talented and tested players ready to take their place.

However, the list of players leaving early is considerable. LenDale White, USC season TD record holder and who likely would have been the MVP of the Rose Bowl had it not been for Vince Young, declared. Fred Matua and Winston Justice, keys to the outstanding line responsible for the amazing "Thunder and Lightning" attack, also declared. Matua stated that he needs to take care of his family (his mother has medical issues... we wish Fred and his family all the best). Then recently, junior safety and defensive standout Darnell Bing declared.

Although LAist fully expects USC to recover from the losses of those key juniors, their departure could possibly mean that we enter the football season with a new #1 in the pre-season ranking for the first time since 2003. Changes indeed. But the more things change, the more they stay the same. USC will again have a top tier recruiting class as well as talented players at the ready to defend their conference title. We will see just how strong the "new look" Trojans come out this fall.