Trojans 32, Wolverines 18 - After losing two games in the Rose Bowl in 2006 (one against Texas in the national championship, the other against UCLA to keep them out of another national championship), USC had a lot of doubters. Not any more. While LA news outlets have probably told you the score and a few key stats, here are the best story lines you probably haven't heard:
- This was the first game in which USC was the underdog since the Orange Bowl two years ago. They won that game in a route, too.
- Michigan's defense was hyped before the game. USC's was better. They had 6 sacks (three on just one drive) and Michigan didn't get into the end zone until the 4th quarter. The last touchdown was in garbage time.
- A USC kicker was booted off the team a few days ago for bad grades. Another kicker missed two extra points, giving Michigan hope until the final 7 minutes.
- Brian Cushing was the defensive MVP. At the post game awards, he was mistaken for John David Booty by ESPN radio announcers and SportsIllustrated.com. Both players wear #10.
- Booty and Dwayne Jarrett had amazing statistics and made some spectacular plays, but neither was perfect. Booty's 391 passing yards came on a whopping 45 attempts, and he had a couple really ugly throws. Jarrett dropped an easy catch in the end zone, resulting in a USC field goal and helping Michigan stay in the game.
- George Lucas was the Rose Bowl Parade Grand Marshal and performed the game's coin toss. USC won the toss, and the game. The force was strong in Lucas' alma mater.
- USC returns 16 of 22 starters next year, plus a freshman class coach Pete Carroll considers his best ever (and his classes are frequently the best in the nation). Troy should be a lock for preseason #1.
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We've been without a NFL team for more years than I can remember. And with a team like the Trojans, who needs the NFL? The NFL can go pound sand.
What was so beautiful about this Rose Bowl is not just the USC defense and the big defensive plays, but how the offense was able to capitalize on those plays. USC defense shut down the Michigan offense, but it would have been for naught if the offense hadn't grabbed the torch and sprinted ahead in their part of the relay. Finally, the offense was clicking, and Booty was in a rhythm, no doubt thanks to the great protection he got from his line.
Congratulations to the USC Trojans, out "pro" team. It was great to see them back in winning form, overpowering what many thought was a formidable team.