Better than the Last...

Recently Coach Pete Carroll was quoted as saying, "These guys are young, but I think they'll be better than the set we just lost."

He was surprisingly referring to his LB Corps. And unless you've been under an NFL Draft "Rock", of sorts... you know that all 3 starters from USC's 2009 Class of LB's (Brian Cushing, Rey Maualuga, and Clay Matthews) got drafted in the Top 38 picks. So who and what is Pete talking about?

Well, enter stage right: Chris Gallipo (MLB), Malcolm Smith (WLB), and Michael Morgan (SLB). Gallipo is a Redshirt Sophomore and was the Top LB recruit in the 2007 class... and Morgan and Smith are both Juniors. While all 3 are First-Time starters... their time and experience in the program should have them playing above the expectations of a typical first year guy.

USC runs a basic 4-3 Scheme on defense, and relies heavily on the speed, discipline, and intelligence of their LB's to make plays, fill gaps, and be great in pass coverage. In the interview, Carroll went on to say, "This group isn't as fast as last years guys, but they are smarter football players." A bold statement, nonetheless, but how can you not believe the guy who has been to 8 straight BCS Bowl games (7-1 record). I certainly wont doubt him and I look forward to seeing if USC's new batch of Blue Chip Backers live up to Pete's strong endorsement.

USC opens up with San Jose State on September 5th, followed by the Early Game of the Year at Ohio State on September 12th.