USC Trojans

Coming off an extremely strong 2005 season, USC has high hopes for the future. That being said, not everyone in the media exactly agrees with that notion. In fact, many have picked the USC Trojans to finish low, not even winning their own conference in most cases. Indeed, an argument can be made for such a demise to the powerhouse program following a troubled offseason that included sexual assault charges against backup quarterback Mark Sanchez, injuries to top players such as running back Hershel Dennis, the suspension of Heisman candidate Dwayne Jarrett, and the departures of superstars Reggie Bush, Lendale White, and Matt Leinart in addition to three of the starting five offensive lineman departing to the NFL.

That being said, Dwayne Jarrett has been reinstated and won’t miss a game, Hershel Dennis is recovering and a whole fleet of outstanding freshman talent, in addition to the return of potential star running back Chauncey Washington, who’s been out due to academic reasons, make it so that the running back “issue” may, in fact, prove to be a strength for the Trojans this year, the charges against Mark Sanchez were dropped and the QB has been looking very good in practice, and an arguably even better offensive line willed with amazing talent, including two Outland trophy candidates, is prepared to hit the trenches and punish opponents.

The Trojans may not be returning too many starters, but if they can make it past a pretty tough preseason they will be able to gain some experience on their young all stars (their entire roster is filled with blue-chip high school recruits), and possibly even be able to develop another championship caliber team. Such a team would be invaluable if the Trojans can remain undefeated until the Irish come into town in late November for the highly anticipated meeting between the two teams.

Can the Trojans continue their dynasty and dominance in the Pac-10 and in the nation? Can they win another championship? They definitely can, and will the talent they have on the team thanks to three years of having the #1 recruiting class, the answer just might be that they will.