University Southern California Trojans
USC Defensive Stars Shine
June 21, 1999 | Football
Aug. 30, 1998
LOS ANGELES - Trojan All-American defenders Daylon McCutcheon and Chris Claiborne should talk to each other more often.
Trailing Purdue at halftime in the 9th Kick-off Classic, McCutcheon said, "we had a conversation. I said we've got to make a play. We knew one of us had to make a play. It turns out both of us did." On the same pivotal play.
Late in the third quarter with game tied at 17, McCutcheon closed quickly on a Purdue receiver and stripped the ball. It suddenly popped free and into the hands of Caliborne at the USC 31.
Claiborne Interception Electrifies Coliseum [headline]
"It was big-time," McCutcheon exclaimed. "I just reacted. I jumped the slant. I yanked his arms. I didn't know Chris got it. I just stripped the ball and heard the crowd."
Indeed, the crowd of 56.623 roared because the Trojans were coming from behind.
"Daylon made a great play," Claiborne added. "I was fortunate to be in the position to catch the ball."
That turnover, the first of the game, finally halted Purdue's passing clinic. It was converted into the go-ahead score, a 45-yard Adam Abrahms field goal early in the fourth quarter.
USC's aggressive defense forced three turnovers in the second half. Defensive back Antuan Simmons forced one fumble and recovered another.
"Turnovers are h-u-g-e," McCutcheon said with emphasis. "It was really important."
The big-play defense turned around the game and provided USC Head Coach Paul Hackett with a 27-17 win in his debut. "We needes something to turn the tide," Hackett said, "and that electrified the sideline."
Purdue Coach Joe Tiller tipped his hat to the Trojan defensive backs. "I'm not sure we'll play against a better secondary all year."
And it all started with one brief conversation from USC's two talented All-Americas.
