All losses intensely sting the players and coaches, creating pain and queasiness deep inside.
But this one did something different.
Saturday's 47-20 loss at Oregon created shame and embarrassment for the Trojans, who were utterly outplayed and are now left with loads of disturbing film to dissect on this Tell the Truth Monday. The defeat also produced a cutting question.
What do they do now?
Plain and simple, the Trojans go back to the principles that have worked for the last seven-plus seasons: Practice, tireless work and a trust in the system that's brought consecutive 11-win seasons, conference titles and BCS bowl game appearances since 2002. Knee-jerk reactions are left in the newspapers and on TV, as they don't have any place in the USC football machine. The team will return to its foundations, looking intently at Saturday's issues through a lens that's been crafted over the years of many ups and some downs.
In fact, the recuperation has already started. Coaches spent all Sunday breaking down the tape and also looking to the future, namely the Arizona State game this coming weekend. Players are in strength and conditioning workouts all morning, and the Trojans will come together for meetings starting at 2:15 this afternoon.
The road to redemption and the route to resurgence have begun.
University Southern California Trojans
Wednesday, July 08
Wednesday, July 08
Wednesday, July 08
Monday, July 06
