Thoughts from Saturday's mock game, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- Behind sturdy and oftentimes dominant performances by the first-team offense and defense, the Trojans beat the black-shirted service teams, 36-0, on a steamy afternoon at the Coliseum. In their final tune-up before the regular season opens next Saturday, the top-unit Trojan offense scored touchdowns on five of its eight drives in the two-hour scrimmage, while the first-line defense snagged three interceptions and completely shut down the scout-team offense.
- Matt Barkley was an efficient 10-for-17 for 159 yards and a passing and rushing touchdown. His one interception -- and only true mistake on the day -- came on the opening drive, when defensive end Devon Kennard tipped a pass that was eventually caught by cornerback Byron Moore. Of Barkley's six drives, four ended with a touchdown.
- Tailback Stafon Johnson scored two short touchdowns, while Barkley and Marc Tyler both had a short scoring run too. Tight end Blake Ayles snagged a four-yard catch for a touchdown for the offense's other score on the day.
- Drew McAllister, Kevin Thomas and T.J. Bryant each had an interception for the top-unit defense.
- In addition to the picks, the first-team defense also gang-tackled tailback Curtis McNeal in the end zone for a safety. Linebacker Jordan Campbell received credit for the safety.
- Wideout Brice Butler was the game's leading receiver, catching four passes for 66 yards.
- The first-team offense was ripe for the big play Saturday, with six plays going 20 yards or longer.
- In two late-scrimmage series, Aaron Corp went 5-for-7 for 89 yards and led one scoring drive.
- Wideout Ronald Johnson fractured his left collarbone during the scrimmage and is expected to miss six weeks.
- Heisman Trophy winner Charles White watched the mock game from the Coliseum sidelines.
University Southern California Trojans
Thursday, August 20
Wednesday, August 19
Wednesday, August 19
Wednesday, August 19
