- Does anyone know who USC is playing this week? "This week is always big for our school, big for this program and goes back a long way. The battle of LA," said senior QB Matt Barkley.
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The most unique aspect of the Crosstown Rivalry is the close proximity of the two campuses, which means a ton of familiarity between the rosters. "The main part about this game is you know half the people on their team," said Marqise Lee. "You are going against the people you grew up with throughout your life." - Given that, bragging rights are always on the line for the players and the fans. "I want to win, so I can talk smack back and forth," Lee said. "We are going to keep our composure though. After the game, that's when the smack talking begins."
- Barkley admitted that he would take some pride in finishing his career 4-0 against the Bruins. He remembered his first three games succinctly, "Crazy ending...hurt ankle...blowout."
- The 50-0 "blowout" to which Barkley is referring is ancient history with a new coaching staff and quarterback in Westwood. "They are a much improved team from last year, that's for sure," said Barkley. "We are not even dwelling on that. It's going to be a great match-up."
- The stakes are raised this year as well with a spot in the Pac-12 Championship Game on the line. "Hopefully, it's not my last time playing in the Rose Bowl," said Barkley.
- Silas Redd, who hopes to be healthy enough to play Saturday, is new to the rivalry, but his teammates explained the significance to him. "I am their brother now, so I feel the same way," said Redd, who has major respect for the Rose Bowl given his Big Ten background. "This will be a great opportunity to play there at such a prestigious stadium."
- Robert Woods refuses to be negative about his diminishing statistics. "Each and every Saturday, I go into the game with that thought in my head that it's going to be my day," he said. RB D.J. Morgan, who is one of Woods' closest friends, ribbed him as the media descended upon the junior receiver. "Why do they want to interview you, you've got two catches for -3 [yards]?" Woods relayed the story with a smile.
- If Marqise Lee's prediction is correct, he will need some help from Woods. "I think it's going to be a shootout," said Lee. "It's going to be a good game."
- Here is Lane Kiffin's post-practice press conference...
