Rapid Reaction: The Good, Bad, and Ugly-Stanford vs. USC

The BAD

Defense: Yes, it was already said that the USC defense was good. However, it was also bad. Teams of Stanford’s caliber will NOT always manage to blow nine trips into the redzone and only manage 10 points.

Although it’s a promising sign that USC’s corners are eager to create plays by using their athleticism, you cannot always try to jump routes for interception attempts. Chris Hawkins was burned on a few passes to Ty Montgomery attempting to leap in front of the receiver to knock passes away and intercept passes. Despite the USC corners possessing a great deal of athleticism to create plays, cooler heads need to prevail. It’s a part of a maturation process.

Sep 6, 2014; Stanford, CA, USA; USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith (9) runs with the ball after making a catch against the Stanford Cardinal in the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

USC Receivers not named Nelson Agholor: Only three USC receivers recorded reception stats. This is unacceptable. The Trojans receiving core are a hell of a lot more talented than this. JuJu Smith was unable to recreate his breakout game versus Fresno State, George Farmer only had four catches, Darreus Rodgers and JuJu Smith combined for one catch and -2 yards.

A rapid reaction from week 2 is that Sarkisian and the coaching staff are still unsure on a clear-cut number two receiver. A game as important as Stanford in regards to the use, or lack thereof of Smith and Rogers is proof of that. USC receivers need to step up. The offense possesses too much quality talent for only two receivers and a running back to make any kind of difference.

Pat Haden: Sure Haden gets extra cool points for standing up for his players, however an athletic director should not be storming the field to argue calls. Haden should be extra careful about his passion and actions during games, as this situation has been exaggerated extensively.