Grading the Cougs
Quarterback: C-
Not much room to make plays in this game, but Brink looked overmatched.
Running backs: D
Granted, USC’s front four is dominant. But when the punter is your leading rusher, that’s bad.
Wide receivers: C-
The drops were back, and no one was able to make a play despite injuries in the USC secondary.
Offensive line: D+
Patterson and Cody dominated the interior of the line all night long for the Trojans.
Defensive line: C-
The Cougars continue to struggle to put pressure on opposing quarterbacks without an all-out blitz.
Linebackers: B
Derting had his best game on the stat sheet and Bennett chipped in with the team’s biggest play.
Secondary: D+
They didn’t give up enormous plays, but Leinart picked them apart, throwing to eight receivers.
Special teams: D
Punting the ball to Reggie Bush three times means you’re going to get burned at least once.
Coaching: C-
Going to the bag of tricks early is understandable, but nothing worked and the Cougars had no chance as a result.
Overall: C-
– By Glenn Kasses