two major questions now are (1) how will this effect USC's recruiting and (2) who will be the new coach at USC?



-- Modified on 1/11/2010 2:23:39 PM

and Jack Del Rio. I don't think their recruiting will be hurt so much over Carroll's leaving as the uncertainty over the possible NCAA sanctions.

these guys are at the top of USC's list, it would be a clear sign that USC puts a higher value on ex-NFL coaches than guys currently in the colege ranks.  At any rate, we'll see what happens.  I'm sure more names will pop up.

it won't take 9 years for Tennessee to be investigated for possible NCAA violations. Though Lane does have a very hot wife.

-- Modified on 1/11/2010 7:48:36 PM

For the period from the end of John Robinson's first stint as coach, until Pete Carroll arrived, we had to suffer through mediocrity.  Look at the comparison:

1983-1986, Ted Tollner.  26-20-1.  1 Rose Bowl win.  No wins against Notre Dame.  Included a 4-6-1 season (my senior year!).  

1987-1992, Larry Smith.  44-25-3.  1 Rose Bowl win.  No wins against Notre Dame.  A 3-8 season, which included a loss (at home!) to Memphis State.

1993-1997, John Robinson (second stint).  45-21-2.  1 Rose Bowl win.  This time John Robinson was a shadow of his former self.

1998-2000, Paul Hackett.  19-18.  No Rose Bowl wins.  No bowl wins at all.

Now, look at Pete Carroll, 2001-2009.  97-19, 4 Rose Bowl wins, 2 Orange Bowl wins (one of those for the national championship).

How bad are those 4 previous coaches?  Two of them (Ted Tollner and Paul Hackett) were assistant coaches for the Oakland Raiders this year!!

Next year is going to be a long season.
Inspector Morse
USC, B.S. 1984