Recap | Gametrax
| Boxscore
After fighting through a tight 7-10 deficit into the second quarter, the Trojans
turned on the running game. USC ran the score up to 42-10 before the Cornhuskers
were able to respond with a score of their own. The teams then traded touchdowns
to up the score to 49-17. The final tally was 49-31. This game confirmed USC's
ranking as the #1 team in the nation.
Run, Forrest, Run
The running game was unstoppable, gaining 312 yards on the ground to
Nebraska's 47. Stafon Johnson furthered his claim to being the go-to tailback,
netting 144 yards on just 11 carries (13.1 average). In addition, Stanley Havili
gained 52 yards on two carries and C.J. Gable had 69 yards on just four tries
(17.3 average).
Passing Game Still in Development
Quarterback John David Booty was an efficient 19-30, 2 touchdowns and no
interceptions. Booty spread the ball around the field to 10 different receivers.
At the top of the list, Fred Davis, David Ausberry, Patrick Turner and Stanley
Havili each caught three passes. This is a very young receiving corps and it
will develop as the season progresses.
Stanley, is That You?
Fullback Stanley Havili made a statement in this game that many close to the
program have known all along - he is an integral part of this team. As the
number one fullback, Havili does a lot of things right. Havili runs hard, blocks
well, catches the ball, has a fire in him and a solid work ethic. He had two
carries for 52 yards (an incredible 26 yard average) and three receptions for 22
yards. Havili scored once each on a pass and a run.
O-Line, O-Line
At times the offensive line blew holes wide enough for 3 running backs to run
through. Anchored by Sam Baker on the left side and true freshman Kris O'Dowd at
center, the line blocked well for the tailbacks and protected Booty all night.
The offensive line turned in an incredible game.
Clay Matthews Has Arrived
In his first start for injured linebacker Brian Cushing, Matthews proved his
worth to this team. Cushing took a few snaps at the end of the game, but
Matthews played well throughout the game. Late word is that Clay Matthews broke
his thumb in the game.
Kyle Moore and Everson Griffen
Kyle Moore has played the defensive end position well despite being
challenged by true freshman Everson Griffin who took the starting honors from
Moore. Moore intercepted a Sam Keller pass and took it down to the four yard
line.
John David Booty's Heisman Quest
Booty continues his great leadership and consistent passing. At 19-30, 144
yards, two touchdowns and 49 points on the board, Booty had an excellent
showing. When his young receivers get in a groove, Booty's numbers will rise to
Heisman heights.
Final Notes
Brian Cushing got in the game and with Matthew's broken thumb; a healthy
Cushing for next game is imperative. Wide receivers have yet to claim their
territory, but it's coming. Kris O'Dowd is a keeper. Vincent Joseph and Alfred Rowe were both knocked out of the game but should return soon.