Defensive Trio Return to USC

The USC Trojans received a huge boost for 2009, when head coach Pete Carroll announced Monday, that All-American safety Taylor Mays, cornerback Josh Pinkard and tailback C.J. Gable would return next season.

Mays' return bolsters a defense that lost its entire starting linebacker corps, two defensive linemen and safety Kevin Ellison. Mays, an All-American and Thorpe Award finalist, was projected as a first-round draft pick in the NFL draft. Juniors and third-year sophomores, including quarterback Mark Sanchez, have until Thursday to declare for the April draft. Josh Pinkard, who plays cornerback and safety, is awaiting word from the NCAA regarding his petition for a sixth year of eligibility.

Pinkard was honorable mention All Pacific-10 Conference selection last season after missing two seasons with knee injuries. Mays and Pinkard return means USC's defense suddenly does not look as weak as it was expected when their departures were prematurely assumed. The Trojans expected to lose 10 starters but will return starting corner Shareece Wright, who redshirted in 2008 following a neck injury along with the afore mentioned Mays and Pinkard.

The big question now for USC is the future of quarterback Mark Sanchez. He is expected to return for his senior season, but that decision could be altered if Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford announces he is turning pro before Thursday's deadline. NFL analysts project Sanchez could be the No. 2 quarterback taken in the draft behind Georgia quarterback Matthew Stafford if Bradford stays in college.

Mays announcement that he will return will definitely help USC remain the dominant team it has been in the last decade. Mays return eases the blow of losing the stars of the linebacking core Rey Maluanga and Brian Cushing. Look for USC to dominate even if Sanchez does not return for the 2009 season. Aaron Corp and Mitch Mustain are more than adequate replacements for Sanchez should he enter the NFL Draft. Corp and Mustain were top tier recruits coming out of high school.

USC will again be dominant with the return of these three key players back to TROY. We all know the Trojans have a reload system every year like no other team has had in the last two decades. Don’t be surprised if the Trojans bring it home in 2009. Best of luck to Gable, Mays, and Pinkard in 09’.

Sincerely,


C for Victors