A couple interesting stats...

[Sun Tzu]

we usually hear that the best coached teams show their mettle on special teams on discipline. So imagine my suprise when I saw which team is #117 in punt return defense, #86 in kickoff return defense, and #93 in most penalty yardage.

Texas has played 3 of the top 6 teams in kickoff returns, yet is #9. Also played 5 of the top 10 punt return teams, yet #5. Better with penalties than USC but not much.

 

[Scott4USC]

Unfortunately USC has never been great on special teams with Pete Carroll. USC also has never had a special teams coach.

This year USC has every excuse in the book to blame poor special teams play. INJURIES! Who plays special teams? LB's and DB's. Where on the team has USC been hit with injuries the most? LB's and DB's. Of course USC will suffer on special teams play.

If USC is fortunate enough to play in the Rose Bowl, the team will be as healthy as they ever been and I am sure USC will even use starters on special teams! You can bank on that!