USC's Key to Beating Oregon: Pressuring Justin Herbert
Can USC beat Oregon? If so, it starts with stopping QB Justin Herbert. The Trojans are without their best pass rusher, which means everyone else will have to do more to limit his effectiveness. Don't be surprised if Clancy Pendergast throws the kitchen sink at the Heisman contender.
The Gist
USC's pass rush wasn't particularly good against Colorado until the fourth quarter, after Steven Montez might have suffered a concussion. The Trojans are still missing their most effective rusher in Drake Jackson. This is the week he might have meant the most, as Oregon's Justin Herbert is one of the nation's best passers, and easily the best one USC will face this season. He's surrounded by an athletic and physical offensive line, deep receiving corps and strong rushing attack. In other words, making Herbert uncomfortable will take a group effort. Given that he isn't a threat with his legs, USC should have an easier time defending the run. At least that's been the case thus far this season.
Key Quote
"Justin Herbert's a great quarterback. He does a lot of things well. He's a big, strong guy, he's an NFL talent. Our coaches put it on us. If you want to prove yourself, make a name for yourself and try to go to the NFL, this is the game to do it. ... The keys to this game is getting the quarterback on the ground and making sure we put pressure on him."
X Factor
Defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast and Chad Kauha'aha'a lamented the lack of pressure USC was able to generate last week, especially on early downs and from the edges. They noted the need to better disguise their coverages and pressures. With Jackson still out, expect the Trojans to blitz with an assortment of linebackers and defensive backs in hopes of confusing Herbert and moving him off his platform. It's unlikely that the defensive line will get home on its own.
The return of defensive end Christian Rector could prove significant. He hasn't really been healthy or effective all season but perhaps that changes after being sidelined the past two weeks. Likewise, linebacker Palaie Gaoteote is also back from an ankle injury that kept him out two weeks. He hasn't been tasked with pursuing the QB much this year but he's more than capable. This would be a good week for outside linebacker Hunter Echols to have the best game of his career. He might be the team's best rusher at this point but will need to be more consistent to warrant more snaps. USC could use contributions from defensive end Caleb Tremblay, linebacker Kana'i Mauga, its nickels and safeties as well. Losing Jackson really is a huge loss.
-- Adam Maya is a USC graduate and has been covering the Trojans since 2003. Follow him on Twitter @AdamJMaya.
