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USC Trojans vs Washington Huskies Football Preview

No-test September is over for the Men of Troy.

The early-season schedule brought four wins for USC, but it did little to define a team still looking for an identity after major offseason transition.

The Trojans face their first true challenge Saturday when they take on Washington at the Los Angeles Coliseum at 5 p.m. Pacific time.

The matchup pits former USC offensive coordinators Lane Kiffin and Steve Sarkisian against each other. Each coach established his coaching chops under Pete Carroll. The two still talk frequently and remain close friends.

Sarkisian’s first big win as a head coach came at Carroll’s expense last year. The Huskies upended the then-No. 3 Trojans, 16-13, at Husky Stadium. Many USC players spoke out this week and noted the importance of this year’s game because of last year’s outcome.

Having served as USC’s offensive coordinator until last year, Sarkisian is still familiar with many of USC’s players. The Washington staff also features former USC defensive coordinator Nick Holt and former graduate assistant Demetrice Martin, as well as a couple of administrators with USC ties.

The gamesmanship between the two coaches is already on. Sarkisian said that USC’s depth sets the team apart from all of the other teams in the Pacific-10 Conference, including Oregon and Washington. Kiffin playfully dismissed the remark as a game-week tactic.

Though Carroll is no longer lavishing praise on Jake Locker, the Huskies’ quarterback undoubtedly will be a focal point for the Trojans. USC has struggled to keep contain on quarterbacks so far this year. Locker will have plenty to prove after a dismal performance two weeks ago against Nebraska.

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USC’s secondary has been shaky in its first four performances, though it has begun generating turnovers. Huskies wide receiver Jermaine Kearse could also be cause for concern, as he is tied with Ronald Johnson for most touchdown receptions in the Pac-10.

Matt Barkley finally will get his shot against the Huskies after missing last year’s game with an injury. Barkley enters the contest ranked 14th in the nation in passing efficiency. But the sophomore has thrown two interceptions in each of his last two games.

USC may focus on running the ball against Washington. The Huskies gave up 383 rushing yards and six touchdowns to the Nebraska’s high-powered attack on Sept. 18. USC spread the ball around last week to Marc Tyler, Allen Bradford, Stanley Havili and C.J. Gable. Dillon Baxter also saw a lot of late-game carries and could be a factor on Saturday.

Wes Horton’s availability for the game is uncertain following an injury sustained against Washington State. Kiffin did not disclose the injury early in the week. Armond Armstead sat out last week’s game but is expected to be available against the Huskies.

By Mike Schwartz
DFN Sports Staff Writer