Go Joe Bruin
Fansided

Know Your Opponent: UCLA Football vs USC Trojans

By Michael Chavez

Nov 12, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Jordan Lasley (2) returns a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half of a NCAA football game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Pasadena, CA, USA; UCLA Bruins wide receiver Jordan Lasley (2) returns a blocked punt for a touchdown against the Oregon State Beavers during the first half of a NCAA football game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
Nov 12, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates with the team mascot as he walks back to the locker room following a 26-13 victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Sam Darnold (14) celebrates with the team mascot as he walks back to the locker room following a 26-13 victory against the Washington Huskies at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports /

USC Offense

Under the guidance of Darnold, the Trojans have seen their offense explode for points and yards this season. Solidly built at 6’4 225lbs, Darnold already has pro size to go along with his pro ready arm. He is a bit of a gunslinger but that hasn’t gotten him into too much trouble as he’s kept his turnovers to a minimum at just six interceptions. Only time will tell if Darnold is the real thing but one thing is for sure, he’s a major part of this offensive machine. It isn’t all him though.

Both RB’s Ronald Jones and Justin Davis are averaging over six yards a carry behind a massive offensive line. Both are gifted runners who can find the crease and take it the distance but Jones is the more elusive of the two. While USC doesn’t throw to it’s backs too often, both are averaging over seven yards per catch.

The guys doing most of the catching are highlighted by one of the top receivers in the nation and potential high draft pick Juju Smith-Schuster. Blessed with impressive size, speed and hand eye coordination, Smith-Schuster is a nightmare matchup for any defensive coordinator. He is the go to target on any team but has been dinged up this season which has opened up opportunities for other guys.

Related Story: Has the Spread Offense Salvaged the Bruins' Season?

Darreus Rogers has come on strong this season and is also a big target for young Darnold. With both him and JuJu on the field you have to hope your corners can stand up to these big boys. The emerging threat though comes from the TE position. Daniel Imatorbhebhe had seven catches going into last week’s game against the university of Washington.

In that game he had five catches for 78 yards and a score. He’s a dangerous threat to the seam of any defense looking to double up Smith-Schuster or Rogers with safety help over the top. Should teams try split those safeties wide, look out because here comes Imatorbhebhe to give you anxiety and then massive depression.

Let’s get back to that offensive line we mentioned earlier. This group is made up of some massive individuals led by RT Zach Banner who is listed at 6’9 360lbs, LT Chad Wheeler (6’7 310lbs) and OG Damien Mama (6’4 325lbs).

In addition to outweighing most defensive lines they face, they have the size to wall off any potential pass rushers. However they are not the most fleet footed and can be beaten with speed. The only reason they don’t give up more sacks is because of the escapability of Darnold.