Word out of a QB camp is that USC fan Snoop Dogg is Pumped to beat up on some Buckeyes.

Picking USC to finish #1 is typically a safe bet. Last year I picked them over LSU saying, "USC has earned the right to be #1 by default." Well, this year their default status has taken a hit as they slide to #5. The problematic issues include a new quarterback, new offensive lineman and huge personnel losses to the NFL. The positives include they are the University of Southern California and have a team and coach that is always ready to dominate. Their defense will dominate. This year may not be too much different than last year, where they drop a tough game and a game they should win, only to hit stride come bowl season.

2008 Preseason Top 25 Countdown

Mark Sanchez should be a solid quarterback and Mitch Mustain is a backup with big potential and experience. The running back position is deep, with Joe McKnight the most exciting. At wideout Patrick Turner and Vidal Hazelton return with experience and David Ausberry and Ronald Johnson look to put up numbers. The o-line loses 3 starters (including Sam Baker) so how quickly the nimble big dudes gel will determine how well Mark Sanchez can do his thing.

On defense Brian Cushing and Rey Maualuga bring probably the most athletic duo of linebackers on any team. The loss of NT Sedrick Ellis, LB Sedrick Ellis, DE Lawrence Jackson and CB Terrell Thomas should not be discounted for obvious reasons. Even so, talented leadership returns and the defense should be stout.

The schedule is admirable, yet suicidal. The game that is always talked about is the home game in the second week of the season versus Ohio State. For good reasons, this game could set the tone for the BCS Championship race. How well the defense can contain RB Chris Wells and how well the offensive line holds up will determine if they win, period. But the other game people fail to discuss in the opener at Virginia. The "Cardiac Cavaliers" from a year ago hung on by a thread and showed great pride. They've lost some big time talent but RB Mikell Simpson and QB Jameel Sewell could be prove to be among the ACC's best at their positions. Oregon, ASU, Cal and Notre Dame are all home games before finishing at UCLA. I can't help but wonder if the game at Arizona will be tricky.

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Tim Tebow said:

	The Trojans have QB issues for the first time in years. That's why they've dropped some.
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June 16, 2008 | url
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