The 2007 University of Southern California Trojans football team represents the University of Southern California (USC) in the college football season of 2007. The team is coached by Pete Carroll and will play their home games at the Los Angeles Coliseum.

Before the season

Pre-season outlook

The Trojans were selected No. 1 in all national pre-season polls and are expected to again be in the running for the National Championship.^[1][2][3][4] The team received a boost in the offseason when many draft-eligible juniors decided to return to school for their senior seasons, leading to the Trojans being tabbed as the preeminent national championship favorites for 2007. As expected, USC was at the top of the first Coaches Poll of the season, released on August 3, 2007, with 45 of a possible 60 first-place votes; other teams receiving first-place votes were #2 Louisiana State University (LSU) with 4 votes, #3 Florida with 6 votes, and #5 Michigan with 2 votes.^[5] USC was also at the top of the first Associated Press Poll, released on August 18, with 62 of 65 first-place votes, with #2 LSU receiving 2 votes and #3 West Virginia receiving one.^[6] In mid-August, all twelve experts polled by ESPN picked USC to win the season's BCS Championship Game.^[7] On the day before the season, three of four experts at Sports Illustrated online predicted USC would win the BCS Championship Game, attributing the decision to the Trojan defense.^[8]

In terms of overall talent, Carroll stated that the 2007 squad is the "most competitive team we've had" during his six year tenure as coach.^[9] Senior starting quarterback John David Booty will enter the season as a front-runner for the Heisman Trophy.^[10] Booty, along with returning senior starting-tackle Sam Baker, are ranked as two of the "Top 20 Players Heading Into 2007" by Sports Illustrated.^[11]

The Trojans entered pre-season fall camp well stocked at the running back position, with 10 former high school Super Prep All-Americans, nine of which were Prep Star all-Americans and seven were Parade all-Americans.^[12] The exceptional running back situation at USC was a major factor in Sports Illustrated forecasting the 2007 season as "The Year of the Running Back."^[13] In judging USC as a pre-season favorite, particular emphasis was made on the defense with 10 returning starters and key backups returning to a defense that was considered to be one of the best in the nation during 2006 season, the highlight being the linebacking corp led by Brian Cushing, Keith Rivers and Rey Maualuga under a return to a 4-3 defense.^[14][15]

At the Pacific 10 Conference media day, the Trojans were the unanimous pre-season pick to win the conference^[16]; this was USC's fifth year in a row as the favorite to win the conference title, and only the third time in conference history that a team had been picked unanimously (the other two were USC in 2004 and 2005).^[17]

Recruiting class

USC was able to bring in another top recruiting class, highlighted by the top three players from the "ESPN 150": #1 Joe McKnight (RB); #2 Chris Galippo (LB); and #3 Marc Tyler (RB).^[18] The Trojans also landed Scout.com's National Player of the Year and top overall prospect for 2007, Everson Griffen.^[19] Other notable signees included Rivals.com's #1 WR Ronald Johnson and 5-star OL Kristofer O'Dowd. Despite recruiting substantially fewer players than other programs, USC signed the #1 or #2 recruiting class in various rankings, along with the Florida Gators, the winners of the 2006 National Championship.^[20][21] In the pre-season, McKnight and Johnson were named two of the top-10 impact freshman for 2007.^[22]

The football program received 18 letters of intent on National Signing Day, February 7, 2007, listed below:

US college sports recruiting information for 2007 recruits
Name	Hometown	High school / college	Height	Weight	40‡	Commit date
Joe McKnight RB	River Ridge, LA	John Curtis Christian HS	6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)	195 lb (88 kg)	4.35	Feb 7, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 92
Everson Griffen DE	Avondale, AZ	Agua Fria Union HS	6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)	270 lb (120 kg)	4.46	Dec 20, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 83
Ronald Johnson WR	Muskegon, MI	Muskegon HS	6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)	185 lb (84 kg)	4.40	Feb 4, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 82
Chris Galippo LB	Anaheim, CA	Servite HS	6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)	240 lb (110 kg)	4.60	Feb 1, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 90
Marc Tyler RB	Westlake Village, CA	Oaks Christian HS	6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)	215 lb (98 kg)	4.50	Jun 14, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 90
Kristofer O'Dowd C	Tucson, AZ	Salpointe Catholic HS	6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)	315 lb (143 kg)	5.00	Dec 14, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 79
Aaron Corp QB	Villa Park, CA	Orange Lutheran HS	6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)	195 lb (88 kg)	4.60	May 3, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 82
Marshall Jones FS	Westlake Village, CA	Oaks Christian HS	6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)	190 lb (86 kg)	4.50	Jun 19, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 84
Da'John Harris DT	Gardena, CA	Junipero Serra HS	6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)	280 lb (130 kg)	4.85	Jan 4, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 79
Martin Coleman OT	Huntington Beach, CA	Edison HS	6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)	290 lb (130 kg)	4.80	Apr 25, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 81
Michael Reardon DE	Villa Park, CA	Orange Lutheran HS	6 ft 6 in (1.98 m)	260 lb (120 kg)	4.70	Jun 14, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 78
Malcolm Smith ATH	Woodland Hills, CA	Taft HS	6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)	215 lb (98 kg)	4.45	Jan 26, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 78
Broderick Green RB	Little Rock, AR	Pulaski Academy	6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)	230 lb (100 kg)	4.57	Feb 7, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 76
Brandon Carswell WR	Milpitas, CA	Milpitas HS	6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)	180 lb (82 kg)	4.50	Dec 16, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 76
Jordan Campbell LB	Norco, CA	Norco HS	5 ft 11 in (1.80 m)	230 lb (100 kg)	4.60	Oct 17, 2006
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 73
Christian Tupou DT	Sacramento, CA	Grant Union HS	6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)	275 lb (125 kg)	4.80	Feb 5, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 73
Rhett Ellison TE	Mountain View, CA	St. Francis HS	6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)	235 lb (107 kg)	4.65	Feb 6, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 76
Trey Henderson DE	Vancouver, BC	Vancouver College Prep	6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)	270 lb (120 kg)	4.90	Feb 4, 2007
	Recruiting star ratings: Scout:   Rivals:   247Sports: N/A    ESPN grade: 40
Overall recruiting rankings: Scout: #2   Rivals: #2
‡ Refers to 40 yard dash Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height, weight and 40 time. In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale. Sources: "Southern Cal Commit List for 2007". Rivals.com. Retrieved 2007-02-07. "Scout.com Football Recruiting: USC". Scout.com. Retrieved 2007-02-07. "RecruitTracker 2007: USC". ESPN.com. Retrieved 2007-02-07. "Scout.com Team Recruiting Rankings". Scout.com. Retrieved 2007-02-07. "2007 Team Ranking". Rivals.com. Retrieved 2007-02-07.

Transfers

In May, the Trojans were joined by former Arkansas quarterback Mitch Mustain, who was 8-0 as a starter during his freshman (and only) year with the Razorbacks.^[23] Mustain joined fellow Arkansas teammate and wide receiver Damian Williams, who transferred from Arkansas before the 2006 bowl season. Due to NCAA transfer rules all would be unable to compete until 2008 (however they would be allowed on the scout team).^[23]

In early summer, Jordan Cameron, a former freshman basketball player from Brigham Young University also transferred to USC to play football as a wide receiver.^[24] However, when some of Cameron's units from Brigham Young did not transfer to USC, he was needed to withdraw and attend Ventura College, missing the season but with the option to try and rejoin the team in 2008 (regardless, he would have been ineligible to play in 2007 due to NCAA transfer rules).^[25]

With the late 2006 dismissal of Troy Van Blarcom (academics) and the death of Mario Danelo, USC was left with one experienced kicker:^[26] David Buehler, 2006 junior college transfer from Santa Ana College who competed mainly at fullback and safety but was used for one, successful field goal the previous season.^[27] In July 2007, Joe Houston, a junior college kicker from El Camino College, joined the team as a "preferred walk on", guaranteed a non-scholarship spot on the team.^[26] As a junior college transfer, Houston would be able to play for the Trojans immediately. USC also recruited former University of Nebraska kicker, Jordan Congdon, but will not be eligible for the 2007 season; and Brad Smith, formerly of Davidson College who is eligible because the NCAA permits graduated non-scholarship players a one-time transfer with immediate eligibility.^[28]

Departures

In addition to graduating starting senior All-Americans Steve Smith (wide receiver) and Ryan Kalil (center), as well as all-conference linebackers Dallas Sartz and Oscar Lua, the Trojans also lost junior All-American Dwayne Jarrett, who was their leading receiver in 2005 and 2006, to the NFL.

The Trojans entered fall training camp with a high number of scholarship running backs (10), all of which were highly touted recruits; in August, midway through camp, running back Emmanuel Moody announced he was transferring from USC.^[29] Moody, who was the second leading rusher in the 2006 season, gained 458 yards on 79 carries in a rotating platoon of running backs in 2006; he had just recently been one of three USC running backs appearing on the regional cover of Sports Illustrated's college football preview edition.^[30][29] Looking to be a featured player, Moody stated he had "felt forgotten" coming into training camp because of an ankle injury that forced him to sit out the Trojans' last four games of the 2006 season and a hamstring injury that caused him to sit out nearly all of spring practice; he then bruised his knee at a mid-camp scrimmage and had to sit out further.^[30] After looking at several schools, including Oklahoma State and North Carolina, Moody transferred to the University of Florida.^[31]

Also in August, backup receiver and redshirt freshman Jamere Holland was dismissed from the team, although not for any violation for team rules and he was allowed to stay on scholarship for the year; Holland redshirted last season after breaking his collarbone, reinjured it during spring practice and had clashed with coaches during his return to fall camp.^[32]

Offseason news

After ending the 2006 season on a high note by winning the 2007 Rose Bowl Game, USC was hit by tragedy when two-year starting placekicker Mario Danelo was found dead at the bottom of a cliff in San Pedro, California on the night of January 6, 2007. Danelo was expected to start the 2007 season. For the 2007 season, USC players will wear a #19 sticker on their helmets in honor of Danelo; in addition the Kennedy-Jones practice field had the number "19" sprayed onto its end zones and the Coliseum will have a banner above the player's tunnel with Danelo's name and the goal-post pads will pay tribute to him.^[33][34]

On January 23, 2007, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis hired then-USC offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin as the new head coach of the Raiders, making the 31-year-old Kiffin the youngest head coach in Raiders history, and the youngest head coach since the formation of the modern NFL.^[35] The following week, Pete Carroll named Steve Sarkisian as the new offensive coordinator for USC. Sarkisian had interviewed with the Raiders for their vacant head coach position but pulled himself out of the running and decided to stay at USC where he had been the assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach.^[36]

Some intra-conference controversy arose in March 2007, when Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh was quoted as saying "[Pete Carroll]'s only got one more year, though. He'll be there one more year. That's what I've heard. I heard it inside the staff." Upon further questions, Harbaugh claimed he had heard it from staff at USC. The comment caused a rebuke from Carroll and adds some intrigue to their October 6 game. ^[37] At the Pacific 10 Conference media day (July 26, 2007), Harbaugh praised the Trojans, stating "There is no question in my mind that USC is the best team in the country and may be the best team in the history of college football"; the declaration, especially in light of his earlier comment, garnered more media attention.^{[17][16][38][39]}

In early July, LSU coach Les Miles stirred some inter-conference controversy when he publicly criticized USC's 2007 schedule in front of LSU boosters; though the two schools hadn't played each other since 1984, the LSU Tiger faithful maintained a strong grudge against the Trojans after they shared the national title in the controversial 2003 season.^[40] LSU and the Michigan were ranked as the pre-season #2 team in various polls. Coincidentally, by week five of the 2007 season, there were questions as to whether USC's schedule was actually harder than LSU's, given their opponents' early-season performances.^[41][42]

Schedule

The 2007 Trojans schedule was ranked the 8th hardest in the country.^[43] Before the season, the road schedule was ranked as the 6th toughest.^[44] Within the Pac-10, the schedule ranked as the 2nd toughest.^[45]

9/1/20077:15 p.m.Idaho*No. 1

FSNW 38–1090,917 9/15/20075:00 p.m.at No. 14 Nebraska*No. 1

ABCW 49–3184,959 9/22/20075:00 p.m.Washington StateNo. 1

ABCW 47–1486,876 9/29/20075:00 p.m.at WashingtonNo. 1

ABCW 27–2468,654 10/6/20074:00 p.m.StanfordNo. 1

VersusL 23–2485,125 10/13/200712:30 p.m.ArizonaNo. 7

ABCW 20–1384,671 10/20/200712:30 p.m.at Notre Dame*No. 9

NBCW 38–080,795 10/27/200712:00 p.m.at No. 5 OregonNo. 8

FSNL 17–2459,277 11/3/20075:00 p.m.Oregon StateNo. 15

ABCW 24–385,713 11/10/20075:00 p.m.at No. 24 CaliforniaNo. 15

ABC/ESPN/ESPN2W 24–1772,516 11/22/20075:00 p.m.at No. 6 Arizona StateNo. 12

ESPNW 44-2471,706 12/1/20071:30 p.m.UCLANo. 9

ABC

Template:CFB Schedule End

Roster

Template:2007 USC Trojans football roster

Coaching staff

Game notes

Idaho (September 1)

USC opened its season hosting the University of Idaho Vandals of the Western Athletic Conference, under first year coach Robb Akey. Trojans Defensive Coordinator Nick Holt had previously been the head coach of the Idaho Vandals between 2004-2005; previous to that he was USC's linebackers coach from 2001 to 2003 under Carroll. The game was scheduled in 2005 during Holt's tenure with the Vandals.^[46] After Holt's sudden departure in 2005, Idaho tried to get out of the game; the Vandals athletic program received $600,000 for their appearance in the game.^[47] The last time the Vandals played USC, in 1929, they were in the same conference, the Pacific Coast Conference, where USC dominated the Vandals, winning all seven games between 1922-1929 by a combined score of 215–20.^[48] USC entered the 2007 contest as six-touchdown favorites.^[46]

USC controlled the game, but did not exert the level of domination expected.^[49] After taking a 21–0 lead into the second quarter, the offense showed signs of sputtering; the second teams took over for the 4th quarter. Booty completed 21 of 32 passes for 206 yards, threw for three touchdowns and one interception; though he did not convert on a fourth down play in short yardage and was unable to find a rhythm.^[50] Primary receiver Patrick Turner was held out of the game to recover from a stinger received in the previous week's practice; cornerback Josh Pinkard was also held out to recover from knee soreness. As a result, young receivers David Ausberry and Vidal Hazelton handled the primary wide receiver duties.^[49] The highlight of the Trojan offense were the running backs, who rushed for 214 yards while Idaho was held to 98. The role was run by committee: with the debut of redshirt freshman Stafon Johnson (64 yards in 12 carries, 2 touchdown runs), who scored the first touchdown of the game, as well as C.J. Gable (68 yards in 8 carries, 1 touchdown reception), who made an impressive 33-yard run, and fullback Stanley Havili who made several receptions, including one for a touchdown; the game marked the debut of heralded USC true freshman running back Joe McKnight, who made a spectacular run in the third quarter that was likened to those of predecessor Reggie Bush.^[50] Kristofer O'Dowd became the first true freshman to start at center for the Trojans due to an injury to Matt Spanos, earning positive reviews for his performance.^[51][52] Although the defense did not cause many turnovers and lost key linebacker Brian Cushing to an ankle sprain in the first quarter, it met enough expectations to remain ranked among the top defenses in the country.^[53]

In honor of Trojan kicker Mario Danelo, who died just after the 2006 season, a special ceremony was held before the beginning of the game. Also, after scoring its first touchdown, USC intentionally lined up for the PAT without a kicker, taking a 5-yard delay of game in tribute to their late teammate.^[54]

at Nebraska (September 15)

After a bye week, the Trojans visited the Nebraska Cornhuskers in Lincoln, Nebraska. In the pre-season, the game was named as one of the candidates for the 10 most important games of 2007, particularly for the Huskers trying to show progress under 4th year head coach Bill Callahan.^[55][56] The game marks the first time a #1-ranked team has visited Lincoln since 1978.^[57] Because of the significance of the game, ESPN College GameDay chose the game as the site of its weekly broadcast.^[58]

Callahan had been criticized for his conservative play-calling during the 2006 game in Los Angeles, where it appeared the Huskers were playing to not get blown out by the Trojans rather try for an upset victory. In that game the normally prolific West Coast offense of Nebraska, which had produced 541 yards a game, was corralled on the ground and attempted only 17 passes in a 28–10 Husker loss. For 2007, Callahan pledged to play more aggressively, using running back Marlon Lucky and quarterback Sam Keller.^[59] Keller, the Huskers redshirt senior starting quarterback, was a 2006 transfer from Arizona State; as a Sun Devil Keller started the first seven games of his 2005 junior season, throwing for 2,165 yards, before a disastrous game against USC where, after leading ASU to a 21–3 halftime lead, he and the offense fell apart on the way to a 38–28 loss where he was sacked five times and threw five interceptions.^[60] Keller spent 2006 on the Huskers on the scout team, as per NCAA transfer rules.

The Trojans stayed in nearby Omaha and practiced at a local high school; Carroll took the rare step of closing practice to outsiders after a local radio station announced the location.^[61] The game marked the return of primary receiver Patrick Turner and running back Chauncey Washington from injury; linebacker Brian Cushing, who injured his ankle early against Idaho, had not fully recovered but was allowed to suit-up as a reserve.^[62] Senior center Matt Spanos remained injured, and true-freshman Kris O'Dowd was called to start again. Veteran secondary member Josh Pinkard was lost for the season after his sore knee gave out during a bye week practice, resulting in a torn ACL requiring surgery.^[63]

Anticipation for the game was high in Lincoln with high demand for tickets and accommodations; and the game brought celebrities including USC fans Will Ferrell (also an alumnus) and Keanu Reeves, Nebraska fans Larry the Cable Guy, Justice Clarence Thomas, Rush Limbaugh, and Ward Connerly, past Husker Heisman-winner Mike Rozier, Trojan Heisman-winner Marcus Allen and star Trojan safety Ronnie Lott were on hand for the game.^[64][65][66] The morning recording of College GameDay attracted 13,293 fans, second to the all-time record of 15,808 set by Nebraska in 2001.^[67] With 84,959 in attendance, Nebraska recorded its NCAA-record 284th consecutive home sellout dating back to 1962.^[59] The game fell on Pete Carroll's 56th birthday.

USC dominated the game 49–31, in a game that was not as close as the final score indicated: the Trojans led 42–10 going into the fourth quarter, with Nebraska scoring two touchdowns in the final five minutes during garbage time.^[68] The Trojans dominated on the ground, out-gaining Nebraska 313–31 in rushing yards and averaged 8.2 yards per carry: the most ever against a Nebraska team.^[69] Stafon Johnson led the USC running back corp with a career-best 144 yards in 11 carries with one touchdown; also with major contributions were C.J. Gable (69 yards in four carries, including a 40 yard run), Washington (43 yards in 12 carries with two touchdowns), and another versatile performance by fullback Stanley Havili (52 rushing yards in 2 rushes with one touchdown, three passes for 22 yards with one touchdown). The Trojans passing game again did not find a rhythm, with several dropped passes, but the defense was able to frustrate the Husker offense for most of the game and cause to pivotal 3rd quarter interceptions.^[70]

The Trojans did not escape injuries, as linebacker Clay Matthews, substituting for the recovering Brian Cushing, broke his thumb, causing Cushing to enter the game as his replacement. The Trojans also suffered two injuries on kick returns: fullback Alfred Rowe suffered a mild concussion, and there was a moment of worry when returner Vincent Joseph, after being tackled and fumbling the ball, lay on the turf for over 10 minutes before being removed by stretcher with a bruised larynx and a neck sprain, but no serious injuries.^[71] Linebacker Rey Maualuga was flagged during a field goal attempt for the rarely called penalty of "disconcerting", which is given for "words or signals that disconcert opponents when they are preparing to put the ball in play".^[72]

After losing some first place votes in the polls during the bye week, USC's performance regained six after their performance against the Huskers in a hostile environment.^[73] Receiving particular attention was the Trojans offensive line, as well as the continued poise and ability of freshman center O'Dowd.^[74][75][76]

Washington State (September 22)

USC opened Pac-10 conference play by hosting the Washington State Cougars. Entering the game, Trojans quarterback John David Booty and his receivering corp remained unproven after an uninspired performance against Idaho and a run-dominated game against Nebraska. Hoping to take advantage, Washington State elected to go into the game using a man-to-man pass coverage to allow more focus on stopping the Trojans running game.^[77] The Cougars had given the then-#3 Trojans a scare in their 2006 meeting, with the game coming down to the final seconds.^[78]

In the end, USC routed the Cougars 47–14, with a primarily aerial attack. Booty reestablished his presence, completing 28 of 35 passes for 279 yards and four touchdowns before leaving the game early in the fourth quarter. Tight end Fred Davis had a career night with nine receptions for 124 yards and two touchdowns.^[79] Davis' performance marked the most yards receiving ever in a game by a Trojans tight end.^[80] The Trojans first offensive drive set the tone with thirteen plays, 83 yards and a touchdown on fourth down; mostly coming from the air.^[81] Receivers Patrick Turner and Vidal Hazelton were able to find a groove and make plays after sputtering against Nebraska. In the rushing game, Chauncey Washington started and rushed for 84 of USC's 207 yards. Stafon Johnson, who led the Trojans ground game against Nebraska, had nine carries and finished with 48 yards. Joe McKnight also got his first extended work and gained 48 yards in seven carries. USC built a 27–7 halftime lead and then scored on its first three possessions in the second half.^[82]

Junior cornerback Cary Harris dislocated his right shoulder during the game and was replaced by Shareece Wright. Linebacker Brian Cushing reinjured the ankle he sprained in the opener against Idaho. Sixth-year senior running back Hershel Dennis played for the first time since the 2004 season during the fourth quarter, gaining 14 yards in four carries; he had sat out the two previous seasons due to injury.^[83]

The victory added to the Trojans domination of the series, 55–8–4; as well as extending the record of top-ranked USC teams against the Cougars to 5–0.^[84] The game marked the first time it had ever rained during a USC game in September, as a result the crowd totaled 86,876, the first time in 16 home games that the Trojans failed to draw at least 90,000.^[83] USC extended its home winning streak to 35 games.^[79]

at Washington (September 29)

The Trojans went on their first Pac-10 road game of the season, visiting the Washington Huskies, under coach Tyrone Willingham, at Husky Stadium in Seattle, Washington. In 2006, the unranked Huskies gave #3 USC a scare: The Isaiah Stanback-led Huskies drove to the USC 15 but were unable to get off a play before the final two seconds ticked off the clock, preserving a 26–20 USC victory.^[85] The Huskies entered the game 0–6 when facing a number-one ranked USC team.^[86] Going into the 2007 contest, Carroll expressed concern about containing the Huskies redshirt freshman quarterback Jake Locker, a dual-threat quarterback who led his team in passing and rushing.^[87] The Huskies announced prior to the game that they would be wearing throwback uniforms: instead of their standard purple and gold, the Huskies wore dark blue and gold jerseys with plain, gold helmets; replicas of the 1960 team which beat No. 1 Minnesota in the Rose Bowl, still the only time Washington has beaten a top-ranked opponent.^[88]

In a day where half of the week's top-10 teams were defeated, USC escaped becoming the sixth in a messy, mistake-prone 27–24 victory in a wet, windy game in Seattle. Although USC had a 460–190 edge in total yards, their errors helped the Huskies significantly: they committed three turnovers and had 16 penalties, their most in more than two seasons, for 161 yards, as well as had a missed a field goal and blocked punt.^[88] A disappointed Pete Carroll noted "We just couldn't do more things wrong in the game [. . .] I thought Washington was there for it. They were there to take it. All they needed was one more chance."^[89]

USC quarterback John David Booty completed 20 of 37 passes for 236 yards and a touchdown but had two interceptions, one of which led to a 54 return for a touchdown tying the game at 14–14 in the second quarter. The Huskies gained momentum early in the fourth quarter when they came to within 24–17 and forced USC to punt; however, on the return, Terrell Thomas stripped the ball from Anthony Russo for a fumble and recovered at the Huskies' 43-yard-line, setting up David Buehler's 33-yard field goal with 3:01 remaining. The Huskies did not give up, and blocked a USC punt with 1:15 left and scored on quarterback Jake Locker's one-yard run to pull to within three with 34 seconds left. On the ensueing onside kick, Thomas was able to recover the ball for USC, ending the game.^[89]

Washington freshman quarterback Locker displayed the dual passing/running threat Carroll had expressed concern about, but also showed his youth with erratic passing, finishing 12-for-27 with 83 yards passing and one interception, plus another 50 yards on 16 carries with two touchdowns. USC did have positive showings in the running game, with Stafon Johnson running for 122 yards and a touchdown and Chauncey Washington also adding 106 yards and a score.^[88] In the end, Carroll and the Trojans described the game as less a victory than an escape, a game where USC's raw athleticism took advantage of Washington's youth.^[90]

The Trojans suffered numerous injuries during the game: starting freshman center Kristofer O'Dowd hurt his kneecap and guard Chilo Rachal sprained his knee on the same play in the first quarter; they were replaced by senior center Matt Spanos, who had just been cleared for play after tearing a tricep before the season, and reserve guard Alatini Malu. Starting cornerback Shareece Wright, in his first start after replacing the injured Cary Harris, sustained a pulled hamstring muscle and was replaced by Mozique McCurtis. Tailback Stafon Johnson suffered a foot injury and fellow tailback C.J. Gable dressed but did not play because of a groin injury suffered just before the trip to Washington.^[91]

The game drew comparisons to USC's 33–31 loss to Oregon State the previous season.^[92]Cite error: The <ref> tag name cannot be a simple integer (see the help page). As a result of the close finish, USC lost the #1 ranking in the AP Poll, falling to #2 with 1,591 points and 32 first-place votes to LSU's 1,593 points and 33 first-place votes; however the Trojans remained #1 in the Coaches Poll, keeping a more substantial lead: 1,483 points and 45 first-place votes to LSU's 1,454 points and 14 first-place votes.^[93]

Stanford (October 6)

USC continued Pac-10 play by hosting the struggling Stanford Cardinal, under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh. In a major upset, USC stumbled at home to the 41-point underdog, losing 23–24.

Harbaugh had made headlines in the off-season by claiming the 2007 would be Carroll's last year with USC before departing to the NFL, drawing a terse rebuke from Carroll; Harbaugh would later call the 2007 Trojans one of the best teams in history at the Pac-10 Media Day, reiterating the position in the week before their game.^[94] The two kept in cordial phone contact, with Carroll making light of Harbaugh's comments several times during the season.^[95]

The Stanford starting quarterback, redshirt senior T. C. Ostrander, suffered a seizure on the afternoon of September 30, just a day after their game against Arizona State; he was released from Stanford Hospital after a few hours, but as a precautionary measure he was held out of the game against USC. The starting quarterback position fell to Tavita Pritchard, a redshirt sophomore with three passes in his college career.^[96] The Cardinal were also without two other key starters: defensive lineman Ekom Udofia (ankle) and offensive lineman Allen Smith (knee).^[97] On October 3rd it was announced that USC running back C.J. Gable, who was averaging a team-best 11 yards a carry, would undergo season-ending abdominal surgery a to correct a nagging sports hernia that had limited his ability since the previous season; because he had only played in the first three games, he would seek a medical redshirt season.^[98] Gable's fellow running back, Stafon Johnson, was also held out of the game due to a foot bruise suffered the previous week.^[95]

Stanford was the last team to beat USC at the Coliseum, doing so on September 29, 2001 under Ty Willingham (now the coach of Washington) against then-first year coach Pete Carroll.^[94] By game week, the line for the game favored the Trojans by 39.5 points, and reached 41 points by gametime.^[99][100] The loss ended multiple USC streaks, including a five game win streak against Stanford and a 35 game home winning streak.^[101] For sportsbooks, the loss to a 41-point underdog marked the biggest upset in their history.^[102][103]

There were a few positive efforts for the Trojans: Tight end Fred Davis caught five passes for a career-best 152 yards, including a 63-yard touchdown; and nose tackle Sedrick Ellis had three sacks. However, there were many more errors and substandard performances: quarterback John David Booty, who broke a bone in the middle finger of his throwing hand in the first half, had four passes intercepted in the second half. The offensive line had been suffering since losing two starters in one play during the previous week's game at Washington, but the effect was severe against the Cardinal; the offensive line gave up four sacks, one more than the Trojans had surrendered all season, and USC gained only 95 yards rushing. Key receiver Patrick Turner dropped several passes, the defense gave up 17 points in the fourth quarter and USC had an extra-point attempt blocked, a point which became a crucial difference.^[104] Like their previous game against Washington, USC out-gained Stanford by 224 yards (459 to 235) but made many crucial turnovers and penalties.^[102] In the press conference following the game, Coach Carroll summarized his concerns: "It's real clear that we have fallen out of line with our philosophy that has guided this program for years; we're turning the ball over too much."^[104]

Opinions in the sports press ranged from proclaiming the end of the USC's dynasty of dominance in college football to calling the loss a major, but not fatal set-back to any hopes for a Trojan run at the national championship.^{[105][103][106]} The Trojans fell to #10 in the AP Poll; however, USC only fell to #7 in both the Coaches Poll and Harris Poll, both of which are the human component for determining who the BCS choses for the National Championship Game.^[107][108] As a result, USC remained in outside title contention with upcoming games against consensus-#2 California and top-10 Oregon.^[109][103]

In an interview the following month, Carroll assessed the mistakes that led to the loss as his own:

We really blew it against Stanford. We screwed it up because we played a guy that was hurt. I made a mistake on that. That was me. ... If anything really was a factor, it was my cockiness that there was no way we could lose a game. It didn't matter -- we could keep running our offense, keep working on stuff, and they would never beat us. ... Broken hand? What was I thinking? I'm the one that screwed it up. He's a warrior. He's the one telling me "I can play." That's what he should be telling me. ... I missed a big one. It cost us a game that really cost us the flavor of this season. We've been tainted ever since, for obvious reasons. We gave away a game to a team that's won two or three games. Amazing. But it's awesome for football, it's awesome for Stanford and all that. Great for those guys. Sucks to be us in that regard. We screwed it up.^[110]

Arizona (October 13)

After the previous week's upset loss to Stanford, the Trojans hosted the Arizona Wildcats, led by head coach Mike Stoops, aiming to correct mistakes and demonstrate that they were still in contention for the Pac-10 title, as well as remained an outside candidate for the national title game.^[111][112] Matters were complicated when it was announced that starting quarterback John David Booty would not start due to a broken middle finger on his throwing hand, suffered during the previous week's loss. As a result, redshirt sophomore Mark Sanchez made his first start for the Trojans, having only played previously during garbage time.^[113] The Trojans also remained without offensive linemen Chilo Rachal and Kris O'Dowd, as well as leading rusher Stafon Johnson who remained idle for a second week after bruising his left foot during the game against Washington.^[111] The Trojans entered the game a 21-point favorite.^[114]

The Trojans again showed serious inconsistency for most of the game before coming alive in the 4th quarter and pulling away to a 20–13 victory. USC started out well, going ahead 10–0 in the second quarter after running back Chauncey Washington's 18-yard touchdown run and David Buehler's 27-yard field goal. However the offense began to sputter: the Trojans amassed only 12 total yards in the 2nd quarter and 50 in the 3rd while Sanchez proceeded to throw two interceptions in the 2nd quarter that allowed Arizona to tie the game going into halftime. The Wildcats were able to kick another field goal early in the 3rd quarter to go up 13–10, raising concerns that USC was going to be upset for the second consecutive week. The momentum of the game quickly changed in the 4th quarter after freshman running back Joe McKnight, touted as the next great Trojan tailback but yet to meet expectations, made a 45-yard punt return that Sanchez followed up on the next play with a 25-yard touchdown pass to tight end Fred Davis. After a defensive stop, Arizona punter Keenyn Crier kicked an 83-yard punt to the Trojan one-yard line. The Trojans were able to push forward with fullback Stanley Havili before McKnight again made a big play, running 59-yards and setting up what would be a Trojan field goal. The USC defense was then able to force an Arizone turn-over on downs to preserve the victory.^[115][114]

The injuries that had plagued USC throughout the season continued as All-American tackle Sam Baker left the game because of a hamstring strain and freshman guard Zack Heberer, already substituting for an injured Chilo Rachal suffered a shoulder bruise. On the defense, linebacker Rey Maualuga suffered a hip injury and safety Kevin Ellison broke his nose.^[116]

In light of the Trojans close victory, USC dropped in both major polls: falling to #13 in the AP Poll and #9 in the Coaches Poll, tied with previously #2 California, which had just lost an upset to Oregon State.^[117] The Trojans debuted at #14 in the Bowl Championship Series.^[118]

at Notre Dame (October 20)

USC visited inter-sectional rival Notre Dame for their 79th annual game for possession of the Jeweled Shillelagh. Pre-season demand for tickets were the some of the highest in Notre Dame history as USC made its first visit back to Notre Dame Stadium since the notable 2005 "Bush Push" game; demand remained high although, going into the season, the Fighting Irish were unranked.^[56][119]

Notre Dame had the worst start to their season in program history, opening 0-5 (the previous record was 0-3) and headed into their game with USC at 1-6.^[120] With significant problems at most positions, Coach Weis made several changes at quarterback: Starting the opener with sophomore Demetrius Jones, he chose to start heralded freshman Jimmy Clausen for games two through seven; during which time Jones transferred from the program.^[121] After Clausen also showed trouble at the position, Weis elected to go with junior Evan Sharpley as the starter for the USC game; Sharpley had backed up Brady Quinn the previous season.^[122] In response to controversy over the length of the grass in Notre Dame Stadium during the 2005 game, where USC kickoff returner Desmond Reed suffered torn right knee ligaments and nerve damage while trying to turn on the field, the Fighting Irish cut the grass significantly shorter.^[123] Notre Dame entered the game ranked last in total offense (190.9 yards a game) and rushing (32.1 yards a game), and next to last in scoring (11.4 points); their offensive line had given up 34 sacks.^[124]

With starting quarterback John David Booty still recovering from a broken finger on his throwing hand, USC elected to start Mark Sanchez for the second straight week. On the Thursday night before the game, the Trojans charter flight experienced severe turbulence on approach to South Bend Regional Airport during a lightning storm; their aircraft dropped and threw several passengers (players, coaches and their spouses) from their seats and hit their heads on the ceiling during an initial approach that was aborted before the plane circled and landed safely.^[125]

Breaking with tradition, the Fighting Irish announced in June that they would be wearing their alternative green jerseys instead of blue against USC; Notre Dame Coach Charlie Weis noted that it was in honor of the 1977 Irish team that switched to green jerseys before defeating the Trojans en route to a national championship (Weis was a student at Notre Dame at the time).^[126] Previously, the Irish did not let the public know when they will be wearing their green jerseys.

The Trojans dominated the game, shutting out Notre Dame 38–0, which was USC's largest margin of victory in the series. Quarterback Mark Sanchez made significant improvements over the previous week, completing 21 of 38 passes for 235 yards and four touchdowns and no interceptions. Tight end Fred Davis made a one-handed touchdown catch in the first quarter, wide receiver Vidal Hazelton made a 48-yard highlight touchdown run after evading several Irish defenders, and freshman running back Joe McKnight had another significant play on a 51-yard fourth-quarter run for his first touchdown. The USC defense stifled the Irish offense: allowing only 165 yards to the Trojans' 462 yards, making five sacks, and keeping the Irish from rushing for a first down until the fourth quarter. There were several special teams miscues: The Irish blocked a USC punt, the Trojans blocked a 40-yard field-goal and the Irish had a fumbled punt return recovered by USC. The Trojans had several key players return from injuries and make significant contributions, including linebacker Brian Cushing and running back Stafon Johnson.^{[127][128][129]}

After two weeks of moving down in the rankings, the Trojans moved up to #8 in the Coaches Poll, #9 in the AP Poll (tied with Florida) and #12 in the BCS standings.^{[130][131][118]}

at Oregon (October 27)

With the Ducks as 3-point favorites, the Trojans entered a Pac-10 game as underdogs for the first time since November 17, 2001; the game was the first between top-10 teams in the 41-year history of Oregon's Autzen Stadium.^[132] The match-up was framed as a battle between Oregon's highly productive offense and USC's defense.^[133]

The Trojans were affected by the massive wildfires affecting Southern California that week: air quality during outdoor practices in Los Angeles dropped significantly, and Trojans quarterback Mark Sanchez' father, a fire captain with the Orange County Fire Authority, was on the front line fighting the blazes.^[134] With John David Booty still recovering from a broken finger, Sanchez was given the start for the third week in a row. The Trojans were also set to return from injury all-American offensive tackle Sam Baker and guard Chilo Rachal.^[135] Despite having won the previous three contests, the Trojans noted concerns about playing in the famously loud and raucous Autzen Stadium.^[136]

Before a stadium-record crowd of 59,277, the Ducks defeated the Trojans 24–17 in a game decided in the final seconds.^[137] The Trojans made key mistakes and did not exploit several opportunities against the Ducks: After Oregon fumbled the opening kickoff, USC failed to score after the Ducks stopped running back Joe McKnight on a fourth-and-one play at the Oregon 12-yard line. Later in the first quarter, an apparent 65-yard touchdown run by McKnight was nullified by a holding penalty away from the play. The Trojans trailed 10–3 going into halftime, but were able to tie the game in the third quarter on a Sanchez to Patrick Turner touchdown pass. However, on the next possession, fullback Stanley Havili fumbled the ball and Oregon recovered on the USC 16-yard-line, leading to an Oregon touchdown. On USC's next series, Sanchez threw an interception On the Trojans' next series, Oregon safety Matthew Harper intercepted a pass and returned it 27 yards to the Oregon 42. The Ducks scored again, as running back Jonathan Stewart scored his second touchdown, giving the Ducks a 24–10 lead with 11:39 left. The Trojans rallied, with Sanchez leading an 85-yard, five-play drive that he capped with a 14-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver David Ausberry. The USC defense forced an Oregon three-and-out and the Trojans starting at their 17, the Trojans advanced to Oregon's 33 with 26 seconds left. However, on 2nd down, Sanchez misread and threw his second interception of the game to Harper with 11 seconds left in the game.^[138] After taking a knee to run out the clock on the first down, USC used their final timeout to stop the clock. Unaware of the timeout, Oregon fans stormed the field before the game officially finished, and after being cleared away the Ducks took a second knee and ran out the clock, sealing the victory.^[137]

The Trojans defense did slow down the Oregon offense, keeping them 212 yards below their season average, allowing the USC offense to out-gain the Ducks, 378 yards to 339.^[139] The Ducks senior quarterback Dennis Dixon ran for 76 yards and a touchdown in 17 carries and completed 16 of 25 passes for 157 yards without an interception. However, the Oregon defense ultimately won the game for the Ducks. Sanchez threw for 277 yards and two touchdown, but also had the two interceptions including the game-ender.^[138] USC Offensive Coordinator Steve Sarkisian's decisions on several key plays was called into question by fans in the week following the game.^[140] Eugene's newspaper, The Register-Guard, recorded the crowd noise at 127.2 decibels, making it the loudest crowd for a college football game; 1.2 decibels louder than the 126 decibels made by 77,381 Clemson fans during a game in 2005.^[141]

The game was viewed as marking Oregon's rise to a national title contender and a break in USC's dominance of the Pac-10 conference.^{[139][142][143][144]} The game also marked the first season since 2002 that the Trojans were going into November no longer considered a national title contender.^[139] Despite losing the game, the Trojans were still viewed as a legitimate threat in the conference and were projected as a potential at-large team for the BCS bowl games.^{[139] [143][145]}

The Trojans fell to #13 in the AP Poll, #15 in the Coaches Poll, and #19 in the BCS standings.^{[146][147][148]}

Oregon State (November 3)

The Trojans celebrated homecoming by hosting the Oregon State Beavers, coached by Mike Riley. In 2006, the unranked Beavers stunned the #3 Trojans in a 33–31 upset in Corvallis.^[149] The Beavers have not won at USC since 1960.^[150]

Oregon State entered the game with the nation's best rushing defense, allowing only 54.5 yards rushing a game while also recording a nation-leading 34 sacks. The Beaver defense ranked 13th nationally in total defense, surrendering 299.9 yards a game. Trojans quarterback John David Booty returned from injury to start; offensive lineman Sam Baker remained out after re-injuring a hamstring against the Ducks. Oregon State star running back Yvenson Bernard was initially expected to play despite sprained shoulder, but did not.^[150] Former USC linebacker Richard Wood, who was chosen for the College Football Hall of Fame, was honored at halftime.^[151]

In a strong defensive performance, the Trojans defeated the Beavers 24–3. The USC defense made nine sacks and intercepted a pass to limit Oregon State to 176 total yards and a field goal off of a Trojan fumble in the USC red zone. True-freshman Everson Griffen had 3 1/2 sacks, safety Kevin Ellison added two, end Lawrence Jackson had 1 1/2 and nose tackle Sedrick Ellis and linebacker Brian Cushing had one each; cornerback Terrell Thomas made the interception. The Trojans offense had its second lowest total of the season, gaining 287 yards, but was able to rush for 100 yards against the Beavers tight rush defense, led by Chauncey Washington who gained gained 60 yards in 12 carries. Booty, returning from injury, could not find his rhythm but still completed 19 of 33 passes for 157 yards without an interception; the Trojans converted only five of 16 third downs. Both teams missed field goals in the first quarter, then exchanged field goals going into the second quarter. The Trojans then scored 21 unanswered points in less than eight minutes to close the half. Neither team scored in the second half. USC running back Stafon Johnson was allowed to play a few downs but was kept out for most of the game to allow his foot to heal fully.^{[152][153][154]}

The Trojans rose slightly in the polls to #12 in the AP Poll, #15 in the Coaches Poll, and #17 in the BCS standings.^{[155][156][157]} The 2007 Holiday Bowl was being mentioned as a possible destination for the Trojans. Holiday Bowl executive director Bruce Binkowski said they would be very interested in pitting the Trojans against the Texas Longhorns. The two teams last met in the 2006 Rose Bowl.^[158]

at California (November 10)

In the pre-season, this game was named as one of the candidates for the 10 most important games of 2007, with the Trojans national title hopes hinging on proving themselves against a veteran team led by head coach Jeff Tedford in California Memorial Stadium.^[55][159] Prior to the season, Cal star receiver DeSean Jackson, an early Heisman Trophy candidate, called out USC cornerback Terrell Thomas in ESPN The Magazine, stating that he would best the cornerback who contributed to limiting him to two catches in the 2006 match-up.^[29] After USC's loss to the Cardinal, the game remained described as the Pac-10 game of the year; however, after Cal's mid-season losses to Oregon State and UCLA as well as USC's loss to Oregon, the game took on less importance.^{[42][160][161]}

On a rain-soaked evening in Strawberry Canyon, the Trojans gained a 24–17 victory over the #24 Golden Bears behind a career-best effort by running back Chauncey Washington. After seeing his early success against the Cal defense, USC began handing the ball almost exclusively to Washington who ran for 220 yards on 29 rushes. Due to the rain and Washington's success on the ground, Booty only attempted 20 passes for 129 yards in 11 completions with one touchdown and no interceptions; the Trojans offensive line did not give up a sack.^[162] USC returner Ronald Johnson returned four kicks for 102 yards, including one for 41 yards and another for 35, giving USC favorable field position.^[163] Cal running back Justin Forsett had an effective night, running for 164 yards in 31 carries. However, the Trojans defense had another solid effort, holding Cal to 14 points below its scoring average and forcing quarterback Nate Longshore into two interceptions and a sack.^[162] Cal's one-time Heisman Trophy candidate, wide receiver DeSean Jackson, was limited to 5 receptions for 64 yards and was kept from returning any kicks.^[164]

The game turned to the Trojans favor during the 4th quarter, when the Trojans put together a 10-play, 96-yard drive behind Washington and capped by a 3-yard touchdown run by Stafon Johnson.^[165] Cal received the ball back with 7:38 left, but the Trojans were able to force turnovers in the Bear's subsequent two drives; after Lawrence Jackson recovered a fumbled snap on the first drive, cornerback Terrell Thomas intercepted a Longshore pass at the USC 17 with 2:47 to play to seal the victory.^[166] As part of its Hall of Fame weekend, Cal wore throwback jerseys based on its 1975 team in honor of All-American quarterback Joe Roth; it was the third team to wear throwback jerseys in their game against the Trojans.^[163] Linebacker Keith Rivers suffered a high ankle sprain.^[162]

After the victory and the subsequent bye week, the Trojans again rose slightly in the polls to #11 in the AP Poll, #11 in the BCS standings, and #12 in the Coaches Poll.^{[167][168][169]}

at Arizona State (November 22)

In the pre-season, this game against veteran head coach Dennis Erickson's first squad at ASU was identified as a potential trap game for the Trojans.^[45] With #2 Oregon's loss during the bye week, Arizona State rose to #9 in the polls and the top of the Pac-10 standings while USC remained in contention for at least a share of the Pacific 10 title if they could win out.^[170]

Scheduled for prime time television on Thanksgiving Day, it was the only major college game scheduled on the holiday.^[171] It was Arizona State's first Thanksgiving Day game, and USC's 20th, though its first since 1938.^[172] The game attracted a number of celebrities, including former USC Heisman-winners Marcus Allen and Matt Leinart, who was joined by Arizona Cardinals teammate Larry Fitzgerald, Heisman-winner Gino Torretta, Bob Davie and Charles Barkley; it also included a halftime performance by Little Richard.^[172]

Eleven years removed from their last Rose Bowl berth, Arizona State had made a quick turn-around under Erickson, returning to national prominence with a 9-1 record.^[173] Using a NFL-style offense under junior quarterback Rudy Carpenter, the Sun Devils put extra pressure on their offensive line, resulting in 43 sacks, the most in the Pac-10 Conference and second most in the nation. In order to relieve Carpenter, who had suffered injuries over the season in his throwing hand, Arizona State planned to also work in the running game behind Keegan Herring and Dimitri Nance. USC entered the game ranked first in the Pac-10 and third nationally in defense, giving up 267.9 yards per game.^[174] The Sun Devils had trailed in every Pacific 10 Conference game in the season.^[171]

Two days later Oregon lost to UCLA, leaving the Trojans in a tie for first place in the Pac-10 standings with Arizona State (winning the tiebreaker).^[175] USC's strong victory, along with several upsets during the week, led the Trojans to rise to #8 in the AP Poll, #8 in the BCS standings, and #9 in the Coaches Poll.^{[176][177][178]}

UCLA (December 1)

In the 2006 season, UCLA's 13-9 upset of the Trojans ended hopes for reaching the National Championship.^[159] With both teams ranked going into the season (USC first, UCLA fourteenth in the AP Poll), there was buzz in Los Angeles that both teams might reach their December 1st game undefeated.^[179] UCLA made it as high as 11th in both polls before suffering a stunning 44-7 upset loss at unranked Utah in week 3 that knocked them out of the top-25.^[180]

References

External links

• USC Athletic Department's official site
• USCRipsIt.com: Official website of USC Trojan football.
• WeAreSC.com: USC Trojans Football, Basketball, and Recruiting.