T. HELTON, N.CALLAWAY NAMED USC ASST FOOTBALL COACHES

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January 4, 2016

31 July 2015: USC Helmets and Jerseys on display at Pac-12 Media Day 2015 (Photo By Jevone Moore/full Image 360)

–TYSON HELTON, NEIL CALLAWAY NAMED USC ASSISTANT FOOTBALL COACHES

LOS ANGELES—Tyson Helton and Neil Callaway, assistant coaches on a record-setting Western Kentucky offense who between them have more than 50 years of coaching experience, have been named assistants at USC, Trojan head coach Clay Helton announced today (Jan. 4).

Tyson Helton, who was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Western Kentucky the past 2 years (2014-15), will coach USC’s running backs and be the pass game coordinator. Callaway will be USC’s offensive line coach, the same position he handled with the Hilltoppers the last 3 seasons (2013-15).

The 38-year-old Tyson Helton, Clay’s younger brother, has been a coach for 16 years, while Callaway, 60, has coached for 37 years, including a stint as the head coach at Alabama Birmingham and stops as the offensive line coach with 3 Southeastern Conference teams.

“We are very excited to welcome Tyson and Neil to the Trojan Family,” said Clay Helton. “Their experience and knowledge will be a huge benefit to our players as well as our football program. Both have been highly successful coordinators and we look forward to the fresh energy and ideas they will bring. I have watched them produce a pair of Top 10 offenses that averaged more than 44 points a game each of the past 2 years. We look forward to them helping bring the same explosiveness to our offense at USC.”

With Tyson Helton and Callaway on staff, Western Kentucky’s offense was in the national Top 10 this year in passing efficiency (first at 177.4), scoring (third at 44.3), passing (fourth at 372.2), first downs (eighth at 349) and total yards (ninth at 526.4). The Conference USA champions went 12-2 in 2015 (tying a school wins record) and are ranked 25th by AP after posting a victory in the Miami Beach Bowl. In 2014, the Hilltoppers became the first NCAA program with a 4,500-yard passer and 1,500-yard rusher while winning the Bahamas Bowl to finish 8-4. That season, they were second nationally in passing, fourth in total offense and sixth in scoring offense and first downs. WKU set the school points record each of the past 2 years.

Western Kentucky broke more than two dozen school offensive records under Helton. He coached quarterback Brandon Doughty to back-to-back Conference USA MVP honors as he threw 97 touchdown passes the past 2 years (the most in NCAA history in consecutive seasons). Doughty led the nation in 2015 in completion percentage (71.9%), passing TDs (48), passing yards (5,055) and points responsible for (304) while ranking second in passing efficiency (176.5). That came off a 2014 campaign in which he threw for national bests of 4,830 yards and 49 TDs while winning the Sammy Baugh Award from the Touchdown Club of Columbus as the nation’s top quarterback.

Hilltopper wide receiver Taywan Taylor ranked second in the nation in 2015 in receiving TDs (17) and was third in receiving yards (1,467), both school season records along with his 86 receptions. Fellow receiver Jared Dangerfield had 82 catches in 2015, second most in school history.

Helton came to Western Kentucky after spending 2013 as Cincinnati’s special teams coordinator and tight ends coach. Cincinnati set a school season total offense record (6,137 yards) as Helton coached tight end Blake Annen and kick returner Ralph David Abernathy IV to All-American Athletic Conference first team honors.

He spent the previous 6 seasons (2007-12) at Alabama Birmingham, the first 5 years as the quarterbacks coach (under Callaway) and then 2012 coaching the running backs and serving as the recruiting coordinator.

Under Helton’s guidance, Joe Webb developed into one of the most prolific quarterbacks in NCAA history. In 2009, when he finished sixth nationally in total offense and ninth in passing efficiency, Webb became the first player in NCAA history to pass for 2,000 yards and rush for 1,000 yards in consecutive seasons. The 2009 and 2010 Blazer offenses produced the two highest total offense yardage totals in UAB history, both topping 5,000 yards. Then in 2012, running back Darrin Reaves was an All-Conference USA first teamer as he ran for 1,037 yards and a school-record 13 scores.

Helton coached tight ends and special teams at Memphis for 3 years (2004-06). Tigers’ kicker Stephen Gostkowski, who established the school career scoring record, was Conference USA’s Special Teams Player of the Year in 2005 and played in the NFL.

Helton began his coaching career at Hawaii for 4 years (2000-03), the first year as a graduate assistant working with the special teams and the final 3 seasons as the special teams coach. In 2001, his first as a full-time coach, the Warriors led the nation in kickoff return yardage and broke the NCAA record for season kickoff return average. Return specialist Chad Owens set NCAA game records for most combined return yardage and most kickoff return yardage and tied an NCAA record with 2 scoring kick returns in a game.

Helton played quarterback at Houston (1996-99), where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business in 1999, after starring at Clements High in Sugar Land (Tex.). His father, Kim, was the head coach at Houston during Tyson’s tenure.

He was born on June 20, 1977. He and his wife, April, have 2 daughters, Shelby Grace, 12, and Presley, 10, and 6-year-old twin boys, Cole and Clay. Besides being Houston’s head coach (1993-99), his father, Kim, was an assistant in college (Florida, Miami and Alabama Birmingham), the NFL (Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Houston Oilers, Los Angeles Raiders, Washington Redskins) and CFL (Toronto Argonauts).

Under Callaway, Western Kentucky’s offensive line blocked for the school’s season passing and rushing record setters. In 2015, the line ranked 13^th nationally in sacks allowed (1.1) and lineman Forrest Lamp made the All-Conference USA first team.

Prior to arriving at Western Kentucky, Callaway was UAB’s head coach for 5 years (2007-11), going 18-42. His 2009 squad’s offense was seventh nationally in rushing, while the 2010 Blazers were in the national Top 30 in passing offense and total offense.

From 2001 to 2006, he was the offensive coordinator at Georgia as the Bulldogs posted 61 victories, a pair of SEC titles, 3 SEC East titles, 4 bowl wins and 4 Top 4 poll finishes. The 2002 Georgia squad led the SEC in scoring offense and passing efficiency, while the 2005 offense was second in scoring. Six of Callaway’s Bulldog offensive linemen earned All-SEC honors, including 2005 All-American Max Jean-Gilles.

Before Georgia, Callaway was the offensive line coach at Alabama, his alma mater, for 4 years (1997 to 2000), while also serving as the Crimson Tide’s offensive coordinator the final 3 seasons. Alabama won an SEC title during his time there.

He was the assistant head coach and offensive coordinator at Houston under Kim Helton for 4 seasons (1993-96). The Cougars’ offensive line allowed just 19.5 sacks per season during his Callaway’s tenure, including just 10 in 1996. Houston won the inaugural Conference USA championship in 1996.

Callaway was the offensive line coach at Auburn for 12 years (1981-92), helping the Tigers to 4 SEC championships. He coached 4 All-American first team linemen and 14 All-SEC players, including Chris Samuels, the No. 3 pick of the 2000 NFL Draft.

He began his coaching career as a part-time assistant coach at East Carolina in 1978 and 1979, then was a graduate assistant at Wyoming in 1980.

Callaway was a lineman and linebacker at Alabama (1974-77) under coach Paul “Bear” Bryant, winning 3 conference titles during his playing days and being named the team’s Most Outstanding Athlete in 1977. He received his bachelor’s degree from Alabama in 1978.

He prepped at Central High in Macon (Ga.). He was inducted into the Macon (Ga.) Sports Hall of Fame in 2006.

He was born on Nov. 15, 1955. He and his wife, Karen, have three children, Russ, Kate and Clay.

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East Wins Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl

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Jevone Moore

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January 3, 2016

Jan 3: Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl 2016 at StubHub Center in Carson, CA (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

East OLB Chase Pine delivering a big hit on West WR Kyeler Burke at The 5TH Annual SEMPER FIDELIS All-American Bowl 2016 at StubHub Center in Carson, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Carson, Ca – The East Defensive End Khalid Kareem #95 (Norte Dame Commit) was the game MVP with 2 fumble recovers for 92 yards and a touchdown (1-14, 1-78). The East All Stars defeated the West All Stars 28-13 in a action packed Semper Fidelis game to finish out their high school careers. This was the 5th Annual Semper Fidelis All American Bowl at StubHub Center. The East now has won three of the five Semper Fidelis All-American Bowl games.

Head Coach of East Kevin Crosby found a gem in running back Amir Rasul #34 (Florida State Commit) who had a nose for the endzone finding paydirt with 3 touchdowns. The ground game and Kareem fumbles were the game breakers for East. The leading rusher for East was Martell Pettaway #21 (West Virginia Commit) who broke a long 73 yard run to set up a score rushing 5 – 90 yards. The first quarter was filled with big plays from these amazing athletes allowing the cream to rise to the top.

UCLA Commit (4) Theo Howard breaking tackle of East Tru Wilson (26) during 2nd half at The 5TH Annual SEMPER FIDELIS All-American Bowl 2016 at StubHub Center in Carson, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The West squad had some big plays and held 10-7 lead in 2nd quarter with wide receiver Theo Howard #4 (UCLA Commit) pulled in 17 yard touchdown from Dillon Sterling-Cole #12 (Arizona State). The Pac-12 connection was perfect chemistry at 6:40 mark for the West. Howard lead the West with 5 catches 81 yards and will check into Dorms tomorrow to start the winter quarter at UCLA for coach Mora. All the West points came in the second quarter; two field goals behind the leg of Tucker McCann #6 (Missouri Commit) 33 yards, 40 yards.

East RB Amir Rasul pulling away on sweep and finished game with 3 touchdowns at The 5TH Annual SEMPER FIDELIS All-American Bowl 2016 at StubHub Center in Carson, CA. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The West was shut out in the second half from the scoreboard but as an offensive still had impressive performers. Running back D’Vaughn Pennamon #5 (Ole Miss Commit) rushed for 124 on 15 carries with great vision and patients behind his offensive line. Terry Wilson #3 (Oregon Commit ) one of three quarterbacks for West who had 157 all purpose yards (111 passing, 46 rushing).

East defense had a lot to be happy about, game MVP Kareem said, “It’s just an honor to be here,..It was a great experience to be around these Marines. They were getting on our butts every day about doing pushups, running, being disciplined. It was a great week.”

These great players will remember this week with the marines and new friends who they will compete against for the next few years on their new college teams at the next level. The Sempre Fi bowl gives these young men their first sense of even higher level competition.

To VIEW MORE GAME PHOTOS GO FULL IMAGE 360

Stanford Smelling Like Roses

By

Jevone Moore

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January 1, 2016

Iowa Hawkeyes wide receiver Jacob Hillyer (17) with a first quarter reception during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

College Football game action during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey breaking a way for big run during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Pasadena, Ca – At the Grand Daddy of them All, the 102nd Rose Bowl saw Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey put on a clinic. The Stanford Cardinals comes away smelling like roses in 45-16 victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes. McCaffrey ran away with the game offensive MVP and broke the all-purpose yards record set by Wisconsin’s Jared Abbrederis in 2012 with 368 all purpose yards of his own.

Today you just saw what an amazing player can do for a great team, even when you have the scouting report. You had to chuckle when it’s 3rd down and crowd is yelling, “Get #5” and defense still can’t stop him. Some fans who were stuck trying to get to their seats missed McCaffrey first touchdown on first play of the opening drive which was a 75 yard catch and run from quarterback Kevin Hogan. From that point on everybody had the sense ooh this game could get ugly. By the end of the quarter the Cardinals led 21-0 and the Hawkseyes were frustrated.

Iowa Hawkeyes defensive back Desmond King (14) on a kickoff return during the first quarter of the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Stanford coach David Shaw spoke about his best player in the country, “I think he was the best player in America before this game, so I think it’s just the icing on the cake for us.” The East Coast even had the opportunity to see McCaffrey greatness before bedtime. You could tell he was just a college kid having fun and said, “it’s so fun when a team can come together and gel as a unit to try to make plays.”

The Hawkeyes did show some fight in the second half putting their first points on the board a 31 yard field goal. The Iowa fans went crazy for those three points, it was loud too from at least 3/4 of 94,268 fans in attendance to the game. Before clocked ticked zero they had added 13 more points in fourth quarter all for pride.

Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback C.J. Beathard (16) loses his helmet during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

This Stanford team showed it belonged in top teams of college football by their all around dominating performance. The game will be a building block for Stanford going into the off season for the underclassman and yes McCaffrey will be back! The defense who held Iowa to a season low 48 yards rushing will also be back to brink havoc on the Pac-12.

Stanford Cardinal running back Christian McCaffrey (5) on first touchdown catch of the game during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey

Stanford Cardinal cornerback Quenton Meeks (24) with interception for touchdown in 1st qtr. during the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Stanford CB Quenton Meeks

Stanford Cardinal head coach David Shaw hosting the Championship trophy at the 102nd Rose Bowl Game Stanford Cardinals vs Iowa Hawkeyes 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Stanford coach Shaw

This Rose Bowl win now bring the Pac-12 bowl record this football season to 6-2, with Oregon and Arizona State left to play tomorrow.

Wisconsin bullies USC in National Funding Holiday Bowl

By

Carlos Gonzalez

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December 30, 2015

College Football game action during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Wisconsin Badgers safety Michael Caputo (7) with tight coverage on USC Trojans wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster (9) during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

San Diego, Ca – It wasn’t the start USC head coach Clay Helton wanted and it definitely wasn’t the ending he wanted either.

On a 4^th and 10 USC QB Kody Kessler throws an incomplete pass to Darreus Rogers, which would’ve been short of the 1^st down marker anyways.

“We were on two different pages,” said Rogers. “We forgot the down a distance and it was just a short route.”

Wisconsin Badgers quarterback Joel Stave (2) throwing a pass during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

And with the 3 seconds left all Wisconsin QB and offensive MVP Joel Stave had to do was take knee as the Badgers bullied the men of Troy in a 23-21 win in the National Funding Holiday Bowl.

A Kessler interception with less than two minutes to go a drive before, sums up USC’s struggle of a season.

After stepping in for Steve Sarkisian, the Trojans are 5-4 under newly appointed head coach Clay Helton.

After giving up 262 rushing yards in their Pac-12 championship game loss to Stanford earlier this month, Wisconsin rushed for 177 yards and proved that maybe the Pac-12 doesn’t have the physicality to keep with the smash mouth football teams in the big 10 and SEC.

USC Trojans running back Ronald Jones II (25) breaking the tackle of Wisconsin Badgers cornerback Darius Hillary (5)during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

On Saturday, Nebraska put on a clinic gashing UCLA on the ground rushing for 326 yards in their 37-29 Foster Farms Bowl victory.

USC found itself trailing 20-7 after Stave found Justin Davis completely open in the end zone for the 4-yard touchdown.

The Trojans struggled to give Kessler much time to throw the ball when he wasn’t getting sacked, as the No. 3 defense had no issues causing disarray. At one point, Wisconsin linebacker Jack Cichy took down Kessler 3 times in one series.

But with all that having transpired, USC still managed the grab a hold of the lead 21-20 with 10:19 left in the fourth quarter after Kessler was able to buy sometime to find Rogers for a 7-yard touchdown.

USC Trojans wide receiver Darreus Rogers (1) celebrates after a touchdown catch during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Badgers wouldn’t go away and two 17-yard completions by back up QB Bart Houston set up Wisconsin for a 29-yard go-ahead field goal and essentially the game winner.

Wisconsin held USC to 65 rushing yards and made life difficult for the young star Adoree’ Jackson and JuJu Smith-Schuster.

The loss to the Badgers snaps a 13 game win streak against Big 10 opponents for USC.

The victory gives Wisconsin QB Joel Stave 31 wins as a starter breaking the school record previously held by Brooks Bollinger

Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Edwards (53) & cornerback Sojourn Shelton (8) tackle USC Trojans running back Ronald Jones II (25) during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Pac-12 is 5-2 this year in Bowl games with three remaining. USC and UCLA are the two lone losses and have no more room to trend downwards, but coach Helton is happy with the talent surrounding his locker room.

“I think you look at a bunch of young kids and a few seniors who won a Pac-12 South championship,” he said. “Our future is bright.”

USC played 15 first-year freshmen this season and six have started. They used 26 true and redshirt freshmen this year.

In Kessler’s last game, he threw for 221 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception on 18 of 32 passing. He finishes his career at USC with 10,339 yards passing 88 touchdowns and 19 interceptions.

Obviously I wanted to win the game, but I was so proud of those guys, how hard they fought, the seniors and everybody,” said Kessler. “I left everything I had on that field.”

USC Trojans cornerback Adoree' Jackson (2) College Football game action during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — USC Trojans cornerback Adoree’ Jackson (2) College Football game action during the National Funding Holiday Bowl between the USC Trojans vs Wisconsin Badgers on Wednesday Dec 30th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

It wouldn’t be right to judge Helton on his turbulent start; he has yet to hire a staff. But it is fair to question whether his hiring was a make up for letting Ed Orgeron go.

One thing is for certain, Alabama is USC’s first game of next season and we know what we can expect from them.

Dr Pepper Most Inspirational Award

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Press Release

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December 28, 2015

SAN DIEGO – Dean Klaser, a senior from Eastlake High School in Chula Vista, has been selected from a pool of San Diego county student-athletes to receive the 2015 Dr Pepper Most Inspirational Player Award. Klaser, who plays on both offense and defense, will be presented with a $2,000 scholarship on the field at the National Funding Holiday Bowl on December 30^th.

The Dr Pepper Most Inspirational Player program aims to recognize a San Diego County high school football player “who, through their presence, actions and words of encouragement, serves as an inspirational example to their teammates.”

Klaser, who played both running back and defensive back for the Eastlake High School football team, was a lifelong football player who was being recruited by college scouts. In his junior year, Klaser ran for over 800 yards, caught three touchdown passes and defensively, was one of the top tacklers for Eastlake High School, a member of the Open Division.

At the end of last football season, Dean was diagnosed with a rare type of muscular cancer. He underwent emergency surgery, followed by nine months of chemotherapy. This season, although he was not able to rejoin the football team, Dean supported his teammates, attending practice and team functions. He has since been given a clean bill of health and continues to serve as a source of inspiration for his teammates and coaches, certainly deserving of the Dr Pepper Most Inspirational Player Award.

The Dr Pepper Most Inspirational Player is supported by 100.7 JackFM and the Kiwanis Club of San Diego.

# # # SanDiegoBowlGames.com # # #

Nebraska Leaps Doubters and Drops UCLA

By

Carlos Gonzalez

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December 27, 2015

Nebraska was fired up during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Devine Ozigbo (22) hurdling UCLA Bruins defensive back Marcus Rios (9) in the second half during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Santa Clara, CA – Just when it started to look like a 5 and 7 Nebraska team had no business taking part in a post-season Bowl game this year, the Cornhuskers scored 30 unanswered points to stun UCLA 37-29 in the 2015 Foster Farms Bowl at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.

Nebraska stuck to moving the ball on the ground mustering 326 rushing yards. Quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. rushed for 76 yards and one touchdown while throwing another on 12 of 19 passing for 174 yards.

“Football goes better when you can run the ball and physically impose your will on the other team,” said Nebraska head coach Mike Riley. “The game plan was running the football. It is what we thought we could and what we wanted to do. Our goal next year is to be in the top 3 in the country in running the ball.”

Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Devine Ozigbo (22) finding daylight during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Cornhuskers had three players with over 50 yards rushing and dominated the time of possession while holding the ball 38:15 compared to UCLA’s 21:45.

With 10:37 left in the third quarter, a one handed grab by Stanley Morgan Jr. gave Nebraska its first lead of the game at 27-21.

After a 20-yard field goal and a 3-yard touchdown run from Armstrong Jr., the Bruins quickly answered with a 9-yard touchdown reception from Jordan Payton to cut Nebraska’s lead 37-29 after a 2-point conversion.

UCLA Bruins quarterback Josh Rosen (3) rolling with the pocket during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Bruins had one last chance to tie the contest when it received the ball with 4:36, but a Josh Rosen interception on 4th and 10 from the Nebraska 32 kept UCLA from winnings its first Foster Farms Bowl.

“It’s a disappointing loss. Any time you lose its disappointing,” said UCLA head coach Jim Mora. “Congratulations to Nebraska and coach Riley. They play hard, play well, play physical and play the way they are supposed to play. We’ll take a hard look at ourselves and get better from it.”

UCLA Bruins running back Paul Perkins (24) on way to touchdown during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Bruins got off to a quick start offensively and it seemed like it was going to be their run game that would dictate the contest. A 32-yard run by Paul Perkins set up UCLA in Cornhusker territory. Perkins capped the 79-yard drive with a 1-yard score to put the Bruins up early 7-0.

UCLA took a 21-7 lead after a 26-yard touchdown catch by Nate Starks with 7:55 left in the first half.

Nebraska roared back to tie the game at 21 to go into the halftime after scores from Terrell Newby and Andy Janovich.

Nebraska Cornhuskers running back Imani Cross (32) during the Foster Farms Bowl between the UCLA Bruins and the Nebraska Cornhuskers on Saturday Dec 26th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

After a targeting penalty sent out Nebraska’s Nate Gerry with 39 seconds left in the first half, the momentum and energy turned the Cornhuskers direction heading into the locker room.

UCLA finishes the season 8-5 and hasn’t won a Bowl Game in California since 1986.

“For our returners its time to reflect on how we can get better as players and coaches,” said Mora. “We need to get bigger and stronger obviously”.

He Really Knows It All

By

Kurt Lykes

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December 24, 2015

“I also withheld rain from you when the harvest was still three months away. I sent rain on one town, but withheld it from another. One field had rain, another had noe and dried up.”

Amos 4:7

Many believe that there is no God, and that things just happen. Not true at all. Here we are reminded of God’s sovereignty.

He causes the sun to shine, and the rain to fall. Whenever it rains, we are reminded that God is still in control and ‘He knows’ exactly what we need.

‘He knows’ when to answer our prayers, and when to come through for His children. ‘He knows’ what we need and what we ‘don’t’ need.

‘He knows’ what to use as tools in our lives to bring our the best in us, and get us to the place of trusting in Him. ‘He knows’ …we don’t.

Our job is to trust Him, and believe that ALL things are working together for our good and for His glory. Hold on child of God.. ‘HE KNOWS’.

USC Basketball Get’s 100

By

Suga Brown-Faal

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December 23, 2015

Pac-12 Men's Basketball USC Trojans vs Yale Bulldogs first half game action at the Galen Center on Dec. 13th, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)

Los Angeles, Ca – To say USC won the game against Lafayette is a total understatement, because the Leopards never had a chance tonight with this final score … Trojans 100 Leopards 64, this is the Trojans 3^rd game this season they’ve scored 100 plus points!

USC’s fight song for the day could have been Welcome to the Jungle because they were the kings of the court. They might have came out initially in 2^nd gear the first few minute but it didn’t take long for them to shift that gear into overdrive to show Lafayette what PAC-12 ball looks like up close and in your face. At no time could the Leopards tie the score up let alone take the lead. The Trojans seem to be always have been putting on immense pressure at both ends of the court between the blocked shots and the 8 steals the Leopards couldn’t catch a break.

The Trojans pulled off this upset with only 3 of their normal 6 guard rotation. That did put some extra pressure on Jordan McLaughlin to have the entire 40 minutes, but he made it look effortless to the point of him breaking the school’s record for most assist in a game with a whopping 16. He also had decent 14 points tonight.

Katin Reinhart and Elijah Stewart seem to have been competing each other to see who could hit the most 3 points shots which had the putting up a combined point total of 53. I mustn’t fail to mention that the two forwards Chimezie Metu with 15 points and Nikola Jovanovic with 12 points won’t have any problem making the highlights reel with those NBA fashioned dunk shots that had the crowd going crazy.

Next stop for the Trojan is PAC-12 conference game against Washington State on New Years day..

Boise State thrash the record books in 55-7 victory over NIU

By

Carlos Gonzalez

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December 23, 2015

Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) find running lane in the first half during Poinsettia Bowl - Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Boise State Broncos quarterback Brett Rypien (4) back to pass in the second half during the Poinsettia Bowl - Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Boise State Broncos quarterback Brett Rypien (4) back to pass in the second half during the Poinsettia Bowl – Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

San Diego, Ca – The San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl saw many records being broken this year as Boise State handily defeated the University of Northern Illinois 55-7 Wednesday afternoon at Qualcomm Stadium.

With more than 30 student-athletes from Southern California returning home, the Broncos left their family members and the rest of the spectators with no doubt on who was the superior team.

“As a team, we didn’t use being in Southern California as motivation but I’m sure it was in the back of their (players) minds as individuals,” said head coach Bryan Harsin. “ When you play that’s exciting, when you go out and have the performance they did tonight its even more fun.”

Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) tip toe down the line in the first half game action during Poinsettia Bowl - Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — Boise State Broncos running back Jeremy McNichols (13) tip toe down the line in the first half game action during Poinsettia Bowl – Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

The Broncos rumbled out to a 21-point lead in the first quarter, as their three touchdowns were the most scored in a first quarter in Poinsettia bowl history.

RB Jeremy McNichols stole the show early with all three visits to the end zone coming from the 5 foot 9 sophomore.

Boise State wasted no time putting points on the board. After receiving the ball first, in less than a minute the Broncos went up 7-0 on a 29-yard burst up the middle from McNichols.

The three-play 75-yard drive was the fastest a team has ever scored in the San Diego Credit Union Poinsettia Bowl.

On NIU’s first possession of the game, what seemed to be a promising drive for the Huskies ended in a Ryan Graham fumble that was recovered by Boise State’s Tyler Gray on their own 33-yard line.

The Broncos quickly took advantage of the Huskies giveaway and capped a 67-yard drive with a 4-yard pass from Brett Rypian to McNichols for his second score.

The Boise State defense dominated the matchup up front constantly causing havoc having no issues getting to Graham.

The Huskies only managed to squeeze out 36-yards of offense in the first half as their only score of the contest was a 96-yard kick return by Agrego Turner also setting a record for the longest kick return for a touchdown in Poinsettia Bowl history.

Boise State took a 31-7 lead into the locker room with a 317-yard advantage over NIU and another record for most points scored in the first half by one team.

The script in the second half for both teams was not much different.

Boise State didn’t come out red hot like in the first half but by the end of the third quarter they tacked on 10 more points for a 41-7 score.

The 55 points scored by the Broncos set a new Poinsettia Bowl record and finished their night of wrecking the records books.

The Poinsettia Bowl Offensive & Defensive MVP Brett Rypien (4), Kamalei Correa (8) - Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News) — The Poinsettia Bowl Offensive & Defensive MVP Brett Rypien (4), Kamalei Correa (8) – Bosie State vs Northern Illinois Wednesday Dec 23rd, 2015. (Photo by Jevone Moore/fi360 News)

Rypian showed his poise, strong arm and the bright future he has ahead, he threw for 377 yards 3 touchdowns 1 interception on 29 of 39 passing and was awarded the offensive MVP of the match. McNichols ended the night with 3 total touchdowns (2 on the ground) 93 yards rushing on 19 carries.

The Broncos held NIU to 33 yards offensively while forcing 3 turnovers. They took down the opposing quarterback 5 times for a loss led by senior Kamelei Correa who contributed 2 of his own.

Boise State improves to an 11-5 record in College Bowl games and 8-5 in Bowl games not played on Saturday.

After tonight’s defeat the Huskies drop to 4-7 in major College Bowl games and remain without a victory in their third trip all time to the Poinsettia Bowl.

“It wasn’t a good performance by us. Boise is a great team and you have to give them a ton of credit,” said head coach Rod Carey. “We live one week lives in college football and this one is done with.”

Chargers Save The Best for Last

By

Jevone Moore

-

December 20, 2015

San Diego Chargers vs MIami Dolphins At Qualcomm stadium 12/20/15

San Diego, Ca – Winning cures a multiples of hurts, with San Diego defeating Miami 30-14. Running Back Danny Woodhead was a scoring machine with 4 touchdowns (3 Receiving, 1 Rushing) for the Chargers giving the fans a great show for what possibly could be their last at Qualcomm Stadium.

The Chargers defensive was able to shut down the running game and never let Dolphins offense get into any rhythm. Dolphins just couldn’t figure out how to stop the Chargers exotic blitz. They kept them out of the end zone till second half only allowing 14 points. The Chargers had not scored a touchdown for three weeks until today when quarterback Phillip Rivers connected on 20 yard pass to Woodhead for 0-6 1st quarter lead.

“Today effort was not the problem, it was the details lack of discipline…” Said Dolphins Interim Head Coach Dan Campbell about today’s loss. The Dolphins allowed Rivers to throw for 311 yards with 3 touchdowns. He hit 8 different receivers, with his main target being tight end Antonio Gates 6 catches for 88 yards.

Chargers reserve running back Donald Brown made the most of his 12 carries for 90 yards in relief of Melvin Gordon who left game knee injury. They backs combined for 140 net rushing yards with a rushing touchdown. The Chargers had not had a rushing touchdown since week one against Detroit.

Even with win today at Qualcomm it was still an uneasy feeling among most fans. You could see some fans who are not happy about the undecided decision. The NFL will have their next set of meetings to see who will get green light to relocate to Los Angeles, the pivotal vote is set for Jan. 12-13 in Houston.