Los Angeles, Ca – The late game even on the West Coast had sleep walkers watching the USC walk over Arkansas State 55-6. The USC Trojans scored two touchdowns every quarter tonight almost like they planned it that way. Heisman hopeful quarterback Cody Kessler was in mid season form finding 11 different receivers over the course of the game.
Darreus Rodgers was first receiver to catch a pass for this 2015 season with first down to move the chains on 15 yard reception. Then three plays later JuJu Smith-Schuster went the distance 61 yards for touchdown after hauling in short pass from Kessler. Arkansas State never had the lead the whole game and the hits just kept on coming. They did make USC throw ball after they stuffed up run earlier on, but in second half that extra size and depth was too much to handle. The Trojans finished with 189 yards on the ground and are still in search of that do it all back who can run down hill on student body right.
This season will be another year of the receivers with a west coast offense feel of short pass that act as runs to keep the chains moving. Kessler connected on four touchdowns on 19-26 passing, the offense had 509 yards of total offense. The line unfortunately gave up 5 sacks in game with this small front of Arkansas State finding the right gaps to shoot.
The defense was on the field tonight more than the quick strike offense by 23 plays and 11 minutes. That was a good thing because it allowed for a lot of young players to see time on both sides of the ball. The Trojans linebackers duo of Cameron Smith, Su’a Cravens were in top 3 of tackles in the game. Cravens also added a 32 yard interception that gave offense ball 1st and goal in third quarter that eventually lead to touchdown making score 35-6 in 3rd quarter. Safety Matt Lopez was led tackler with 4 solo, 3 assist for total of 7 with one being a tackle for a loss.
Freshman Iman Marshall made an impact in his first college game having 6 tackles and two break ups. Marshall after game was humble about his performance, “We have lot of good players…I’m just trying to learn and continue to work hard.” So looks like there will be another freshman making an immediate impact for this team.
The Trojans will host the Idaho Vandals next Saturday September 12th at 5pm PST. The Arkansas State Red Wolves will host the Missouri Tigers at 4pm EST.
Photos by Jordon Kelly
