USC Trojans
2000 overall record: 5-7
Conference record: 2-6 (t-8th)
Returning starters
Offense: 8
Defense: 6
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Sultan McCullough* (1,163 yds)
Passing: Carson Palmer* (2,914 yds)
Receiving: Kareem Kelly* (796 yds)
Tackles: Zeke Moreno (103)
Sacks: Ennis Davis (6)
Interceptions: Troy Polamalu*, DeShaen Hill* and Chris Cash* (2 each)
What's new
New head coach Pete Carroll also brings in seven new assistants -- including offensive coordinator Norm Chow. Even with eight returning starters, the offense is sure to look different with a new spread formation. Defensively, USC will switch to an attacking style with a 4-3 base. If nothing else, the Trojans should at least be fun to watch this fall.
Battling it out
With Faaesea Mailo sliding over to guard, USC will need to find two new starters at offensive tackle. Only Jacob Rogers, who missed spring drills after off-season shoulder surgery, has much experience at the position. Redshirt freshman Joe McGuire has good physical ability but was inconsistent in the spring. Eric Torres and Norm Katnik are also strong contenders.
Eye catcher: RB Malaefou MacKenzie
Though he is not likely to unseat Sultan McCullough, the senior has earned more playing time with his performance in Chow's offense thus far. He is a very versatile back and will have the opportunity to showcase his receiving and blocking skills, as well as his talents as a ball carrier.
Budding star: DE Lonnie Ford
Carroll might have been more impressed with Ford than any other player on the roster during spring drills, which is significant coming from a former NFL defensive coordinator. Ford seems to have found his niche with this defensive scheme, in which he is allowed more freedom to attack the backfield. He was a factor in every spring scrimmage and looks like an honors candidate heading into the fall.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
