Passion before dollars

USC's record setting quarterback, Matt Barkley, today told the college football world that finishing his Trojan career in 2012 was more important to him than the NFL's promise of instant wealth.

Barkely ended speculation by announcing that he would return to QB the Trojans next year. In so doing, he's following his childhood dream of quarterbacking SC.

The Trojans received their most lucrative and promising Xmas gift three days early, but who's counting?? Barkley's return immediately puts SC into at least the pre-season discussion for a BCS bowl bid, or higher.

With Barkley back, plus a young and talented team that came on rapidly at season's end, coach Lane Kiffin can now look forward to a potentially record setting year in 2012. The Trojans should be among the nation's best.

Barkley may or may not be the best football player in SC history...that's for the experts to decide sometime in the future.

One this is for sure...as a role model of excelling under pressure, very few can match his leadership. Originally recruited by Pete Carroll, Barkley started as a true frosh, won in dramatic fashion over Ohio State in their home stadium, proceded to lead SC through a troubled first year under Kiffin in 2010, and then as a junior, blossomed forth with signature victories over Notre Dame and Oregon in front of hostile crowds. Few college QBs have ever done it better.

Trojan fans everywhere can take pride in the fact that this young man belongs to USC. They simply don't come much finer than Matt Barkley. Fight On!!!

Women's volleyball team...grace under pressure

SC's ladies volleyball team showed why it is one of the country's very best over this weekend.

Friday, SC drew probably the toughest draw in the NCAA tournament, playing a very strong Hawaii team on its home court, and came back to win in 5 sets. Then, on Saturday, the Trojans were once again down 2-1 when they rallied to beat Pepperdine and advance to the final four next week in San Antonio.

SC will play Illinois on Thursday night. If successful, the Women of Troy will meet either UCLA or Florida State come Saturday. If they can manage two wins, SC will win its ninth women's national title and first since 2003.

This year's team has met every challenge during the season, but this past weekend may be the singular greatest achievement, thus far. Trojans everywhere can be very very proud of this team and its significant successes.. Fight On, WOT.