To prep for the make-or-break game this weekend against the Trojans, the House is going to take a look at some of the Trojans bigger offensive weapons.
Sanchez (Who has been awesome) will be ignored for now, since we are unsure whether or not he will play.
Joe McKnight, RB, Soph
via www.pe.com
The #2 recruit in the nation in the 2007 class (per rivals.com) McKnight is a hell of an athlete. He can catch out of the back field, hit the corner, and really is a tad reminiscent of Reggie Bush - despite that comparison being used to death by this point.
Coming off a solid freshman campaign, McKnight really has not been used very much so far. He is on pace for barely over 100 carries, despite leading the team at 34, and he is third on the team in receptions. He has gotten over 10 carries in only one game so far this season, and in that game he rushed for 105 yards - against Ohio State no less.
In Tempe last year, McKnight abused our linebackers on swing passes out of the back field all evening, catching 5 balls for 71 yards and a TD. He also ran 7 times for 30 yards. Considered to have had his "coming out party" in The Rose Bowl this year when he ran for 125 yards on 10 carries, and caught 6 balls for 45 yards. If the Trojans find a way to get McKnight more touches, he could have a monster, monster career. We should keep a spy on him at all times when he is on the field.
C.J. Gable, RB, Soph (RS)
via i.a.cnn.net
He is a baaaaaaadddd man. A power back with speed (like you were supposed to be Nance, only he is legit), Gable also has not been able to get many touches in the Trojans stacked offense, but has made the most of his opportunities. Averaging 6.1 yards a carry this year, and over 11 yards a carry last year (!), Gable is a beast. He was on pace for a great freshman year before getting derailed by an injury and is running with a purpose this season. It is going to be hard to stop this combo, but if Sanchez is out, the Trojans might be looking to run more, so we might be able to get away with stuffing 8 in the box. Doubt it.
Damian Williams, WR, Soph (RS)
A transfer from Arkansas, he was actually ranked behind USC 2006 WR recruits David Ausberry and Vidal Hazelton, but has 3x their combined production. The leading Trojans pass-catcher with 20 receptions for 310 yards and 4 TD, Williams has been an extremely pleasant surprise.
Fierce out of his cuts with excellent quickness, leaping ability, and solid hands, Williams has become Sanchez's favorite target, along with Patrick Turner. Can anyone stop him? We will see. Omar Bolden's descent has been disappointing so it will be interesting to see who we put on Williams.