Now before all you Trojan fans get crazy flooding the server with hate-mail, let me explain myself a little better. USC has the best pre-season rankings that anyone could ask for. The Trojans, despite losing their ridiculously productive backs and receivers in the past two drafts, are at the top of every national poll. And despite all their losses at key scoring positions, USC only seems to only grow stronger in the eyes of the mega-media.

I’ve been saying for a long time that 2007 will be a good year for the Trojans. But I’ve also been careful to note USC’s key losses. Do the Trojans have a solid offense? Yes. A Heisman candidate for a quarterback helps. So does Patrick Turner lining up on the side-line. The running backs (Washington, Moody, Gable) made some decent progress last year, but lacked sufficient forward movement in key battles.

But the hype’s not about that DeSean…you of all people should know about hype.

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All the offensive hype doesn’t come from what USC already has. It comes from the potential of what this Trojan offense could be. With top recruits waiting in line at both receiver and running back, in some cases ten deep, each player craves his chance to shine. And USC’s coaching staff seems to have a way of creating situations to maximize their players’ potential. Remember, there was a time when Dwayne Jarrett and Reggie Bush were just kids with a high-light reel, waiting to get their shot.

And don’t forget: fairly productive is all the offense will really need to be early on next season. The Trojans will have some time to develop their offensive game, because of their known strength at defense. USC will return ten defensive starters. Guys like Keith Rivers, Sedrick Ellis, Lawrence Jackson, Rey Malaluga and Taylor Mays. Guys that have one mission and one mission alone — to stop your team from moving an inch. It’s what they do…and they’re damn good at it. That’s where the USC hype comes from, DeSean. Great offensive potential. Proven defensive record.

Or have you already forgotten:

Thanks to Brian Grummell of sports.aol.com for reminding us of this great youtube treat