Surprise! Claiborne Is MVP

There isn’t much question about USC’s most valuable player this season. It’s linebacker Chris Claiborne.

Other awards handed out at the team banquet at the Regal Biltmore Hotel included the Bob Chandler Award in recognition of athletic ability, academic achievement and character, given to defensive tackle Aaron Williams, and the John Wayne Memorial Scholarship and Howard Jones/Football Alumni Club Academic Award, both won by kicker Adam Abrams.

Other players honored were defensive tackle Marc Matock (most inspirational player), offensive guard Travis Claridge and defensive tackle Ennis Davis (linemen of the year), safety Ifeanyi Ohalete (special teams), offensive guard Zach Wilson and linebacker Rocky Seto (scout teams), safety Rashard Cook (outstanding player against Notre Dame) and tailback Frank Strong, who received the Jack Oakie “Rise and Shine” Award for longest run of the year for his 73-yard run against Florida State. Coach Paul Hackett also presented a special award to trainer Jack Ward.

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Receiver R. Jay Soward is considering skipping his final season of eligibility.

“It’s a lot to think about. Every junior with an opportunity is thinking about it. I’m thinking about it,” Soward said. “I still have goals to accomplish. If I do stay, I want to be [a Heisman Trophy finalist]. Most likely, you’ll see me in a USC uniform.”