Sign, then get in line

USC tailback Allen Bradford is unhappy over not being used. How many other five-star thoroughbreds are stalking the Trojan sidelines thinking the same? Mitch Mustain and Aaron Corp were recently demoted, without discussion, and certainly expected to play this season.

The question becomes, what promises are made by the coaching staff when recruiting? These ESPN-hyped recruits could be starting somewhere else today and building their profile for a future in the NFL. Does USC continue on this unbridled path of stockpiling star-struck kids coming to play in the land of Hollywood and celebrities? Or do these teenagers wise up and play tomorrow on a lesser-known team and become a big fish in a small pond?

If the Oregon State game, which featured a virtual unknown, undersized yet bruising runner, doesn’t alert future Troy recruits, then I want in on the sales pitch that cons supposed great athletes to sit and watch other purported great athletes as their dreams disappear on the Coliseum floor.

Bob Arranaga

Los Angeles