Wow. What a game. USC beat Cal but it was heart-breaking for Cal. I think they deserved to win that game - they completely outplayed us in all departments except special teams. But on the other hand, that is what great teams are made of - stepping up when it matters the most, and winning ugly games.

The last defensive stand was impressive. I know a lot of writers have switched their #1 but between Oklahoma beating Texas 12-0 (only 12 points considering the potent offense), and USC beating a National Championship-caliber Cal 23-17, there is not much difference. I would keep USC at #1 just because they won a tough game. Remember Ohio State 2 years back? They stuck at #1 even when they kept winning dirty games against not-so-great teams.

The writers have an obvious bias against the Pac-10 and they tend to give less credit to such games, but I guess it does not really matter. If USC takes care of business every game, and stays healthy, there is nothing that can come in the way of the Rose Bowl, or maybe the National Championship even.

On the health note, Steve Smith may be out for the season. Now, that just sucks. He was just beginning to show his true talent and start threatening to be the go-to guy after Bush, but sadly, he has a fractured fibula. Damn.

Hope the rest of the crew steps up and performs. McFoy and Jarrett have even bigger responsibilities. And the tight ends are now going to be critical.

Let’s see what happens. Arizona State next. They are also unbeaten and they are also racking up points. Once again, I think USC is fortunate that this game is at home.

And after that, more tests lie ahead - Notre Dame, ucla are both doing well. It’s not going to be easy. No one said it was going to be. Good luck, and wood is knocked, and fingers are crossed.