From: Cole
Anyone else realize that it has been an awfully long time since we returned a kick for a touchdown? 2003 versus Florida if my memory serves me correct. Clempson was able to turn C.J. Spiller's 8 return TDs last season and a few by Jacoby Ford into several wins in games they should not have won. What has kept us from one, just one return TD in six seasons?
Blocking is the key. Good kick returns, like hitting, are infectious. If the return team thinks they can break one, then they get energized and perform better. Our team allows the coverage team to get to deep and close to our return guy way too often.
The return men have been so so. Captain Munnerlyn almost took a punt back and Stephon Gilmore did last season, minus a phantom penalty. Look for Gilmore to break the streak this year. Anyone else think the officials are more likely to hold the flag when a stud returner is bringing the kick back? Not on purpose, but they just expect him to get loose. Chris Culliver is the all time leading return yardage man at USC. What does that tell us?
-our defense has allowed a lot of points
-he has had the job for 3 seasons
Culliver, in spite of his blazing speed, has looked very mediocre on most of his returns, sans one or two last season. He is fast but not elusive. Why is this important,? Review any return by Spiller last season and the difference becomes clear. Bryce Sherman was a welcomed change and was close to busting one or two. He brings increased elusiveness without sacrificing speed. D.J. Swearinger is also in the mix, but I don't believe he has breakaway speed. The best bet appears to be Sherman. Return some kicks and we may win a game we shouldn't. How about Auburn?
