The Stage is Set...

Southern Cal took care of Cal with ease, 35-10, setting up the huge matchup with Fresno State. The game could not have come at the better time. Texas is gaining ground in the media and polls. Many are saying the Longhorns are the best team in the country, just ask Mr. Corso.

Reggie Bush's Heisman hopes have been on the back burner the last three weeks and he needs a huge game on a national stage against Fresno State to get back in the picture. His teammate Matt Leinart could repeat as the Heisman winner, but both seem to be trailing Texas quarterback Vince Young.

A Fresno State win would be the shock heard round the world. It would be the biggest upset on a national stage since probation struck Miami upset UCLA in 1998. That Miami team like the this year's Fresno State was very talented but not given the chance to beat the unbeaten Bruins.

UCLA's loss at Miami, the first week of December, cost them a shot at the national championship in the Fiesta Bowl. Granted Fresno State's name does not carry the weight of Miami, so in theory the Bulldogs win would be bigger, especially considering the magnitude of two time defending national champion USC.

I am sure the Trojan faithful could not have fathom back in February how important this week's game with the Bulldogs would be. USC is not getting a tune up prior to facing UCLA. The Trojans will be in a dog fight and it will take an all out effort to lay a big on Fresno State.

Since Alabama lost style points are not needed. USC just needs to win out, but anything less than a 21 point by USC over the Bulldogs will have many thinking..............