College Football Preview: Sarkisian has big plans for USC in 2014

Ever since former head coach Pete Carroll left for literally greener pastures with Seattle in the NFL, USC has stumbled in the Pac-12. Now new coach Steve Sarkisian is hoping his fast-paced offense will reinstate the Trojans, which last year were 10-4 (6-3, Pac-12), as a football powerhouse.

He said, “We take it one game at a time, but we know if we can win the Pac-12, we have a good chance of making [the new four-team playoff. Once practice starts, it is go time.”

“Go Time” for the Trojans includes 16 returning starters with quarterback Cody Kessler ready to become a household name. Sure, Marqise Lee has taken his talents to the NFL but junior Nelson Agholor could provide even more firepower.

On defense, there are eight returning starters for new Defensive Coordinator Justin Wilcox. The good news for Trojan fans is All-America defensive end Leonard Woods is back along with three starters in the defensive backfield.

While some suggest it’s premature to place the Trojans in the national championship discussion, Sarkisian is correct in that if USC wins the Pac-12 an invite to the first ever College Football Playoff could be in the cards.

ODDS to win the National Championship: 25/1