Running backs Silas Redd and Curtis McNeal ran all over the California Golden Bears in the USC Trojans' 27-9 victory at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, as the ground proved a key factor in USC's ninth-straight victory over California.
Over at Conquest Chronicles, the guys were more than encouraged by a breakout game for a rushing attack that had taken some criticism for not being more involved — both from the team and the media.
Both players topped the century mark (Redd: 21 carries, 158 rushing yards, McNeal: 10 carries, 115 rushing yards), and as a team, USC finished with 296 yards (7.4 yards per carry) via the ground. It was the first time since 2008 against Washington State that the Trojans had multiple 100-yard rushers. McNeal and Redd can also give credit to an offensive line that was heavily criticized after the Stanford game.
As the Trojans won the battle of possession time and offensive production, the USC defense also kept the California attack in check, registering seven sacks and two interceptions.
Thanks to constant pressure from the front four, [quarterback Zach] Maynard and Cal's tailbacks weren't able to generate much offensively all afternoon long. But it just wasn't the play of the line, as the defense as a whole was responsible for holding Cal to just 250 total yards of offense.
For more USC coverage, check out all the action at Conquest Chronicles.