Conquest Chronicles - USC vs. UW a USC Trojans Bloghttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48551/conquestchronicles_fave.png2019-09-28T16:54:34-07:00http://www.conquestchronicles.com/rss/stream/32686372019-09-28T16:54:34-07:002019-09-28T16:54:34-07:00No. 21 USC falls to No. 17 Washington 28-14 on the road
<figure>
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 28 USC at Washington" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/6Sp156uhzGajqrT_iTtedWjfAIQ=/0x0:3139x2093/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65347485/1171818571.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Christopher Mast/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>USC unable to overcome their road woes as they fall to No. 17 Washington 28-14</p> <p id="fQ7Hq9">The road woes continue once again as the Trojans are unable to leave Seattle with a victory. </p>
<p id="PPngav">USC drive started out promising, however they were forced to punt. From there the Trojans offense was unable to get much of anything going. Washington jumped to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter after a touchdown run by Huskies running back <span>Richard Newton</span> and a fumble recovery in the end zone by Andre Beccellia. USC was able to cut the score down in the second quarter to 7 after <span>Matt Fink</span> scored on a 3 yard touchdown run. By halftime USC trailed 17-7 and not much success on offense. </p>
<p id="WtabNE">Trailing 20-7 and in the red zone it appeared USC was going to get back into the game. However, Matt Fink threw a drive ending interception to Elijah Molden. Fink telegraphed his pass trying to look for <span>Michael Pittman Jr.</span> Two plays later <span>Salvon Ahmed</span> broke off an 89 yard touchdown which put Washington up three scores in the fourth. USC would strike back with a Fink to Pittman Jr. 44 yard strike, but the hole would be too much for the Trojans to climb out of as Washington made two key defensive to preserve the 28-14 win. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 28 USC at Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ZKtfFhaEBwD8mGfTyFwOmHYOM-8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19241885/1171818548.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Christopher Mast/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>Matt Fink struggled against Washington’s defense throwing for 163 yards, 1 touchdown, and 3 interceptions. </figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="SqDe2X">Washington defensively followed the BYU game plan by dropping 8 into coverage and rushing three. The Trojans had more success running the ball, but the issue was that the Trojans failed to close drives and put themselves into trouble with penalties that staled their drive. USC committed 8 penalties for 80 yards. Two game following a Washington fumble in the fourth quarter. One was an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty when the injured <span>Talanoa Hufanga</span> barley came onto the field when celebrating with teammates. Another was a pass interference penalty on Amon-Ra St. Brown. USC loss a total of 30 yards following the turnover. The passing game was very ineffective against the Huskies. Despite throwing a 44 yard touchdown pass, Fink struggled throwing 3 interceptions and averaged 5.4 yards through the air. Washington defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake disguised his coverage which took away the passing threat of the Trojans. </p>
<p id="DSGNNf">The USC defense did a solid job against the Washington offense. Despite giving up 14 points due to having to defend a short yard, the Trojans defense kept the game from getting really out of hand. The presence of missing Hufanga showed as tight ends <span>Hunter Bryant</span> and <span>Cade Otton</span> managed to find themselves open on big plays. Eason was held without a touchdown pass for the first time since the Huskies loss to Cal. The back breaking play came when <span>Ahmed</span> broke off a 89 yard touchdown run that put Washington up 28-7. </p>
<p id="vhYTYk">Despite the loss, USC still sits in a good spot in the Pac-12 south as they fall to 2-1 in conference, 3-2 overall. However, the loss still shows that the Trojans have issues winning on the road under Clay Helton. Questions will once again fly about Helton’s status. The Trojans looked underprepared and were outcoached once again in a game that they were still in a position to win. The Trojans will head into the bye week to fix their problems and prepare for another big time road game against rival Notre Dame. </p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/28/20889055/no-21-usc-falls-to-no-17-washington-28-14-on-the-roadMatthewLowry2019-09-28T12:03:08-07:002019-09-28T12:03:08-07:00USC vs No. 17 Washington: Keys to the Game
<figure>
<img alt="Utah v USC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4Y5AMWrrdh406rOdFdQwgTgBtfM=/0x1:5030x3354/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65346562/1176386102.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Trojans defeated their second ranked opponent of the season after an electrifying win against No. 10 Utah. Here are the keys to the game to beat No. 17 Washington and go three for three. </p> <p id="W2ZXBt">USC’s bizarre season continued against the Utes at the Coliseum in week 4, with 3rd-string quarterback <span>Matt Fink</span> leading the Trojans to an upset victory over the 10th ranked team in the nation. After starting quarterback <span>Kedon Slovis</span> took a big shot and exited the game to undergo concussion protocol, Matt Fink stepped up in relief and led the explosive pass game without missing a beat. Fink ended the game with a stellar 351 yards and 3 TDs while completing 21 of 30 attempts. The elite Trojan receiving corp — led by Michael Pittman’s star making performance — made big plays all night and established that the man under center might not matter much in <span>Graham Harrell</span>’s Air Raid offense. Despite having negative rushing yardage for practically the entire game, the offense got the job done through the air and the defensive line made life tough on the Utes all night. Going into their first Pac-12 road game against a talented No. 17 Washington team, a depleted Trojan squad will have to be firing on all cylinders to get the W. With Georgia transfer <span>Jacob Eason</span> putting together a strong start to the season and generating draft buzz, it will be a tall task to be sure. Here are 3 keys to the game for the Trojans to get the win in Seattle on Saturday. </p>
<p id="wRPXUJ"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Utah v USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-QLYPhnBKuWGEh5ipy-svyW-Yts=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19241298/1176385900.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="IpYNQy"><strong>Find Ways to Support Matt Fink</strong></p>
<p id="CjG3VT">After entering the transfer portal and nearly leaving earlier this summer, redshirt-junior Matt Fink found himself playing in a pivotal matchup against ranked Utah. To his credit, he excelled given the opportunity — extending plays with his mobility and finding his star receivers deep time and time again. That being said, Fink had ample support in his debut this season as he was not asked to beat the stellar Utah defense on his own. Michael Pittman lit up the talented Ute secondary all night, exploding for 232 yards on 10 receptions and a touchdown. Many of Fink’s deep completions were the result of throwing up a pass to Pittman (sometimes in double coverage) and letting his talented pass catcher make a play. Amon Ra-St. Brown and <span>Tyler Vaughns</span> should not be overlooked either with 68 and 49 yards respectively and a touchdown each. </p>
<p id="LlMfQy">If the Trojans hope to beat Washington in a hostile road environment, a key will be continuing to support Fink and putting him in positions to succeed. That means the receiving corp has to continue its outstanding performance against a talented Washington secondary that has only conceded a single passing touchdown all season. However, as the Utes found out last week, there might not be a secondary in the conference up to the task of containing these receivers. </p>
<p id="Sx54Ap">Moreover, the run game needs to be established for the offense to lean on when Fink is limited in the aerial attack. The Trojans had a net 28 yards of offense gained on the ground against Utah, with the majority of that yardage coming in the 4th quarter when they were looking to kill clock. Tailback Stephen Carr was held to -16 yards and Vavae Malepaei had only 39 yards on 11 carries. Much of the blame lies on the shoulders of the offense line who have been ineffective in the last two games blocking for the run. Against Washington that trend needs to change as controlling the pace of the game of the road will be key.</p>
<p id="rXObtv"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: AUG 31 Fresno State at USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jWCLtLk7giXOaK0o0q-YCrd7Fpw=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19241302/1165966214.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="MceXXc"><strong>Cover for Injuries in the Secondary</strong></p>
<p id="X1UDW2">Unfortunately, Kedon Slovis was not the only starter lost last week. After an unbelievable performance in which he had 14 tackles and recorded half a sack, starting safety <span>Talanoa Hufanga</span> was ruled out for the game against Washington as he undergoes concussion protocol. Another stud Trojan defensive back in <span>Olaijah Griffin</span> will also be missing as he suffers from back spasms. Redshirt freshman <span>Chase Williams</span> will start in Hufanga’s place and he — as well as the rest of the secondary — has to play lights out to make up for the loss of his talented teammates. This is particularly true against <span>Jacob Eason</span>, likely the most talented signal caller the Trojans have faced so far. All due respect to <span>Tyler Huntley</span>, <span>Zach Wilson</span> and the rest, <span>Jacob Eason</span> has been climbing up draft boards due to his outstanding performance for the Huskies so far. Excluding a stinker against a ranked Cal team, <span>Eason</span> has put great stats with 1063 yards and 10 TDs against 2 INTs on the season thus far. He has impressive arm talent and it will take all that the banged up Trojan secondary has to contain the Washington aerial attack. </p>
<p id="gsGhzu"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="USC v BYU" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/22o4HrUCSSa3OybFPs58MkTetvI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19241304/1175625841.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<p id="EANdbb"><strong>Overcome Clay Helton’s Road Woes</strong></p>
<p id="HS9OhV">It is no secret that Clay Helton has had drastically different results on the road versus at home. With a 19-3 record at the Coliseum and only a 12-15 record on the road, the disparity in home and away games is baffling. It was evident against BYU that this Trojan squad suffers from the same struggles as past iterations. Playing a less talented opponent, the Trojans looked gassed and lacked energy when things got difficult after Slovis threw a pick after a nearly flawless opening drive the series before. The Cougars managed to hang on and the Trojans’ lack of killer instinct and tendency to make costly mistakes down the stretch led to an overtime loss that was entirely avoidable. This time around, the opponent is more talented and USC’s roster is far less healthy than it was entering the BYU game. Washington has the talent to punish the Trojans early and often if they come out sluggish or sloppy on the road. It is imperative that Helton rallies his troops and gets them prepared physically and mentally for this pivotal road game. With an even tougher test away against Notre Dame next week, Helton’s job may very well rely on a win Saturday. </p>
<p id="26vcTb"></p>
<p id="udJX3C"></p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/28/20887940/usc-vs-no-17-washington-keys-to-the-gameBrandon Ann2019-09-27T10:39:11-07:002019-09-27T10:39:11-07:00Knowing your opponent: Q&A with UW Dawg Pound
<figure>
<img alt="WASHINGTON V BYU" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FQqfHIC9aTdy5JKCbp_vw6OHXeo=/328x0:3855x2351/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65337995/1176841092.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>We are joined by the good people of UW Dawg Pound to get the Washington perspective on the game.</p> <p id="kmSyGm">As we prepare for No. 21 USC afternoon meeting with No. 17 Washington, we spoke with John Sayler, editor from SBN community <a href="https://www.uwdawgpound.com"><strong>UW Dawg Pound</strong></a><strong> </strong>to discuss Saturday’s game. </p>
<p id="5QMPlo"><strong>Washington had two blow out victories after their loss to Cal at home. What would you say were the key adjustments to get the Huskies rolling again?</strong></p>
<p id="DMRebl">I don’t think there were really any obvious adjustments. The biggest factor was the level of competition. I know BYU beat USC, but they’re not really a very good team. And Hawaii also just couldn’t match Washington up front. Cal is a good team, especially on defense. The Husky offense was OK against the Bears, but in the second half it was the defense that just couldn’t get stops. <span>Chase Garbers</span> was able to make plays to win that game. UW had some drops in the passing game that fans will point to, but Cal was the better team that night and walked out of Husky Stadium with a huge win.</p>
<p id="UxW18S"></p>
<p id="cWbORI"><span><strong>Jacob Eason</strong></span><strong> has looked very impressive this season. So far he’s thrown 10 touchdowns and 2 picks. What would you say is a key factor in his performance.</strong></p>
<p id="PgmIEZ"><span>Eason</span> is looking very good. His command of the offense is probably the most impressive thing to me, because we already knew he can throw a football through a brick wall. He looks to be getting even better in terms of reading things on the field, and making a few play changes on his own after looking to the sideline for an audible the first three games. His mobility in the pocket is still a little scary to me; he’s a decent athlete, but he seems to think he is more mobile than he actually is. But if you sit back in cover-two and let him stand in the pocket, he will shred a zone defense all day long. </p>
<p id="1Ao89y"></p>
<p id="iKJKZs"><strong>What are some main concerns heading into Saturday’s game with USC?</strong></p>
<p id="i6ETsb">The Trojans’ wide receivers are what scare me. It hasn’t really mattered who the QB has been, the guys on the outside have been making plays. Those 50/50 balls are going to be the key to this game. UW has a talented secondary, but some of these guys are pretty small, and a few are still getting their feet wet in terms of game experience.</p>
<p id="H5k0ST">USC always has great athletes. That’s a concern all over the field. The veteran offensive line for UW has looked very good so far, but they will be challenged this week with guys who are as big (if not bigger) and as strong (if not stronger) than UW’s front. The running game has to get going for the Husky offense to succeed. That will be a huge key.</p>
<p id="GBNBQb"></p>
<p id="BsuQ77"><strong>What would you say are Washington’s strengths and weaknesses?</strong></p>
<p id="40b4eE">The strengths of the Husky team are the aforementioned offensive line, the NFL-ready quarterback, and the running back trio of <span>Salvon Ahmed</span> (who’s status is unknown), <span>Sean McGrew</span>, and <span>Richard Newton</span>. UW also has two of the top tight ends in the Pac-12 in <span>Hunter Bryant</span> and Cade Otton. The weakness on offense is an experienced (but undersized) receiving corps who have had trouble getting separation against elite defenders.</p>
<p id="knnZiD">On defense, the weakness has been undisciplined play from the linebackers, and some shotty tackling in the secondary. That was mostly cleaned up last week against BYU. The strength is the depth of the defensive line, where a couple of redshirt freshman have stepped in and played really well for the Huskies.</p>
<p id="n1vLjK">Special Teams was awful for Washington the past couple season, but this year has been very, very good.</p>
<p id="FHKXT2"> </p>
<p id="7JOIqA"><strong>What match up do you believe will make the difference in the game Saturday?</strong></p>
<p id="40ALZg">I’ll pick two, both of which I already touched on.</p>
<p id="n9KWRq">The Husky offensive line needs to control the line of scrimmage to give <span>Eason</span> time to throw and allow UW to establish its downhill running attack. Chris Petersen’s offense always uses the pass to set up the running game, and a clean pocket for <span>Eason</span> is a must. If the Huskies are unable to get the running game going, that makes things much more difficult in the passing game.</p>
<p id="6Lu0xz">Washington’s young secondary needs to hold their own against Pittman and company. This is a very talented USC receiving corps with excellent athletes on the outside. The Husky DBs are good, but they have not faced pass-catchers the caliber of what USC brings.</p>
<p id="px2npa"></p>
<p id="fgX5XR"><strong>Highlight 3 key players that USC fans should keep an eye on.</strong></p>
<p id="FCLCnh">Myles <span>Bryant</span> (#5) is the do-everything DB for the Huskies. He’s not a big guy at only 5’9” 185, but he is everywhere. Look for him to be near the line of scrimmage on one play, then deployed as a single high safety on the next. He is a playmaker for the Husky defense.</p>
<p id="oyViVI">Freshman running back <span>Richard Newton</span> (#28) has been the surprise of the young season. He wasn’t on a lot of fans’ radar entering the year, but he has become the go-to guy for short yardage. He’s often deployed in a wildcat formation, and he hits the hole hard with an aggressive, angry style.</p>
<p id="UwWdZi">Keep an eye on #91 in the middle of the Washington defense. Redshirt freshman <span>Tuli Letuligasenoa</span> has been very impressive so far this season. UW has had a number of great nose tackles over the past few seasons including <span>Greg Gaines</span>, <span>Vita Vea</span> and Danny Shelton. <span>Letuligasenoa</span> appears to be the next to wear that crown for the Dawgs. He is exceptionally strong.</p>
<p id="UYeImB"></p>
<p id="QHKc1g"><strong>What’s your predictions and a final score?</strong></p>
<p id="VaF7Ts">USC is always scary due to the great athletes they possess. Chris Petersen’s teams have struggled against superior athletes during his tenure at Washington, so this game is a big challenge. UW needs to get pressure on the quarterback and cover really well. Those 50/50 balls are going to be a key in this game.</p>
<p id="OVb2WZ">I like the Huskies to be able to establish the running game, and get a 31-21 win at home.</p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/27/20887310/knowing-your-opponent-q-a-with-uw-dawg-poundMatthewLowry2019-09-26T21:36:53-07:002019-09-26T21:36:53-07:00Three USC starters out for Saturday’s game vs No. 17 Washington
<figure>
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: AUG 31 Fresno State at USC" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/pkt_wuclz-oulEcnU1HOyPNE7Go=/0x0:5184x3456/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65333711/1165966656.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>USC will be without three key starters when they face the Washington Huskies Saturday afternoon. </p> <p id="N8fO4N">The injury bug has once again hit the Trojans before they hit the road. USC will be without three key starters when they take the field to face No. 17 Washington. Safety <span>Talanoa Hufanga</span>, cornerback <span>Olaijah Griffin</span>, and quarterback <span>Kedon Slovis</span> are officially listed as out for Saturday’s game per USC head coach Clay Helton following Thursday’s practice. <span>Matt Fink</span> was officially named the starter against the Huskies. </p>
<div id="Q4HxgT">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matt Fink will start vs. Washington, Clay Helton announced. Kedon Slovis has been ruled out. So has Talanoa Hufanga and Olaijah Griffin. That’s three starters out for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USC</a>.</p>— Antonio Morales (@AntonioCMorales) <a href="https://twitter.com/AntonioCMorales/status/1177383382403047425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="LIRjKW">Slovis injury occurred during the second play of last weeks game when Utah defensive tackle <span>Leki Fotu</span> planted the freshman to the ground, taking him out the game. Fink stepped in and threw for 351 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception. The redshirt junior made a couple of big plays including a 77 yard touchdown pass to <span>Michael Pittman Jr.</span> Fink will have to be more careful with throwing the 50/50 passes against the Huskies secondary. One thing that Fink brings to the position is his ability to expand plays with his legs. He will need to utilize that against a Washington pass rush that had a two sacks and forced 3 turnovers against BYU last week. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Utah v USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/YHbzFUx57wUIaJhurbZC5lnfYXo=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19237318/1176385959.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images</cite>
<figcaption>USC Quarterback Matt Fink is officially named the starting quarterback against the Washington Huskies. Kedon Slovis (Concussion Protocol) was ruled OUT. </figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="ITHhVz">While Fink is making his first college start against Washington, he’s seen snaps while filling in for an injured <span>Sam Darnold</span> at Notre Dame and the following year when <span>JT Daniels</span> had to sit for injuries at Stanford and Utah. He missed the opportunity to start when he suffered broken ribs last season in the blowout loss to the Utes. Many will remember the 51 yard touchdown run he had against Oregon State at the L.A. Coliseum in 2017. </p>
<p id="ekkdcc">While it was already a foregone conclusion that Fink would replace Kedon Slovis this Saturday, the big impact comes in the secondary with the news of Talanoa Hufanga and Olaijah Griffin. Both were unable to practice which further made their status for Saturday’s game look grim. Griffin was forced to leave last week’s game in the second half due to back spasms. Hufanga on the other hand was in concussion protocol and was not cleared by team doctors through the week. </p>
<p id="oCye3O">The USC defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast has prepared to play with out the two starters in the secondary. The Trojans played without Griffin during the second half against Utah where <span>Greg Johnson</span> and <span>Chris Steele</span> managed to step in and have a solid game. While USC will lose two key starters in the secondary, they will have <span>Isaac Taylor-Stuart</span> back from concussion protocol. The redshirt freshman was forced to sit last week’s game after he was not medically cleared to play. </p>
<p id="isoJzl">The Trojans will likely slide Greg Johnson and Chris Steele to the outside while <span>Chase Williams</span> take over at the nickel cornerback position. Head coach Clay Helton also stated that freshman cornerback Max <span>Williams</span> could also see rotation time at cornerback. CJ Pollard will likely take over at safety for the injured Hufanga. The sophomore safety has been the Trojans MVP thus far in the season. His production will be missed on Saturday as the Trojans secondary prepare to face <span>Jacob Eason</span> and the Huskies passing game. Hufanga made up for a lot of USC’s mistakes on the defensive side of the ball and will need someone to step up in his place. </p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/26/20886404/three-usc-starters-out-for-saturdays-game-vs-no-17-washingtonMatthewLowry2019-09-26T10:30:00-07:002019-09-26T10:30:00-07:00USC at Washington: Three key Trojans to watch
<figure>
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 14 USC at BYU" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Fy7itG1KfNtQNVA8zXioYnL6L0U=/0x0:4432x2955/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65328336/1168600076.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Boyd Ivey/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here are three key Trojans to watch in Saturday’s game against theWashington Huskies</p> <p id="cyF7TO">The Trojans travel to Seattle as road underdogs. And this is big. Last week’s upset win doubled USC’s wins under Clay Helton as an underdog. Before last week, USC was 1-12 in games where the Trojans were an underdog. Now, they are 2-12. Can lightning strike twice? Can Helton, <span>Matt Fink</span>, and co. make it 3-12?</p>
<p id="8eQ6HB">These are three Trojans who will have something to say about it.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: AUG 31 Fresno State at USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IdM1DcyV3aLjL78pCSCJnkTDF5s=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19234772/1165966623.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jordon Kelly/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="SqiMNQ"><span>Brett Neilon</span></h2>
<p id="Pk3qFL">In just the first two games of the season, there were a lot of good things that could have been said about Brett Neilon. He was the center in the middle of a much-improved offensive line and a fearsome rushing attack. </p>
<p id="he44bZ">Oh how much things can change in two weeks.</p>
<p id="L44967">Against a BYU team that had allowed 250 rushing yards per game and only rushed three defenders per play, Neilon was consistently blown off the line of scrimmage at the snap. The USC offensive line had a numbers advantage in each of those plays, and its inability to take advantage allowed BYU to drop eight defenders and win the game. Neilon’s game against Utah last week was less atrocious from the perspective of getting beat, but that didn’t stop this.</p>
<div id="fSqJxJ">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">For the second week in a row, a defensive tackle from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USC?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USC</a>'s opponent is named to the PFF Team of the Week: <a href="https://t.co/ZmYYxsyeee">https://t.co/ZmYYxsyeee</a></p>— Shotgun Spratling (@ShotgunSpr) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShotgunSpr/status/1176044495009280000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="8y4QgC">One of the supposed upsides of going from <span>Toa Lobendahn</span> to Brett Neilon was that the Trojans would finally have a center who could effectively snap the ball. But on seemingly every play of the game, Neilon would snap the ball to the right of Matt Fink. </p>
<p id="uiRyvf">Watch this big play, where Matt Fink’s hands have to snap right to catch the snap. His palms literally both face the camera. </p>
<div id="HVsDYL">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"> Matt Fink, ladies and gentlemen. <br><br>His third touchdown strike of the game is a deep ball to Michael Pittman, giving USC a 21-10 lead over No. 10 Utah.<a href="https://t.co/vI57hYKVhF">pic.twitter.com/vI57hYKVhF</a></p>— Sporting News (@sportingnews) <a href="https://twitter.com/sportingnews/status/1175247704139730944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="XtSCo7">Do that action with your own hands. Imagine how uncomfortable and unnatural it is as a quarterback to reach to your right every play. It’s a miracle that USC never turned the ball over in that fashion.</p>
<p id="tjFNom">So you could tell me I’m nitpicking, and that if Fink catches the ball its OK. and I’m here to tell you that it’s not. Football is a rhythm sport, and a quarterback that’s a half beat off will not be able to sync up with his receivers as well. Neilon’s snapping may have played a role in how Fink barely worked the short and intermediate parts of the field.</p>
<p id="CRoZRq">More importantly, a poor snap hurts the rhythm of the quarterback to runningback hand off. I think part of the reason that USC fans have been calling for <span>Markese Stepp</span> to get touches is because he is USC’s no nonsense, head-down, straight line back. Though he may not be as polished as <span>Vavae Malepeai</span> or <span>Stephen Carr</span>, his speed and style make it hard for defenders to rally to the line of scrimmage; he’s just there too fast. A poor snap means that the handoff takes just a beat longer, and one of Neilon’s snaps caused a bobble on handoff. That’s part of why USC had negative rushing yardage at halftime.</p>
<p id="L3ugfL">Neilon’s snapping is what fans should look for against Washington. Luckily, his snapping issues seem to have just emerged this week, and they are hopefully preventable. But if it continues, especially in potentially rainy Seattle, the Trojans will be lucky to escape a turnover just from the snap.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: AUG 31 Fresno State at USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/O8O1xjfB0MVQOYmMcBi-O17Afj0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19234787/1165782921.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Adam Davis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="fEPqmK"><span>Isaiah Pola-Mao</span></h2>
<p id="Ex3rVA">Up until now, Isaiad Pola-Mao has stayed somewhat in <span>Talanoa Hufanga</span>’s shadow. Hufanga is USC’s do everything safety in run support, and defending the pass. He looks like the Trojans best tackler, which wouldn’t be a big deal if tackling wasn’t one of the defenses biggest weaknesses.</p>
<p id="xmeQqO">Hufanga leads the teams in tackles with 42, but <a href="https://www.ocregister.com/2019/09/24/usc-safety-talanoa-hufanga-in-concussion-protocol-as-injuries-mount/">seems likely to miss the Trojans stint with the Huskies in Seattle</a>. So Isaiah Pola-Mao has got the step up.</p>
<p id="wqDCn3">Pola-Mao has been hit or miss thus far this season. His greatest hit was his game-sealing interception on opening day against Fresno State. But Pola-Mao has had too many missed tackles for a Trojan defense that needs to be better. Just look at this by number 21. Pola-Mao had an opportunity to stop this run at 15 yards or so, but gets stiff armed and doesn’t even get in a tackle attempt.</p>
<div id="ckDuN6">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Been that!✨ <a href="https://twitter.com/brumfield_devin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@brumfield_devin</a> <a href="https://t.co/V6q0VprbFH">https://t.co/V6q0VprbFH</a></p>— Johntae Mcdowell (@JohntaeMcdowell) <a href="https://twitter.com/JohntaeMcdowell/status/1175284241879511041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 21, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="RRX1M5">Pola-Mao will have to be better against Washington. It will have to be Pola-Mao to step into Hufanga’s shoes and make clean tackles. He will have the be USC’s pocketknife, the do-it-all guy on the defense who covers up for other units when they make mistakes.</p>
<p id="WT0ayY">But that may be just half of what Pola-Mao is tapped to cover. Washington’s leading receiver is tight end Hunter Bryant. Unlike the prototypical tight end receiving threat, Bryant is actually relatively small at just 6’ 2” and 240 pounds. 6’ 4” Pola-Mao will not be intimidated by Bryant’s lack of size.</p>
<p id="z5FEIh">But despite Bryant’s lack of extraordinary physical traits, he finds a way to box out and make plays.</p>
<div id="V6fDPU">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">HUNTER BRYANT! ONE HAND! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RoseBowl?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RoseBowl</a> | <a href="https://t.co/NI0cm7N38B">https://t.co/NI0cm7N38B</a> <a href="https://t.co/TaCJsKfXe1">pic.twitter.com/TaCJsKfXe1</a></p>— Seattle Times Sports (@SeaTimesSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeaTimesSports/status/1080275946412724225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2019</a>
</blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div>
<p id="SPbPvF">Defensive coordinator will probably mix it up when it comes to who defends Bryant on a play to play basis, and Pola-Mao will almost certainly spend significant snaps lining up across from him. </p>
<p id="Z505Yj">In Seattle, we will see whether Pola-Mao can step up to be that guy for the Trojans defense.</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 09 Stanford at USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Vh2f3qTMSJKC-NEMxMgL2FB7zs8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19234791/867188246.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by John Cordes/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="ACdqsZ"><span>Marlon Tuipulotu</span></h2>
<p id="Vmyvh7">There has been a lot made of Washington’s passing game and <span>Jacob Eason</span>’s pro prospects, but people are sleeping on Washington’s rushing attack and linemen. Washington features a three-headed monster in the backfield, made up of <span>Salvon Ahmed</span>, <span>Richard Newton</span>, and Sean Mcgrew. They each have over 200 rushing yards on the season. For context, Vavae Malepeai is the only Trojan runningback with over 100 rushing yards on the season. </p>
<p id="xZmONM">Washington’s running attack is supported by a stout offensive line lead by tackle <span>Trey Adams</span> and center <span>Nick Harris</span>. <span>Adams</span> was a consensus first round prospect for last year’s <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL draft</a>, but elected to stay in college after tearing his ACL last season. He has nothing left to show in terms of ability, but must show NFL teams that he can be durable. <span>Nick Harris</span> is a sophomore who dominated in his freshman year. He was Pac-12 all first team and was a preseason second-team All <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/college-football/teams/american">American</a> for this season. </p>
<p id="IkLMRh">Tuipulotu and the Trojan defensive line will be charged with stopping this dynamic Washington running attack. USC’s defensive line has talent and ability and every position, but was often misdirected by fakes against Utah. </p>
<p id="8z3yHl">Against Washington, USC’s defensive line will have to play more disciplined football. Defenders must be cognizant of their gaps and make sound tackles. This sounds like just the basics, but it is somehow the thing that the USC defense has struggled with the most. </p>
<p id="6y8QZm">It will be on Tuipulotu, <span>Jay Tufele</span>, and co. to ensure that Washington can’t just run the ball down USC’s throat. They’ve been successful with this against Stanford, but Washington’s offensive line is more robust than Stanford’s.</p>
<p id="x1LuwK">If the Trojans can stop runs between the tackle without committing extra men in the box, it will be the first step to a win. That job will rest on Marlon Tuipulotu.</p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/26/20884119/usc-at-washington-three-key-trojans-to-watch-neilon-pola-mao-tuipulotuKenneth Su2019-09-25T11:07:39-07:002019-09-25T11:07:39-07:00Three key Washington players to watch
<figure>
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 21 Washington at BYU" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U_TssrIf0b0sb2SB0cRSMAcvRhI=/0x62:3629x2481/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65319799/1170119187.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Boyd Ivey/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>No. 17 Washington will be a stiff test for No. 21 USC. Here are some key players that could make an impact in Saturday’s game</p> <p id="elgps7">No. 21 USC hits the road once again to face the No. 17 <a href="https://www.uwdawgpound.com/">Washington Huskies</a> in another marque Pac-12 game. The Trojans are coming off a 30-23 victory over the No. 19 <a href="https://www.blocku.com/">Utah Utes</a> while Washington is coming off a blowout road win against BYU. This years Huskies team is considered to be one of the most talented in the Chris Petersen era. Who are some key players from Washington that fans should keep an eye on this Saturday?</p>
<p id="smPidC"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="NCAA Football: Washington at Brigham Young" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IFnXHvd9SP4YW3hnj8QwUEs1pwI=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19231973/usa_today_13394145.jpg">
<cite>Melissa Majchrzak-USA TODAY Sports</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="m92JBb">
<strong>Quarterback </strong><span><strong>Jacob Eason</strong></span>
</h2>
<p id="csDykw"><span>Jacob Eason</span> is one of the key players on this years Huskies team. So far he has been the best player on the team with his performance. The redshirt junior and former Georgia quarterback has thrown for 1,063 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions and has a quarterback rating of 79.2 which is ranked No. 15 in the nation. If given enough time he can really pick apart a defense with his arm. Last week against BYU, <span>Eason</span> had an outstanding game, throwing for 290, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception. <span>Eason</span> will face a USC defense that features a young secondary and a very effective defensive line. Good news for USC is that Eason is not a mobile quarterback like most teams they’ve faced this season. However, He’s only been sacked 4 times with three of them coming in the Huskies loss to Cal. </p>
<p id="6D4cpM"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 14 Hawaii at Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PdjnOIrvcNGChLo4zoBocnlba0c=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19231969/1168489975.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Jeff Halstead/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="DM2nyY"><strong>Safety Myles Bryant</strong></h2>
<p id="Y9oYuP">One of the best safeties in the Pac-12 and for good reason. He’s currently 3rd in the conference in interceptions with two and leads the team in tackles with 24. Bryant is know to make plays all over the field. Last week the senior safety made a season high 9 tackles in Washington’s victory over BYU. His two interceptions came in their blowout victory over Hawaii. Fans can expect to hear his name through out the afternoon. Going up against the Trojans wide receivers and their pass happy offense, the Huskies will need him through the game. </p>
<p id="D12DJF"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 14 Hawaii at Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IAsh1evHjmKnkPgCq6YXNmO5vzk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19231961/1169907877.jpg.jpg">
</figure>
<h2 id="9wBrLy">
<strong>Defensive Lineman </strong><span><strong>Benning Potoa’e</strong></span>
</h2>
<p id="4Glnug">Once again the USC offensive line will have another defensive lineman to deal with in <span>Benning Potoa’e</span>. While the senior defensive lineman is listed as a reserve, he still leads the team in tackle for loss with 5 and sacks with 3. Last season Potoa’e started 13 games and sees a lot of rotation time. He notched 3 tackles, with 2 of them for loss, and one sack in last weeks game against BYU. Expect Huskies defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake to follow the same game plan as Utah and BYU where they line him up over center Brett Nelion to create pressure. If USC can’t keep him out the backfield then it will be a long game for them. Should Matt Fink start, his scrambling ability should help him buy some time. </p>
<p id="jcNVem"></p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/25/20882997/three-key-washington-players-to-watchMatthewLowry2019-09-23T14:05:00-07:002019-09-23T14:05:00-07:00USC vs Washington Game Preview
<figure>
<img alt="NCAA Football: Southern California at Washington" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/8jcevkAh87OaBp-YN34oAsS3hPQ=/0x0:2962x1975/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65304220/usa_today_9672348.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>No. 21 USC hit the road again to face No. 17 Washington in another marquee conference matchup. </p> <p id="jdizzg">USC bounced back in a huge way against Utah at home. The once again hit the road for another big time match up with another ranked Pac-12 team in the No. 17 <a href="https://www.uwdawgpound.com/">Washington Huskies</a>. Washington is coming off a 42-17 blowout road victory over the <a href="https://www.vanquishthefoe.com/">BYU Cougars</a>. Yes the same team that defeated USC in overtime. While USC is currently sitting at 2-0 in Pac-12 play, Washington lost their lone conference game at home to No. 15 Cal in a game that was delayed due to a thunderstorm. We break down the upcoming matchup between two ranked Pac-12 teams.</p>
<p id="cxvV2w"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Utah v USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/39ASZEUmjRUHcJ_54ZLjX02GK1A=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19224846/1176063633.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="ejUOIQ"><strong>Offense</strong></h2>
<p id="uKO4Z0">The USC offense once again played shuffling quarterbacks as <span>Kedon Slovis</span> went down with a head injury during the first quarter against Utah. Redshirt junior <span>Matt Fink</span> stepped in and provided a spark for the Trojans, throwing for 351 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Fink took advantage of the wide receivers winning the 50/50 battles over the top. The status on the starting quarterback position will be unknown at least until Tuesday when Slovis undergoes concussion protocol. If he’s unable to go then expect Fink to start on Saturday. One thing’s for certain is that the wide receiving core will be ready to go. <span>Michael Pittman Jr.</span> had another outstanding game on Friday night. The senior receiver led the game with 232 yards and 1 touchdown on 10 receptions. <span>Tyler Vaughns</span> and Amon-Ra St. Brown also had touchdown receptions against the Utes. </p>
<p id="XjSZjY">Fink didn’t spread the ball around as much as Slovis or Daniels does Friday night. The big play approach may not be there against the Huskies. Washington’s secondary has four interceptions on the season and is second in the conference against the pass, giving up only 213 passing yards per game. Senior safety <span>Myles Bryant</span> currently has two of the Huskies for picks. Their defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake does a great job disguising coverage to confuse opposing quarterbacks. <span>Graham Harrell</span>’s “air raid?” and USC’s receivers will be tested against the Huskies secondary. </p>
<p id="tod3Kg">The run game wasn’t very effective against Utah last week. USC only gained a total of 13 yards against a very tough Utes defensive line. The Trojans offensive line struggled with the physicality of the Utah defensive line which disrupted the run and pass blocking. <span>Vavae Malepeai</span> and <span>Markese Stepp</span> physical running style managed to give USC some success on the ground. <span>Stephen Carr</span> had a critical error when he fumbled giving the Utes the ball back in a tie game. Against the run the Huskies have allowed 118 yards per game. They also have 10 sacks on the season which is 4th in the conference behind USC with 11. Senior Benning Potoa’e currently 4th in the Pac-12 conference with 3 sacks on the year, He could create some problems for the USC offensive line. This could be a game where the Trojans must rely on the run game. </p>
<p id="ZL36l7"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Utah v USC" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/93wD0F5A6D22BIQWfVQNaPxZals=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19224844/1176069274.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Meg Oliphant/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="Rar0jq"><strong>Defense</strong></h2>
<p id="PPUnhd">The Trojans defense has been very interesting through the first four weeks of the season. The young secondary has done a solid job holding their own despite the lack of starting experience. The have had instances where they’ve been gashed for plays of 20 yards or more through the air. Sophomore safety <span>Talanoa Hufanga</span> has turned in outstanding games for the Trojans. Last week he was one of the key players on defense who stepped up against Utah. He had a total of 14 tackles on the night in the victory over the Utes. Another key factor was the ability of the secondary to step up despite injuries in the unit. Cornerback Olaijah Griffin was forced to come out the game with back spasms while <span>Isaac Taylor-Stuart</span> missed the game with a concussion. <span>Greg Johnson</span> and <span>Chris Steele</span> were able to step in and despite giving up 210 yards to Huntley, it wasn’t anything catastrophic. The status of Griffin and Taylor-Stuart is still in the air for this week. USC will need them back to cover the Washington receiving duo of <span>Aaron Fuller</span> and Ty Jones. Tight End Hunter <span>Bryant</span> will also draw the match up of <span>Isaiah Pola-Mao</span> or Talanoa Hufanga. </p>
<p id="iFuqA2">The USC defensive line has been the strong point of the team through the season. <span>Drake Jackson</span> and <span>Christian Rector</span> off the edge with <span>Jay Tufele</span> and <span>Marlon Tuipulotu</span> on the inside have given opposing offensive linemen issues. One problem that has haunted the defense has been the lack of containing the outside run and mobile quarterbacks. This week they won’t face a mobile quarterback in Jacob Easton, however he will be the best quarterback they’ve faced so far. He has potential to pick apart the Trojans defense through the air. Easton currently has thrown for 10 touchdowns and 2 interceptions while averaging 268 yards per game. USC must create pressure and disrupt his timing. It’ll be a task as the Huskies offensive line as only allowed 5 sacks on the year. </p>
<p id="BgIWGI">An issue the Trojans have faced is the running game. The defense has done a masterful job against the interior run, however it’s the outside runs that has gashed them the last few weeks. Washington has three running backs in <span>Salvon Ahmed</span>, <span>Sean McGrew</span>, and Richard Newton. All three have rushed for a combined 692 yards and 8 touchdowns. Look for Washington to use some misdirections and jet sweeps to receivers to beat USC on the outside and keep them off balance. </p>
<p id="jKAcIG"></p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="USC v Washington" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/h6f6G0JVl418KMVZK_zuoKJYS1Y=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/19224857/622930062.jpg.jpg">
<cite>Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images</cite>
</figure>
<h2 id="G8WCkE"><strong>Key Notes</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li id="8HMiaW">This will be the 86th time USC and Washington met with the Trojans leading the series 52-29-4</li>
<li id="HV314v">This is the Trojans first meeting with Washington since 2016 (USC defeated the Huskies 26-13 in Seattle)</li>
<li id="zqRO31">Washington head coach Chris Petersen currently 1-1 against USC</li>
<li id="Jw8Ip1">USC is currently 2-0 against teams AP Top 25 ranked teams (No. 23 Stanford and No. 10 Utah). Washington is currently ranked No. 17</li>
<li id="1NQ70o">USC is ranked No. 21 in the latest AP Top 25. </li>
<li id="An8cgI">Washington is a -9.5 home favorite over USC. The Trojans are 3-11 against the spread and 2-12 outright as an underdog under Clay Helton. Friday night was their first victory as an underdog since defeating Washington in 2016. </li>
</ul>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/football/2019/9/23/20879332/usc-vs-washington-game-previewMatthewLowry2012-10-15T18:09:30-07:002012-10-15T18:09:30-07:00USC UNFILTERED - UW
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qZZb_SnHJ5n3M94hYOa3yJ8Vask=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/1456683/154087885.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Otto Greule Jr - Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>UNFILTERED - UW</p> <p>A final look at UW...</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4u_lX2DcEKA" frameborder="0" height="315" width="560"></iframe></p>
https://www.conquestchronicles.com/2012/10/15/3509356/usc-unfiltered-uwParagon SC