CLOSE CALL: Southern California Barely Escapes Washington

The Trojans committed 16 penalties, turned the ball over three times, missed a field goal, had a punt blocked, and faced a very inspired team on the road on primetime television. They still won. And on a day where ranked teams were falling everywhere, the Trojans escaped with a precious "W."

John David Booty was pretty decent throwing for 236 yards and a touchdown around two picks, but the Trojans showed why their known as "Running Back U.'" Staffon Johnson ran the ball 14 times for 122 yards and a score. Chauncey Washington had 20 carries for 106 more yards and another score, as the two Trojan workhorses combined for 34 attempts, 228 yards and 2 scores.

The Trojan defense wasn't bad either, allowing only a paltry 190 yards of total offense. Though he ran for a pair of scores, Jake Locker was finally rendered mortal, being limited to 87 yards, an interception, and a sub-50% completion percentage.

The Huskies were advantageous, capitalizing on the mistakes USC committed. Most of their 24 points were the result of USC turnovers, but the Trojans were more talented and more physical than the Huskies.

Give Washington credit for knowing how to take advantage of mistakes. That trait will help them immensely down the line. But the Trojan ground attack, defense, and attitude in big games are the best in the nation. And it's why they're the class of the Pac-10 by far.

—E. Blasco