If anyone mentioned “Rose Bowl” around USC back in September, even the most loyal football fan would have said no way.  After starting the season 1-3, the young Men of Troy reeled off eight consecutive victories in October and November.

Not only did Troy end the regular season as one of the top teams in the nation, they earned a Rose Bowl bid.

Tradition says that because New Year’s Day falls on Sunday, the game and parade will take place Monday, Jan. 2.

It was remarkable the way the 9-3 Trojans got to the Rose Bowl. Many say that once USC changed quarterbacks, the season turned around.  Sam Darnold took over for Max Brown and made a huge difference.

Several other key factors were critical.

The defense started making stops, dominating seven out of the last eight games.

Defensive linemen stopped the run. Linebackers stopped the run and the pass. They made open field tackles.

The secondary, supposed to be one of the strongest areas, gave up big plays but made stops when they had to.

On offense, it all starts with the linemen who not only did an excellent job protecting Darnold, they started opening holes for their four outstanding tailbacks, led by Ronald Jones II.

If the Trojans continue to play at a high level, they will beat Penn State in the Rose Bowl.

Mr. Finley may be contacted at sfinley@aol.com