'Dogs earn respect in Troy

Nearly a match for the Trojans, Fresno State falls

just short in 50-42 loss to USC

By Chhun Sun
The Collegian

  More than 90,000 fans — including about 25,000 Fresno State faithful — came to watch little ’ole Fresno State battle the all-mighty University Southern California on Saturday night at Troy (also known as Los Angeles Coliseum).

It was a star-studded event with the likes of former Los Angeles Laker Rick Fox, director Spike Lee and USC alumnus and former NFL pro Marcus Allen in attendance.

Along with about 65,000 Trojan fans.

But the Bulldog fans would not be silent.

“I had my headset on but it was loud in there,” Bulldogs head coach Pat Hill said. “It was a good night and we had a lot of people here. I’m so proud of our fans for coming.”

The Bulldogs headed into the second half leading 21-13, the first time USC has trailed at home since 2002 when the Trojans came back 21-17 to beat California.

But in the end the No. 16 Bulldogs fell short 50-42 from upsetting the Trojans, the top-ranked team in the nation looking for its second perfect season and third national title.

The Trojans are also the team with two Heisman Trophy candidates in quarterback Matt Leinart and running back Reggie Bush.

“It hurts a lot,” Hill said. “It was a game I felt all week that if we came down and played Bulldog football, we’d have a chance to win.

“But you can’t make mistakes against a team of SC’s caliber.”

Fresno State’s last-minute attempt to tie the score came up short as Trojan cornerback Darnell Bing intercepted Paul Pinegar’s pass to the endzone intended for Paul Williams.

But almost beating the Trojans translates into more respect.

“It was a hard night tonight,” USC head coach Pete Carroll said. “It was a really good job by Fresno State. Their entire team was a factor. But they’re a good team.

“No question, they should be Top 10.”

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