In a class by themselves
USC FOOTBALL
USC's recruiting class of 2003 has helped the Trojans win five Pac-10 titles, three BCS bowls and two national titles in the last five seasons.
The players who joined USC's football program in 2003 will be remembered as one of the most successful classes in college football history. Many will conclude their five-year careers today when the sixth-ranked Trojans play 13th-ranked Illinois in the Rose Bowl.
* Jody Adewale, FB, Los Angeles: Former Roosevelt High star redshirted in 2003, then served as career backup. Coaches coaxed him to return as a graduate student for 2007 season to provide depth.
* Sam Baker, OL, Tustin: Redshirted as guard in 2003, then became four-year starter and three-time All-American at left tackle. Possible first-round pick in 2008 NFL draft.
* Chris Barrett, DL/TE, Tustin: Played two games in 2003 before injuries forced him to redshirt. Switched to tight end at midseason in 2004, then back to defense in 2005 before injuries cut short his career.
* John David Booty, QB, Shreveport, La.: Graduated from high school a year early, backed up Matt Leinart for three seasons and then led Trojans to two Pacific 10 Conference championships and Rose Bowls.
* Darnell Bing, S, Long Beach: Signed in 2002 but did not enroll until 2003. Three-year starter declared for 2006 draft and was selected by Oakland Raiders in fourth round.
* Reggie Bush, RB, Spring Valley, Calif.: Showed flashes of greatness as a freshman, starred as a sophomore and then won Heisman Trophy as a junior in 2005. Selected No. 2 overall by New Orleans Saints in 2006 draft.
* Will Collins, LS, Laguna Beach: Redshirted as walk-on in 2003, earned a scholarship as team's long snapper the next season and will play in his 52nd consecutive game today.
* Mario Danelo, K, San Pedro: Redshirted as walk-on in 2003, became record-setting starter in 2005, died after fall from cliff in the week following the 2006 Rose Bowl.
* John Drake, OL, Long Beach: Large and loquacious JC transfer was a versatile backup and starter at guard and tackle for two seasons. Also provided media with some of best quotes in school history.
* Sedrick Ellis, DL, Chino: Redshirted in 2003, backed up Mike Patterson in 2004, then became dominant three-year starter and 2007 All-American. Possible first-round pick in 2008 draft.
* Lawrence Jackson, DL, Inglewood: Redshirted in 2003 and then became four-year starter, registering 49 tackles for losses, including 29 1/2 sacks. Selected All-Pacific 10 Conference in 2005 and 2007.
