SI Gives USC More Media Love

With ESPN and Sports Illustrated releasing their college football previews so close together, it feels like two divorced parents trying to prove who loves their child more on Christmas.

Nobody should be surprised that SI joined the parade of polls picking USC as the top football team in the land. A shot of three Trojan tailbacks is featured on one of the five regional covers.

Inside, the magazine acknowledges Troy's embarassment of riches while placing them at the head of the class. Cal is the only other team ranked from the Pac 10, sliding into the final spot at #20. USC gets some more ink in SI's salute to the Year of the Running Back. They place John David Booty at third in the Heisman race.

Online, SI.com says to watch out for Ronald Johnson and Joe McKnight, while USC alum Arash Markazi highlights the hot prospects of McKnight and several others. Like ESPN, they also say to watch the games against UCLA and Cal, but their list includes out-of-conference matchups like the Trojans' trip to Nebraska.

The print edition's 67 "Can't Miss Matchups" goes even further by including the three contests pictured online, plus USC's trips to Notre Dame and Oregon, as well as Oregon State's venture to the Coliseum.

There's also an article about former USC offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin and his adjustment to life with the Oakland Raiders. It seems like the magazine went to press before Kiffin was hospitalized on Monday with a viral infection.

Magazine cover courtesy of Sports Illustrated.