USC's Rey Maualuga conjures memories with hit

USC linebacker Rey Maualuga landed one of the most memorable hits of his career two years ago when he crashed into scrambling UCLA quarterback Patrick Cowan with a helmet-to-helmet hit that elicited sympathy moans from fans and television announcers.

It was late in the game so I was standing on the sideline where the collision occurred. I could not believe that Cowan popped to his feet as if nothing had happened. I marveled again this week when I watched the play on YouTube (check it out below).

On Saturday, Maualuga zeroed in on UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft in almost the same location, but this time he delivered the hit late, after Craft completed a pass.

Craft was down momentarily, but he too got to his feet.

USC was assessed a 15-yard penalty, on top of the eight-yard gain.

-- Gary Klein

Comments

[Nat Ryan]

Rey Muauluga showed himself to be a dangerous player with little sportsmanship on both occasions.

Had either of those hits been in the NFL, Rey would have a nice little fine and perhaps a suspension on his hand.

The game of football is certainly a violent game, but there is no room in the game for hits of that nature. They are intended to injure and if he isn't careful, he's going to end up with a possible neck injury if he continues to lead with his head like that.

Any coach should be appalled to see on of his players hitting like that, much less celebrating after the illegal action. I guess that is just the way that USC handles themselves now that they've regained national clout.

[Michael Smith]

Tell us about those dangerous head hunting late hits that the UCLA Raiders were doing all day on Saturday?