Loosen Up, Fans, It’s Only Football

Thank God USC’s football season is over. The media guide called it “The New Era,” and that’s what bothers me.

I get this sort of sick feeling that unless major changes are made the glory days for USC football are over. I hope I’m wrong. . . .

Trojan teams of the past had charisma, stature and presence. Those elements started to vanish or were nonexistent as this season progressed. Former USC teams repeatedly charged to come-from-behind victories because they had character and poise, instilled by the head coach.

Even during off-seasons, the Trojans created fear and respect among universities on their schedule. Not this year. When they found themselves losing, they were as good as finished. I don’t blame the players as much as the coaching. Ted Tollner just doesn’t understand the tradition or spirit of USC, nor can he instill it. . . .

(Please excuse the Xerox copy, but I saw no reason to make any changes in this letter that appeared in Viewpoint on Nov. 26, 1983).

GARY BRANCH

La Mesa