... Chuck. Special teams mistakes were decisive, but overall the Bears showed they really belong this year, so I think you're right about the BCS bowl bid.

We'll be favored in every remaining game -- a sweep to 10-1 will certainly get us in the BCS picture. Ideal scenario: USC remains unbeaten, we go 10-1, BCS decides the Pac-10 runnerup worthy of a Rose Bowl bid. Haven't been there since 1959.

BTW, the atmosphere in the Coliseum was awesome, the players on both teams acted with class and, for the most part, so did the fans. I have a great deal of respect for Pete Carroll -- he runs a clean, classy program.

Back on a winning track this week against UCLA at home.

----- jim o\-S