East Tennesseans and Southern Californians typically have very little in common. Whether we’re talking about landscapes (sandy beaches vs. the Smoky Mountains), climate (typically mild spring/summer year-round vs. every season in one week), or values (liberal vs. conservative), there are vast differences between the two regions. However, there is at least one thing we share: the love of football.
Although California gives more precedence to NFL teams, there are still many college supporters. And when USC is good, they get a significant amount of attention – much more than UCLA or Cal. As for Tennessee natives, there is only one choice if you want to stick with the “home” team: the Tennessee Volunteers. Vanderbilt isn’t considered a serious option.
It’s very rare that USC and Tennessee cross paths during football season, but it seems like we’re witnessing a battle before it even starts: the battle for Bru McCoy. It’s August 23rd, the Vols play their first game in less than two weeks, and no one seems to know if Bru McCoy is eligible to play. Not only is his eligibility unknown, but the reason for it remains a mystery as well. Per usual, rumors are flying around about McCoy’s situation, including the idea that Southern Cal has purposely failed to fill out the proper paperwork to release McCoy. Although the Trojans made the following statement regarding the issue, it dances around the accusations brought about by eager Tennessee fans waiting on the McCoy decision:
According to reports from Outkick, had USC simply signed off on a No Participation Opportunity Form, McCoy’s eligibility wouldn’t be in question; he would’ve been available the first day he stepped on campus. Since Tennessee filed a waiver with the NCAA, it’s clear that Southern Cal did not sign off on that form for whatever reason. For the NCAA’s waiver process to be successful, the previous school must be in cooperation. It stands to reason that the Trojans have been dragging their feet at best; at worst, purposely standing in the way of Bru McCoy’s career and Tennessee’s 2022 season.
The Trojans are playing a very dangerous game and one that they will ultimately lose with future recruits that aren’t very fond with how USC is handling the McCoy situation:
