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Musings from Arledge Solo Edition: Brandon Hancock

by:Chris Arledge•10/05/23
Brandon Hancock
Southern California Trojans fullback #40 Brandon Hancock is tackled by Washington Huskies safety #15 Darin Harris in the fourth quarter at Husky Stadium. (Photo by Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports © Copyright Mark J. Rebilas)

My guest on this episode of Musings from Arledge Solo Edition is former USC fullback and former broadcaster Brandon Hancock. Brandon was a key figure on the dominant Pete Carroll teams. He is one of the few players in history to catch a pass from or block for three Heisman winners. He also blocked for USC’s all-time leader in touchdowns.

Brandon and I talk about the Pete Carroll glory days, including a little bit about two of the greatest games in college football history. We talk about what made Carroll’s teams so good and we talk about some of the most important and most colorful figures in USC football history, including, of course, Pete Carroll, Reggie Bush, LenDale White, Matt Leinart, Matt Grootegoed, Lofa Tatupu, Troy Polamalu, Lane Kiffin, and Steve Sarkisian.

We also spend some time on the current state of the USC program. This was before the Colorado game, so your humble host was not nearly as angry and did not rant.

Hancock was valedictorian at Clovis West High School before enrolling early at USC ahead of the 2002 season. He started twice as a true freshman while appearing in all 13 games. He dealt with injuries during the 2003 season but started seven times and finished with 13 receptions for 160 yards and two touchdowns. Hancock missed the entire 2004 season after undergoing surgery for injuries to his knee and chest. He returned in 2005 to play in all 13 games, finishing with four carries for 13 yards and a score, as well as nine receptions for 102 yards. Hancock’s USC football career ended during fall camp ahead of the 2006 season when he tore his ACL and MCL during a drill.

Hancock finished his career with the Trojans with 24 receptions for 277 yards and two touchdowns. He added eight carries for 19 yards and one score on the ground.

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