Lawrence Jackson to return to Trojans next year

Good news Trojan fans, it seems that LJ has decided to return for his senior season. Considering the redshirt Junior expects to get his degree in June, this is a blessing. Also - LJ has only 4 sacks this year, something I think he'd like to improve upon before entering the NFL draft. Here's to hoping that is the case.

USC defensive end Lawrence Jackson told Trojans coach Pete Carroll on Thursday he would return for his senior season.

"I came back to be a part of a great program and great university. With the guys we have returning on defense, I couldn't pass up being a part of it," Jackson said.

The decision was a mild surprise because Jackson was a pre-season All-American and will get his undergraduate degree next semester. But the redshirt junior recorded just four sacks this season and will likely improve his draft status by returning for another year.

"I have a chance to be a senior leader on one of the best teams in the country," Jackson said.

He currently has 42 tackles, foursacks and two blocked kicks. Late in the season, Carroll gave Jackson a copy of the book, "The Inner Game of Tennis," to get the defensive end to relax and stop trying too hard during games.

"It helped out because I was being critical and judgmental," Jackson said.

"I just gave in to those feelings. I would be disappointed in myself. It hindered me physically.

"After wins, I wouldn't be excited about the win, I would be disappointed with no sacks. Coach Carroll said that was a natural feeling."

"He took the pressure off last week and settled down," Carroll said. "He didn't worry about expectations. Sometimes high expectations change the way you prepare and perform."
Jackson said Carroll was pleased to hear he was returning for next season. It's a rare victory for Carroll with underclassmen, following last year's departures of Reggie Bush, LenDale White, Fred Matua, Darnell Bing and Winston Justice.

All-American honors: Wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett was named to the Walter Camp All-American team, which means he is USC's first-ever two-time All-American first-team wide receiver.

Steve Smith was named to the CBS Sportsline All-American first team, which means it's the first time USC's had two wide receivers become All-Americans. Offensive tackle Sam Baker was also a first-team selection.

Jarrett was a Sports Illustrated first-team All-American while Smith, Baker and center Ryan Kalil were honorable mention selections.