For the past few weeks, Pete Carroll has been defending the USC football program to anyone who would listen. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that he is also out promoting a new book.
Tonight, Carroll will be on HBO’s Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel talking about his time at USC, his decision to leave a legacy he created for the NFL, and what he thinks of the sanctions the NCAA handed down on the Trojans.
Pete Carroll talks USC football and the NFL on HBO's Real Sports with Bryant Gumbal tonight. Photo courtesy The Los Angeles Times
Here are some excerpts from the interview.
On hearing the news of the sanctions levied on USC
“Oh, I was shocked. My heart just hit the floor. I couldn’t believe that what had taken place would come to this.”
On how this all happened during his time as head coach of the Trojans
“It just did. We didn’t have the awareness. We weren’t—we didn’t have the awareness to know. I wish I would have the awareness that I have now, going back.”
On if the punishment placed on the USC program fits the crime
“We made mistakes along the way. But we didn’t make mistakes that would take a program down with the facts that they hold – I would be ashamed for the NCAA.”
On if the NCAA Infractions Committee had it out for the Trojans
“Without question.”
You can catch the whole interview conducted by Andrea Kremer tonight on HBO at 9 p.m. ET.
For more college football updates, check out our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter at osaadelson, twstephens and osplanner.
