LOS ANGELES -- Under former USC coach Pete Carroll and his relentless national recruiting approach, the Trojans brand was so strong that many kids walking the streets of cities such as New York City, Chicago, Dallas, and Seattle were adorned in cardinal and gold apparel.

Think the SEC, Big Ten, or Big 12 likes to watch its schoolboy legends dreaming of the bright lights of Los Angeles and the storied Coliseum?

Without mentioning Carroll by name, the NCAA enacted legislation preventing head coaches from attending high school spring practices anywhere in the country. The rule was strongly supported by conferences that had felt the sting of Carroll, his charismatic national recruiting prowess, and the Trojans' success.

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Greg Katz | email

Columnist, WeAreSC.com

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• USC Trojans columnist
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• Joined ESPN.com in 2011