It’s a beautiful day in a beautiful place. Hard to imagine a better setting for a football game. I’m about even with the 10-yard line on the end of the field with Penn State written in the end zone (for reference when you’re watching on TV later), and it almost feels like you can reach out and touch the San Gabriel Mountains from the Press Box.
That’s the good news. The bad news is that much of the Penn State media party, including your correspondent, was horribly stricken last night by, we’re not sure what, food poisoning or a flu bug or something in the water.
I won’t be graphic, but 12 hours ago I was pretty sure I’d have to miss the game. At least one writer is missing it.
I’m on no more than two hours of sleep. There might be more playing hurt in the press box than on the field.
One more Rich Ohrnberger tidbit: Somebody asked him what celebrity he’d most like to run in to out here, and Ohrnberger didn’t hesitate: “Wilford Brimley.”
You’re just not gonna beat that.
The lineup of former Penn State and USC greats who’ll receive coveted sidelines passes is now complete.
For USC: Marcus Allen, Ronnie Lott, Willie McGinnest, Keith Rivers and Cedric Ellis.
For Penn State: John Cappelletti, Don Abbey, Michael Robinson, Ki-Jana Carter and Tamba Hali.
The Lions are doing their customary playing surface stroll, although bowl oficialls are only letting them on the sidelines. Kickoff now less than two hours away.
More later.
