For this season at least, the University of Southern California should be known as Linebacker U.

That title has traditionally been worn by Penn State University, but given that the Trojans will most likely have all three of their starting ’backers taken in the first round of this year’s NFL draft, it’s clear that an exception needs to be made.

Perhaps the least heralded of the trio is Brian Cushing, a 6-3, 250-pounder who has stayed somewhat in the shadow of the better-known Clay Matthews and Rey Maualuga. Cushing is no secret to NFL scouts, however. In fact, there is a school of thought among draft experts that it is Cushing who, of the three, may end up having the most successful NFL career.

The reasoning behind this thinking is due to a few things. For one, Cushing’s intensity level is unmatched. He was called a bulldog by both USC Head Coach Pete Carroll and linebackers coach Ken Norton, Jr. He plays the entire game at one speed – full speed – and can wreak absolute havoc on offenses due to his relentless motor and game-changing playmaking ability.

Another reason for the scouts’ love affair with Cushing is the New Jersey native’s versatility. He is capable of playing any linebacker position, both on the inside and on the outside – an asset that makes him capable of fitting in with any defensive scheme.

Lastly, teams can’t get enough of Cushing’s athleticism. He was actually recruited out of high school as a strong safety, but his work in the weight room led to such a dramatic weight gain that he grew into the linebacker position. Despite packing on the extra muscle, Cushing has managed to maintain the quickness and speed he displayed as a defensive back prospect.

As with every potential draftee, Cushing has a few question marks surrounding him. One is that he and the rest of his USC teammates look better on tape because they all have played with such a strong supporting cast. Critics claim that if they did not have each other, they would be less impressive individually as prospects. A more serious concern is one that has dogged him since high school, and that is the issue of steroids. Despite never having failed a single drug test, Cushing has had to consistently endure claims that he uses steroids, including a recently surfaced report that was categorically denied by Cushing’s handlers and coaches.

It’s unlikely that this “bulldog” will let the rumors get to him. The gym rat who wears an “I Hate Haters” t-shirt when he works out knows a thing or two about deflecting criticism. Because what really matters is that on draft day, Brian Cushing will be feeling the love.

Latest on Cushing:

Pete Carroll denies internet report that Cushing and USC linebacker Clay Matthews used steroids

Mel Kiper Jr. predicts the Houston Texans will take Cushing with the 15^th overall pick, while his ESPN colleague Todd McShay says that Cushing will go no. 25 to the Miami Dolphins.

Cushing Says:

On being called a bulldog by USC linebackers coach Ken Norton, Jr.:

“It’s a violent sport where the more vile the name coaches call you, the higher the compliment. What other business could you be in where a coach calls you a [expletive] and you love every second of it?”

In response to the steroids allegations that seemingly follow him everywhere he goes:

“I really believe it’s almost the American point of view now where people build people up just to see them fail. As records are made to be broken, heroes are made to fall. Love turns into jealousy.”

Cushing on the Web:

USC Profile

Stats and personal info from his college career

Wikipedia page

Information and links to other articles on Cushing

Sports Illustrated Feature Story

Describes Cushing’s toughness, willingness to play through pain

NFL Draft Scout Profile

Stats and measurables

NY Daily News Feature Story

Describes how the NY-area native turned down Penn State and Joe Paterno

YouTube video of Cushing’s 2008 highlights