As we say goodbye to the Pac-12 Conference over the next several months, we are remembering USC football’s unbeaten teams over the decades.
The 1932 team is special because it was the first unbeaten USC team coached by both Howard Jones and assistant coach (defensive coordinator) Sam Barry. Jones and Barry were great teammates on the football staff, but beyond that, they are the two most important figures in the entire history of USC athletics. Jones built the football program. Barry built the basketball and baseball programs. Both men reached the summit in their respective fields of expertise. Jones won national championships with Barry’s help. Barry won the College World Series championship and reached the NCAA Final Four. Both men are legends — Jones in football, Barry in basketball and baseball.
Howard Jones’ first unbeaten USC football team came in 1928. His second, in 1932, was forged with assistance from Sam Barry. Let’s relive that 1932 season: