Go ahead, catch your breath. Unless you’re a college football poll voter. Your job is far from over. USC’s dreams of a berth in the National Championship Game are history. The UCLA defense was absolutely phenomenal in today’s 13-9 win over the Trojans. It had been seven meetings since UCLA beat USC. But today’s game made it well worth the wait for Bruins fans.

So what the hell is going to happen now? The #2 vote looks like it’s down to Michigan and Florida. The Gators lead Arkansas 17-7 at the half in their SEC Championship Game. The 2nd half of that game will be the biggest half they play all year. With Michigan sitting idle, it’s up to Florida to put on a great display in an effort to lure voters to their side.

The script looked all too familiar for college football fans. USC was marching, aided by timely first downs and plenty of referee help. A blatant helmet to helmet hit went uncalled, a false start somehow became a nullified play, and a phantom Bruins pass interference call gave the Trojans new life. But it was the Sons of Westwood who made the big play today. Eric McNeal’s tipped a pass and intercepted it on the way down. UCLA ran down the clock and then boomed a 60+ yard punt, effectively ending USC’s hopes of a National Championship spot.

Both losses for USC this year came on tipped passes thrown by John David Booty. Next year should be interesting for the Trojans. Will Mark Sanchez seize the starting job from Booty? But for now, it’s the Rose Bowl. For UCLA, it’s the Emerald Bowl in San Francisco, which simply doesn’t compare to today’s win. While USC has a spot in the Rose Bowl, UCLA can celebrate tonight and remind everyone that yes, Los Angeles is big enough for them as well.