While USC head football coach Pete Carroll is widely known for his massive Twitter following, his program’s groundbreaking all-access blog, USC Rips It, has quietly become a model for sports media innovation. Run by former walk-on-turned-journalist Ben Malcolmson, the blog offers fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes content—from practice photos to weight room footage and even insights from closed-door meetings.
Malcolmson’s unique journey to the role adds to the blog’s appeal. As a USC journalism student, he wrote an article about walk-ons and ended up joining the team himself. After earning Carroll’s trust, he took over the blog three years ago, leveraging social media to expand its reach. Now, he operates as a one-man media team—shooting photos, writing posts, and promoting content on Twitter.
Unlike many team-run platforms, Malcolmson enjoys rare editorial freedom. “It’s basically a blank canvas,” he said. “I can post almost anything—just not the playbook or game plan.” Carroll neither reviews nor restricts his content, a testament to their mutual trust. “Coach knows I understand the boundaries,” Malcolmson added.
The only missing element? Live in-game tweets—though not due to restrictions. Malcolmson cites poor stadium phone service as the hurdle.
As USC Rips It continues to thrive, Malcolmson wonders why more programs haven’t followed suit. “Fans love the access,” he said. “It’s surprising others haven’t caught up.”
With its blend of transparency and engaging content, USC’s blog remains a trailblazer in collegiate sports media.
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