When Matt Grootegoed went down in 2003, the linebacker position was held together by a team effort and Collin Ashton was one of the guys who stepped up and let it be known that he could play some football.

He saw time in all 13 games at his outside linebacker position. All told, he made 28 tackles on the year, forced a fumble and had a deflection in coverage.

Ashton was a great example of the depth the Trojans have at one of the most important positions on the field. Even with the promise of great linebackers entering in the class of 2004, Ashton will still be considered a valuable asset for the Trojan defense. Collin was awarded a scholarship prior to fall camp in 2004.