[Smith] Pardon the dust ... USC almost home - OC Register
...The Galen Center could have been USC's "Waterworld," with its ambitious blueprints, elephantine price tag ($100 million) and Hollywood-blockbuster expectations to become one of Southern California's premier sports and entertainment destinations...

...Even in its under-construction state, the majestic Galen Center is a better symbol than the eyesore the City of Los Angeles had let the Sports Arena become in the last decade. (I spotted a rat there once.)

Soon, the volleyball and basketball programs will have a proper home court. What's more impressive is that this sports castle has been privately funded, largely from $100 million in donations, including $35 million from the namesake benefactors Louis and Helene Galen...

Turner Stars With Receivers Hurting - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
Someone had to step up. And with Dwayne Jarrett, Chris McFoy and Steve Smith relegated to shaking hands and signing autographs, USC's wide receiver crew boiled down to, as Coach Pete Carroll called it, "the pups -- and Patrick."

The "Patrick" in this case was sophomore Patrick Turner, expected to step up last week at Washington State before taking a step back. But at least Smith was available to take over then with his career game.

Turner, a 6-foot-5 highly touted Tennessean, had no choice Saturday but to follow up with one of his own once Smith went down with an ankle injury.

Turner was the man...

Also, Receiver Turner Steps Up in Big Way - LA Times

Kicker Danelo Is Building on Success - LA Times
Mario Danelo's record-setting performance last season went largely unnoticed for a USC team that scored touchdowns seemingly at will.

But after five games, the junior kicker from San Pedro has established himself as a prominent weapon for the unbeaten Trojans, who are still looking to hit their stride on offense.

Danelo made all four of his field-goal attempts in a 26-20 victory over Washington on Saturday that kept third-ranked USC on track for a possible berth in the Bowl Championship Series title game.

Danelo, the son of former NFL kicker Joe Danelo, converted from 34, 25, 32 and 21 yards after drives stalled against the Huskies...

Also, Kicker hoping to make the grade - LA Daily News
Special forces drill out big plays - LA Daily News
Forsett, Davis, Danelo Named Pac-10 Football Players of the Week - Official Pac-10 Website

Bradford practices at fullback - Daily Trojan
USC freshman Allen Bradford saw action at fullback during Monday's practice, but it is not a switch.

Bradford...played running back...switched to safety ...then went back to running back...both coach Pete Carroll and Bradford said it wasn't a position switch.

"We're just as we always do, continuing to experiment to see where guys can help us," Carroll said.

"It's not a permanent move," Bradford said. "It's just something coaches are messing with to see how I do and how I look."

Carroll said Bradford wasn't the only player to try different things...

Also, Trying to Get Bradford In - Inland Empire Press_Enterprise
Playing could mean Bradford hasn't had his fill at FB - OC Register

USC offense sputters - Daily Breeze
It was another day of 400-plus yards for the USC offense, which means it's among the elite nationally.

But why does it look like such a struggle?

By the fifth game of the season, shouldn't the Trojans have proceeded a little farther down the development path? Impatient, spoiled fans, naturally, say yes...

..."Sometimes it can get very frustrating, because you work so hard to get down there and you can't punch it in,'' said quarterback John David Booty...

Also, BCS still likes Trojans - LA Daily News
No Apology Necessary - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
Forward Progress Stopped - LA Times
Second to None Might Be the Way to Go - LA Times
[Bisheff] Trojans do not deserve poll vault - OC Register
USC struggling? Koetter says no - Arizona Republic

Tick ... Tick ... Ticked off - Tacoma News-Tribune
...the officiating crew debated if any time should be put back on the clock. Several players later said they heard the officials debating whether to allow as many as six seconds.

Instead, they decided to keep the clock at two seconds...

...“The general rule of thumb is that if there is one second when I (signal to start the clock), and they snap immediately, the play can go,” referee Brian O’Cain said. “We try to keep the same pace the whole game. We don’t go faster or slower.”...

Also, Huskies take no satisfaction in coming close vs. USC - Tacoma News-Tribune
UW fans should focus on bowls, not conspiracies - Tacoma News-Tribune
Huskies lament ending vs. USC - Seattle Times
Ticked off - Seattle Times
Pac-10 top official backs up his crew after Huskies loss - Seattle Times
[Moore] What's up with Pac-10 officiating? - Seattle P-I
How about a little perspective UW fans - Everett Herald
Clock issue leaves Dawgs itching for more ticks - Eugene Register-Guard
Time expires, so Trojans exhale - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
Conference officials face more scrutiny - Daily Breeze
Trojans still standing; Huskies are clocked - Daily Breeze
Trojans' daring escapes becoming a familiar theme - Daily Trojan
Hanging on - Daily Trojan
Plenty of Second-Guessing at Finish - LA Times
Carroll Defends Decisions Made Near End of Game - LA Times
USC almost gets clocked - OC Register
Pac-10 program demands more competent officials - Daily Bruin

[Daschel] Pac-10's game of year: USC vs. WSU? - The Columbian
...Is it possible we've already seen the Pac-10's Game of the Year?...

...Laugh if you want, but in the Pac-10, it's often the game you least expect that becomes the year's classic...

...So why USC-Washington State in 2006?

First, it was a darned good game. Both teams had moments on offense and defense, there were big plays, the atmosphere was electric and the outcome wasn't assured until the scoreboard clock hit zero.

The second part, we won't know until season's end. The Trojans appear capable of running the table for a third straight year against Pac-10 competition. And don't be surprised if the Cougars are nipping at their heels in the standings...

Johnson Reviews His Performance - LA Times
Seeing is believing.

That's what freshman tailback Stafon Johnson found out early last month in USC's film room when he dissected his daily performance.

Since that lengthy session, Johnson has slowly progressed from the bottom of the depth chart. On Wednesday, with C.J. Gable out again because of a groin strain and Allen Bradford working with the scout team, Johnson returned kickoffs and took numerous repetitions with the first- and second-unit offenses.

"You've just got to be patient and let things come to you," Johnson said.

Like most freshmen, Johnson was in a hurry to play when he arrived from Dorsey High as one of the Trojans' most prized recruits...

[Mackovic] Are the Trojans as good as advertised? - Desert Sun
While watching most of the USC-Washington State game last week, I was struck with how well the Cougars were playing. They were in the entire game and if one did not know any better, it would be hard to tell which team was ranked in the top ten in the country.

Certainly the Trojans showed their ability to hang in there until the end and capitalize on every opportunity, but the game was not supposed to go down to the wire. Pete Carroll let out a big sigh of relief after the game. Yes, they were playing in Pullman on a Saturday night, and I have heard things can get crazy up there. But the question remains, are the Trojans overrated?...

Favorite Uncle - LA Times
...In the rambling suburbs north of Dallas, football coaches from pee-wee league through high school welcomed Emmanuel Moody onto their teams. Those nimble feet, that twitchy acceleration. Then they discovered his physical gifts came with a familial attachment.

His young uncle showed up at practice or asked for meetings that stretched an hour. A self-described "tall, skinny, Korean guy," he had never played football yet freely offered his opinions.

"Every coach Emmanuel had, I got in some altercation with," he said.

Michael Chang...could be just as rough on his nephew...

...Not much has changed...

USC's Hazelton ready to roll if Jarrett remains on injured list - Daily Breeze
This could be the week for the emergence of USC freshman receiver Vidal Hazelton, who...has yet to catch a pass in a game.

Assuming starting split end Dwayne Jarrett can't go for the second consecutive week because of his shoulder sprain...sophomore Patrick Turner will start again and Hazelton would be Turner's backup.

Hazelton said he has settled into the job after relying merely on his athleticism in high school in Virginia...

..."I knew my plays (here), I knew what I had to do, but I was never sure going out to the line of scrimmage. Now I'm more confident in exactly what I have to do. Now I just go out there and have fun and play.''

Coach Pete Carroll said he's beginning to see Hazelton's work pay off...

Also, Carroll urges patience in freshmen - Daily Breeze
Freshman Receiver Set to Step Up - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
With receiver shortage, Hazelton sees opportunity - Daily Trojan
Injuries push young receivers to the fore - OC Register

Injuries again proving Trojans' Achilles' heel - Inalnd Empire Press-Enterprise
They couldn't do anything about it last January at the Rose Bowl. But at least USC fans could console themselves: It can't get any worse than this.

Who ever heard of an injury list with 16 names on it, like the one the Trojans had for that national championship game?

Those fans know better now.

Just four games into this season, the list of injured Trojans has reached 23...

...Even for USC, with four straight top recruiting classes allowing Coach Pete Carroll to play 16 freshmen already, 23 is a big bite...

Also, Offensive Line Hit by Injury Wave - LA Times

Bradford back at running back - Daily Trojan
...after switching back to defensive back last week, Bradford worked with the offense Tuesday in what he indicated was a permanent move.

"Hopefully for the rest of my career," Bradford said. "Just going to work hard, get myself up there (in the rotation)."

"After coming back to defense, he feels like he's better suited, and he's more excited about his chances on offense for the long haul, and he'd like to get settled in. I'm totally in agreement with him, and I feel fine about that," coach Pete Carroll said.

The Colton, Calif., native said he is ready to play if needed this Saturday.

"Based on my preparation, I think I'd be able to do it," Bradford said...

Also, Bradford Returns to Offense - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise

Wash. State's Doba knows about Auburn, Southern Cal - Birmingham News
...Edges to USC - Doba likes Auburn quarterback Brandon Cox, noting the Trussville native is heady. But USC's John David Booty "always throws to the guy that's open, whether it's short or long. He takes what's there. He makes great decisions."

Another advantage for the Trojans is linebacker Rey Maluaga, "who's 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, runs sideline to sideline and can cover you deep."

USC played Washington State with two disadvantages. First, the Trojans played on the road. Second, they played without All-American wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett.

"I think that was to our advantage," Doba said. "But let me tell you, that (No.2 receiver) Steve Smith can play with anyone."...

Also, [Kern] There's no Texas or USC this year - Philly Daily News
[Schad] Auburn coach Tuberville calls for playoff system - ESPN
Think all losses sting the same? Think again - Tacoma News-Tribune

Secondary is not the primary concern for the Trojans - Daily Breeze
...Everybody panic, right?

Here's how the Trojans describe the picture they see.

"I wouldn't call it an eye-opener,'' strong safety Kevin Ellison said. "We just have some stuff to clean up and keep getting better.''

"Give them credit, they came to play,'' cornerback Terrell Thomas said of the Cougars. "It's a learning experience; it's the first time we got attacked and so it was a real good experience. We were ready for it; they just made some good plays.''

And now for the "however.''

The pass defense USC displayed against WSU was a disappointment at times to Carroll, who wasted no time in locking his charges in the film room and then making them apply the lessons on the practice field...

Also, Southern Cal defense is young, talented and deep - Everett Herald

Huskies' Wood savors his chance - Seattle P-I
When Marlon Wood was a boy, he would root against his father's alma mater.

Never mind that Richard Wood was USC's first three-time All-American. Never mind that Marlon's father is a member of the Trojans Hall of Fame, or that his parents met on the Los Angeles campus.

"I wanted them to lose. I never grew up a fan of (USC)," Marlon Wood said. "You could call it hatred. That's what it is."

Marlon would go so far as to buy the opponents' T-shirt and wear it around the house the week before a USC game.

"I was a little pest," he said...

Also, UW at USC: Keys to the Game - Seattle P-I
Chopping down USC - Seattle Times
Ready to put the Wood to USC - Everett Herald
Back to earth - Everett Herald
UW's Wood a Longtime Trojan Hater - Kitsap Sun

Buzzy Trent, 77, big-wave master dies - Honolulu Advertiser
Buzzy Trent was a fearless adventurer who fought bulls in Tijuana and boxed before gaining fame as one of the legendary pioneers of big-wave surfing...

...Goodwin Murray "Buzzy" Trent Jr. died Sept. 6 at Hale Ho Aloha nursing home in Pacific Heights. He was 77...

...Trent...was an exceptional athlete who could run 100 yards in 10 seconds in high school. Trent was an all-state football player whose career was cut short at the University of Southern California by a leg injury suffered in practice...

...His grandfather, John Parkinson, was a Los Angeles architect who designed several of the city's historical landmarks, among them the Los Angeles Coliseum, City Hall and University of Southern California campus...

USC next, Willingham remains cautious - Seattle Times
Washington's weekly media luncheon Monday featured reporters from several national Web sites and newspapers calling in, each asking questions about UW's turnaround from 3-19 the past two seasons to 4-1 this year.

Maybe they should have waited a week...

...But if the Huskies beat No. 3 USC on Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum to get to that level, all those "Washington is back" stories will ring a lot more true.

Beating a rebuilding UCLA team at home or a struggling Arizona team on the road is one thing. Beating USC anywhere at any time is another...

Also, Next for UW | USC - Seattle Times
[Johns] Willingham's men are taking their surprising start in stride - King County Journal
UW faces a stern test at USC - Tacoma News-Tribune
Huskies hungry for Trojans - Washington Daily
No respect, no worries for UW - Everett Herald
[Dodd] If you haven't noticed, Willingham apparently can coach again - CBS Sportsline

Ellis In, McFoy Out - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
One Chino alum, Sedrick Ellis, returns to the USC lineup this week. But another, Chris McFoy, will be out four to six weeks.

An MRI has revealed what postgame X-rays did not -- that McFoy, the senior wide receiver who scored his first career touchdown Saturday at Washington State, suffered cracks in both his arm and shoulder blade on his next reception.

USC coach Pete Carroll said freshman wide receiver Vidal Hazelton will move into McFoy's X-back spot for the No. 3 Trojans (4-0, 2-0) when they battle for first place in the Pacific-10 against Washington...

...Ellis, USC's junior nose tackle, has missed three games after knee cartilage surgery and is expected to be back against the Huskies...

Also, McFoy out, Ellis returns - Daily Trojan
McFoy Is Lost to Injury - LA Times
Line ready for Ellis return - OC Register

Sartz upset over his 'worst game' - LA Daily News
More than one USC player struggled against Washington State, but linebacker Dallas Sartz described his effort against the Cougars as his worst game of the season.

Maybe it's because Sartz said he was reminded of that fact by linebackers coach Ken Norton Jr. on Monday, as the Trojans regrouped from giving up more yards than expected against Washington State.

"I didn't think it was a good game for myself," Sartz said. "Was it my worst game of the season? Yes.

"We didn't play up to par. Our game wasn't up to our standards, and coach Norton's not going to sugarcoat it...

[Miller] USC legacy is Booty's dream - Seattle P-I
...one way to consider John David Booty. He's the God-fearing, young Southern gentleman gone West -- his few belongings stuffed inside a red kerchief that's tied to the end of a stick -- to seek his fortune amid the bright lights and Hollywood starlets that surround USC, the nation's biggest, big-city program.

The other is this: If the junior doesn't win a national championship or, at least, a Heisman Trophy, he's failed the Trojans quarterback legacy he inherited.

Neither is a completely fair or accurate portrayal of the nation's most publicized quarterback...

Trojans report: Strategy and personnel - CBS Sportsline
LOOKING GOOD
LB Rey Maualuga -- ...his 31 stops in 4 games is 10 more than any other Trojan.

QB John David Booty -- In his first truly stressful situation, Booty completed 23 of 32 passes for 269 yards...

...RB C.J. Gable -- The true freshman has become the team's primary kick returner...

...STILL NEEDS WORK
CB Terrell Thomas -- ...penalized for pass interference and for grabbing a face mask...

Also, Trojans report: Inside slant - CBS Sportsline
Trojans report: Notes, quotes - CBS Sportsline

Smith, White, Schneider Named Pac-10 Football Players of the Week - Official Pac-10 Website
Wide receiver Steve Smith of USC, linebacker Scott White of Washington and kicker Tom Schneider of California have been named U.S. Bank Pac-10 Football Players of the Week.

With All-America receiver Dwayne Jarrett out of the lineup with an injury, Smith, a senior from Canoga Park, Calif., stepped up to key the USC offense in a hard-fought 28-22 win at Washington State. Smith had 11 receptions for 186 yards (16.9) and a pair of touchdowns covering seven and 11 yards. He accounted for most of the Trojans' 269 yards through the air...

Trojans foil WSU upset bid - Tacoma News-Tribune
...Despite successfully picking apart USC’s secondary for much of the game, Brink and his teammates – with no timeouts – couldn’t overcome the Trojans’ eight-man prevent defense and the dwindling clock.

“It’s tough when teams know you’re going to throw,”...

Brink’s 22-yard dart to Bumpus over the middle on third-and-20 gave the Cougars one last gasp at a desperation heave...

...ending up in the hands of free safety and former O’Dea High standout Taylor Mays.

Also, Cougs gain respect, but lose game - Seattle Times
Cougars come ‘oh so close’ - Daily Evergreen
The WSU football team might just be that good - Daily Evergreen
Doba needs to step forward for media, fans - Spokane Spokesman-Review
Up to the challenge - Spokane Spokesman-Review

THRILL SEEKER - SF Chron
With an agent at ICM, a strapping body, good hair and a significant movie role under his belt, actor David Ellison, 23, has officially hit the pavement in search of work...

..."Everyone tells you you should major in business," he says. "But I just hated it, to be perfectly honest." He transferred to the University of Southern California and gravitated toward the film school, even though "Hollywood and movies is a pipe dream. On my parents' radar, you don't go to school to be an actor."...

...The attorney led him to "Flyboys," which was being directed by Tony Bill, another pilot...

Good News, Bad News Kind of Game for McFoy - LA Times
It took USC receiver Chris McFoy more than four seasons to catch his first touchdown pass; it took him only one more reception to get knocked out of the game.

The fifth-year senior from Chino scored on a seven-yard throw from John David Booty to give the Trojans a 7-3 lead in the first quarter. It was the 49th reception of his college career.

"I felt liberated after all those years," McFoy said. "I just felt like the monkey is off my back."

But on his next catch, early in the second quarter, McFoy was hit by two Washington State defenders and left the game. He was taken to the locker room...his left shoulder bruised...

Also, Senior finally finds end zone - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
McFoy: TD worth the wait - San Bernardino Sun

Trojans Find Means to Win at the End - LA Times
..."This is a program that needs experiences to learn from and to grow and we're getting challenged," said Coach Pete Carroll..."The conference is stout and we're fighting our tails off."

On a warm and wind-swept afternoon, it once again was abundantly clear that USC will not be sailing to another conference title...

..."It was a reality check to go out and not hold the Pac-10 lightly," middle linebacker Rey Maualuga said. "Each game could be a close game. We all have to realize that."...

...Nearly every time the Trojans needed a big play, it seemed, Booty looked for Smith. He found him 11 times for 186 yards and two touchdowns...

Also, Trojans answer catcalls - Daily Breeze
Northwest passage - Daily Trojan
Cagey Cougars expose weaknesses in upset bid - Daily Trojan
Drive is key for Trojans - LA Daily News
Short-Term Gains Aren't Enough for This USC Team - LA Times
Trojans hang on to stop Cougs, 28-22 - Spokane Spokesman-Review
Cougs give USC a scare - The Olympian
Cougars not satified with close loss to No. 3 USC - Longview Daily News

USC pass defense sore spot for Carroll - OC Register
After reviewing film of his team's shaky 28-22 victory over Washington State on Saturday, Coach Pete Carroll sounded a little concerned about his team's ability to stop the Cougars' deep passing game.

Washington State was the Trojans' first taste of a classic Pac-10 attack and they didn't handle it well. USC's young secondary was mistake-prone and its pass rush disappeared...

...With high-flying Cal, Oregon and Notre Dame looming on the Trojans' schedule, tightening up the pass defense becomes the No. 1 priority in practice...

..."We don't play all those teams the same," Carroll said...

Also, USC questions its own play - LA Daily News
Trojans facing questions - LA Daily News
Secondary Survives First Test of Season - LA Times
Trojans Need Ellis to Rush Back - LA Times

Smith saves the day for Trojans - Daily Trojan
...That wasn't Steve Smith out there.

Steve Smith is a solid possession receiver, capable of making tough catches but lacking the elite speed or size to stand out as one of the nation's best...

...Steve Smith took the day off.

In his place was a receiver unlike any in USC's storied history of great pass catchers, with nimble feet, cuts sharper than Ann Coulter's tongue...

...His name is Super Steve, a superhero...

Also, No. 2 plays like No. 1 for Trojans - Inalnd Empire Press-Enterprise
USC looks out for No. 2 - Daily Breeze
Smith receives star treatment - LA Daily News
[Adande] Receiver Smith Registers a Strong Second - LA Times
Mr. Smith goes through WSU - The Columbian
Top 10 Player Race - Week Five - College Football News

Less Talking, More Results - Inland Empre Press-Enterprise
It is charming, effective and to be expected from a USC program that has won 49 of its past 51 games.

You don't run off decisive 99- and 83-yard drives in the second half on the road...without the kind of confidence Pete Carroll's USC teams exude...

...Some of the young Trojans defenders who gathered on the Cougars logo an hour and a half before the kickoff, after a loud jawing session with some of WSU's students and then players, didn't look like they understood...

...Maybe no one told those few young Trojans to react to the mocking crowd by ignoring it...This isn't "Miami West."...

Also, A Game They Will Remember - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise

Leader's role seems to suit Booty so far - Daily Breeze
USC needs to look no further than the most important spot on the field to find a leader.

That was firmly established Saturday night in the Trojans' 28-22 win over Washington State at Martin Stadium, where quarterback John David Booty time and again delivered his team through a mistake-filled game.

Booty passed for 269 yards and three touchdowns and directed long second-half scoring drives with key fourth-down conversions, not to mention leading an offense that converted on 8 of 14 third-drown tries.

"John David has done everything that you expect a big-time quarterback to do,'' Coach Pete Carroll said...

Also, Booty acts like a winner - LA Daily News
Booty is leading man for Trojans - LA Daily News

USC is looking for lost explosiveness - Lindy's Sports
...With Bush no longer being able to line up wide and stretch defenses, and without the 6-foot-5 Jarrett a jump-ball candidate on any deep pass, the USC attack is a bit more compact. But there is an assembly line of young players ready to be stars - just add experience.

True freshman Emmanuel Moody is one of those. He rushed for 130 yards on 21 carries against Arizona, including bursts of 40 and 30 yards. The running back competition might not be over, but Moody took a big step in solidifying that coveted job.

Moving up the depth chart because of Jarrett's injury are 6-5 sophomore Patrick Turner and 6-3 true freshman Vidal Hazelton. All three of those players were part of different top-ranked recruiting classes...

Trojans report: Inside slant - CBS Sportsline
USC might not have the same offensive firepower as in recent seasons, but there is nothing wrong with the defense.

With a starting lineup that included four juniors, five sophomores, true freshman safety Taylor Mays and senior outside linebacker Dallas Sartz, the Trojans slugged their way to a 20-3 victory at Arizona on Saturday night.

"I love the fact that we're playing defense like this," coach Pete Carroll said.

What would you expect the ol' defensive coordinator to say?...

Also, Trojans report: Notes, quotes - CBS Sportsline
Trojans report: Strategy and personnel - CBS Sportsline

Cougars overhaul, over prepare in practice to take on Trojans - Daily Evergreen
Practice was different this week for the WSU football team.

Greater attention was paid to detail; coaches screamed to get their points across. Players encouraged each other to work hard and get it right. Drills not done right were done again and again until they were perfect.

With hopes of upsetting No. 3 USC on Saturday at Martin Stadium, the Cougars tried to leave nothing for chance in practice.

“I know it is going to be a hard-fought game on both sides,” WSU wide receiver Jason Hill said. “It is a big-time game in a big-time atmosphere.”...

...they will have to play flawlessly...

Also, Week 5: USC at Washington State - Athlon Sports
Pac-10 Rankings - The Columbian

USC's Smith could be a marked man in Pullman - Daily Breeze
If junior split end Dwayne Jarrett doesn't make the trip when USC leaves today for Saturday's game against Washington State, senior flanker Steve Smith immediately becomes a marked man...

...Being USC's second-leading receiver this season and ninth on the school's all-time list, Smith has no qualms about taking on the double-teams Jarrett frequently sees.

"I'm expecting a little bit more attention, but luckily we've got a lot of other guys who can take that pressure off me,'' Smith said. "And if they try to get on me, double-cover like they try to do Dwayne, PT will be open.

"But I want that. I want to show that I can go out there and make plays with two guys on me, with three guys on me. It's a challenge I'm willing to take...

Also, Jarrett won't make trip - OC Register

Mays has earned trust of his coach - Seattle Times
One year ago, Taylor Mays was starting for O'Dea High School against Bishop Blanchet.

On Saturday, the free safety will start for USC at Washington State on national television.

It will be Mays' third start of the season for the third-ranked Trojans...

...Mays said coach Pete Carroll approached him early in the week of the Nebraska game and said, "We think you're ready and we trust you."

Mays has responded with two solid performances against the Cornhuskers and Arizona...

Also, Youth serves USC's juggernaut defense - Daily Breeze
Up in the air - Daily Trojan

Hancock may play in bowl - LA Daily News
Could USC fullback Brandon Hancock return for a bowl game?

It's a thought being considered because the senior is making a fast recovery after tearing knee ligaments last month.

"I'd like to suit up, run a play and maybe catch a ball," Hancock said. "If the trainers feel I can, it might be cool."

Hancock said he rides an exercise bike 20 miles a day and suffers no pain or atrophy in his knee since the operation.

"It's been a freakish recovery," he said.

USC coach Pete Carroll said he's discussed the possibility...

More of the same - LA Daily News
...There was a general impression last season that operating USC's offense was about as difficult as playing a video game, with coaches merely required to press the right buttons with two Heisman Trophy winners.

It's not an idea endorsed by USC coach Pete Carroll, who thinks the Trojans could fall apart just as easily as some of college football's other dynasties, the most recent example being Miami.

"Heck yeah, we could," Carroll said. "It's a finely tuned instrument. It's not just the players or coaches. It's both."

But in the eyes of skeptics, this year would be a truer test for offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin, quarterbacks coach Steve Sarkisian and even Carroll, who keeps a firm hand over the offense...

McFoy Eager to Fill Void - LA Times
...McFoy, 23, is looking forward to an opportunity he almost gave up.

Last January...McFoy decided he was through with football.

Though he can play with finesse, McFoy is known for a physical style. It served him well as a blocker but left him with myriad sprains, strains and bruises.

"I was thinking, 'My body's been through a lot,' " he said. "I didn't think a fifth year would help."

McFoy avoided conditioning workouts and contemplated how he would utilize his economics degree. Ultimately, he decided to return.

"I don't think I was ready for the real world," he said...

Ex-Colt star Havili upbeat despite injury - Deseret News
College football has brought Stanley Havili success, fame and serious injury. But it doesn't seem to have changed him much.

Havili, who had his first start ever at fullback for the USC Trojans in their 20-3 win Saturday over PAC-10 rival Arizona, had four receptions for 24 yards. He has been starting on special teams. The Salt Lake west-side resident graduated last year from Cottonwood High.

But he may not play again for a while. Near the end of the third quarter in Trojans' win, Havili was leveled and stayed down after catching a pass for about a four-yard gain. When he was carried from the field, ABC-TV play-by-play announcer Tim Brants told viewers the player "has a sore left leg."...

Holt’s return to USC mutually beneficial - Tacoma News-Tribune
When Pete Carroll wants something, he’s not afraid to twist a few arms to get it.

What Carroll wanted in February was for Nick Holt to return to the University of Southern California and become the Trojans’ defensive coordinator. No matter that Holt had just quit his job as coach at Idaho to take a position with the St. Louis Rams under good friend and new coach Scott Linehan.

“We heard he was on his way to the NFL and when that happened, we tracked him down and tried to make him an offer he couldn’t refuse,” Carroll said.

Carroll, in an effort to convince Holt he belonged at USC, even appealed to Holt’s wife and two sons. The powerful pitch worked...

Also, Both Trojans and Cougars rush to excel - Tacoma News-Tribune

Fred Davis: Time to shine - OC Register
...With the team down to its fourth-string fullback, Booty's options are drying up.

It might be the right time for tight end Fred Davis to begin fulfilling his vast potential...Davis could spend some time at fullback in an attempt by USC's coaches to integrate him more fully into the offense...

...Unlike some USC players, who have balked at the idea of playing the unglamorous fullback position, Davis said he is willing to move. He lined up there a few times last year.

"I went from receiver to tight end, so I definitely don't mind,"...

WR Jarrett isn't in the clear yet - LA Daily News
USC wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett is not expected to be cleared to play in Saturday's game against Washington State, according to sources.

Jarrett, who sprained his shoulder against Arizona, appeared at the beginning of Wednesday's practice but did not participate in any drills before departing early.

He told USC coach Pete Carroll he wants to play but is not expected to make it back...

..."He's still pretty sore," Carroll said. "It's day-to-day."

The news was better for cornerback Kevin Thomas, who returned from a sprained ankle and practiced well enough to play...

Bradford Makes the Move Back to Safety - LA Times
Allen Bradford, one of the most prominent members of USC's stellar 2006 recruiting class, came to the Trojans as a safety.

He moved to tailback during training camp, but on Wednesday the 6-foot, 230-pound freshman from Colton returned to the secondary, passing up an opportunity to play fullback for an offense especially thin at that position.

"I just wanted to play defense," Bradford said.

Bradford was behind fellow freshman tailbacks Emmanuel Moody and C.J. Gable and junior Chauncey Washington, who appears to be working through the hamstring problems that precipitated Bradford's move to offense...

Also, Bradford Back to Safety - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise

Trojans Make 9-Year-Old Big Man On Campus - KNBC-TV
The smallest participant in the University of Southern California football team's practice Wednesday was treated like the big man on campus.

Sean O'Donoghue, 9, had a heart transplant when he was 4 years old.

The Make-A-Wish Foundation organized the Trojan fan's campus visit. The third-grader met the football players and coach Pete Carroll.

He said his favorite part of the day was "putting on the helmet."...

Video here.

[Simpson] UA can build off solid play against USC - Tucson Citizen
Moral victories are for losers. Arizona can't afford to be pleased with that loss to Southern California.

Just the same, the beast didn't feast...

...Like Goths on heavy horses, the Cardinal and Gold defenders trample everything in sight. It's a tough, talented, absolutely amazing USC football team, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

And yet, until Mike Thomas fumbled a fair catch on a punt at the Arizona 9-yard line...the Wildcats had a shot at an earthshaking upset.

No, it wasn't likely to happen. But, yes, it could have.

Also, Cats got turnovers from USC - Tucson Citizen
LSU has edge over Southern California - Tucson Citizen
Cason glows in spotlight during battle with Jarrett - Tucson Citizen
UA football: Between the lines - Tucson Citizen
[DeMarco] Some thoughts on the USC game - Arizona Daily Star

USC still too strong - Arizona Daily Star
...The Wildcats missed...Blocks....Pass attempts...Tackles...Punts...

...The Wildcats (2-2, 0-1 Pac-10) missed the biggest thing of all: a chance to make a statement.

"I thought we'd have a great opportunity," Stoops said. "I like playing them. They make you do everything right."

Arizona's defense played nearly perfect ball against the Trojans (3-0, 1-0 Pac-10) early on...

...Arizona gained just eight first downs, with only two coming via the run.

Also, [Hansen] Looking on the bright side - Arizona Daily Star
Defense gives USC a fight, but Trojans pull away - Tucson Citizen
[Simpson] Nice effort from Cats against too-strong USC - Tucson Citizen

The 'D' still piles it on - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
Get used to it, USC fans. You're in for a different kind of ride with this Trojans team.

"It's not as pretty as we'd like it," senior center Ryan Kalil said of the third-ranked Trojans' 20-3 victory over Arizona...

...Not only was this one not very pretty, but it also wasn't anything like those offensive-minded USC teams of recent years made happen, with three Heisman Trophy winners in four years. Only by the barest of margins did the Trojans manage to extend their streak of scoring 20 points or more to a nation's-best 55 games.

"We haven't been in a game like this," USC coach Pete Carroll said with a grin...

Also, Clawing to victory - Daily Trojan
Defense Propels USC Past Arizona - LA Times
[Markazi] Linebackers could make USC's D something special - CNNSI

Moody is right way for USC to be - OC Register
...Take away Moody, and the biggest USC gain of the night was a 22-yard reception by Chris McFoy. And none of the other tailbacks broke loose for anything longer than a 10-yarder.

As terrific as the defense played, this game would have ended 13-3 had Arizona's Mike Thomas not fumbled away a punt late in the fourth quarter to set up a 9-yard Moody touchdown run.

Offensively, the final period was all about Moody...

..."He showed us his big-play ability tonight," Carroll said. "We hoped this would be a breakout game for him."...

Also, Moody Fast Improving - Inland Empire Press-Enterprise
Keys to the Game - LA Times

Havili suffers leg break - LA Daily News
USC's injury-ravaged fullback spot took another hit when freshman starter Stanley Havili sufffered a cracked fibula and will be out 4-5 weeks.

That leaves former walk-on Mike Brittingham and Jody Adewale as the remaining fullbacks.

Linebacker Luthur Brown will probably move over to fullback this week, and there's always a chance tailback Allen Bradford could move...

...Havili is the third starting fullback to get injured, following season-ending injuries to Brandon Hancock and Ryan Powdrell...

Also, Broken Leg Will Sideline Havili - LA Times