October 2008 Archives

USC sprinter Bryshon Nellum, the 2007 Gatorade national boys' track and field athlete of the year, was shot in the legs three times Friday morning during a Halloween party, according to police.
Nellum was shot in the left thigh and right hamstring and underwent surgery Friday night at California Hospital Medical Center in Los Angeles. Two bullets hit Nellum's thigh and one hit his hamstring. Doctors said surgery was successful and were hopeful Nellum could resume his track career, according to USC track coach Ron Allice.
Nellum, 19, attended a party at Leonardo's restaurant on Vermont Ave., a few blocks away from USC. Police said Nellum was shot near the conclusion of the party.
No arrests were made, according to Sgt. Robin Brown of the Los Angeles Police Dept. Southwest Division office.

We asked Mitch Mustain what he thought caused the offense's recent woes.
``It's a lot of things, who knows?'' Mustain said. ``There's big reasons, small reasons. It's a tough one to answer, to be honest.''

Let's say USC leads Washington 42-0 at halftime at Saturday. Can the Trojans do away with the nonsense of twoo weeks ago when Mark Sanchez needed to play the first series of the second half? Wouldn't it better to give Aaron Corp a rare run out to get some quality snaps? Not to mention Mitch Mustain? And maybe Marc Tyler, who is healthy, could get in before the final six minutes.

If you have never gone to the USC campus before a football game, tomorrow is the one game to do it. There will be booths on campus featuring many of the USC sports teams, including women's basketball, baseball, golf and track. Most booths will be between Tommy Trojan and Exposition Blvd.

In case you missed it, Kevin Ellison has torn cartilage in his right knee and will have arthroscopic surgery early next week. He will sidelined 2-to-4 weeks.

In one of those great USC administrative decisions, last night's Homecoming rally was not held outdoors. Instead it was held at the Galen Center. Check that, not even the Galen Center but one of its practice gyms. It had all the atmosphere of a bad high school rally.

Here's where to ask football questions only. One question per person please.

This is for Song Girl questions only.

Time to pick the score against another 43-point underdog.

USC spent this week examing its offense, which averages 38 points per game but scored 21 points or less in three of its past five games.

``He does some things that make your jaw drop.''
-- USC guard Dwight Lewis on freshman DeMar DeRozan

A couple highly regarded out-of-state prospects visit USC this weekend. Linebackers Jarvis Jones of Columbus, Ga., and Frankie Telfort of Miami, Fla., will attend the Washington game.
Jones (6-foot-3, 226 pounds) is rated the 44th-best player in the nation by Rivals.com and second-best athlete in the country at the position. Telfort (5-11, 197) is rated the fourth-best outside linebacker in the nation and 69th-best player overall.

Safety Kevin Ellison injured his knee and the extent of the injury is not known.
``I don't know what happened. My knee hurts right now,'' Ellison said.
Ellison is getting an MRI tonight to determine the extent of the injury.

``It's easy to say you're trying too hard but it isn't always easy to stop it. If we catch a few balls and the running game to the tight-end side was a little better, we'd come out really good.''
-- offensive line coach Pat Ruel

The USC Alumni Association just sent out an email that offered a $5 discount on pictures of something at homecoming. Now if we only knew how much they cost and what the picture is for?

``November 1 - University Park Campus
Join us on campus at 11:30 a.m. for the ultimate Trojan Family get-together before the Trojans take on the Huskies at 3:30. Come to the Alumni Association booth at Tommy Trojan to get your souvenir Kodak photo ($5 discount to alumni with membership card), spin the Prize Wheel, pick up great giveaways, enter our Trojan Tradition raffle and learn about the many benefits of your lifelong membership in the USC Alumni Association.''

A reader sent in an email to express his frustration with the idea that inexperience is a reason for QB inconsistency.
``I didn't see it when Chad Henne took Michigan to the Rose Bowl as a freshman . . . and a just-out-of-high school freshman. Or (Texas quarterback) Colt McCoy, a true freshman who did have the value of spring training.''

USC was picked third in the Pac-10 basketball preseason poll.

USC safety Taylor Mays had two impressive hits on Arizona tailback Keola Antolin and knocked Antolin out of the game in the second quarter, probably one of the biggest moments in the contest.
But there appeared to be a source for his motivation.
``I like to hit guys hard so if Lauren Conrad and I ever go on a date, she will feel protected,'' Mays said.

Yesterday we focused on how Pete Carroll called the Pac-10 about how few penalties USC opponents received this season. The flip side of that is the Trojans average 73 yards in penalties per game, which is the second-highest mark in the conference.

USC ranks ninth in the Pac-10 in red-zone offense, scoring 78 percent of the time. Even Washington State, which scores 79 percent of the time, is ahead of the Trojans.

Oregon State is the only Pac-10 team that controls its destiny. But Coach Mike Riley continues to downplay it.
"I guess it's a real thing, but I never dwell on that. It leads to those long-term thing,'' Riley said. ``If you do this and this and this, then you can do this, and this and this. If you lose a game, it pulls the rug out from under you and you have to start all over.''

You know USC has time on its hands when Caesar has time to do an interview with satellite radio show hosts Gary Danielson and Jack Arute. Here's his views on the BCS.

Why are USC's tailbacks tired?

It's homecoming on Saturday, which is a good enough reason to run a picture of Tricia Pillsbury.

Rookie O.J. Mayo made 5 of 20 shots, going 0 for 7 from the 3-point line, and finished with 10 points in his NBA debut, as Memphis lost to Houston, 82-71.

Freshman linebacker Chris Galippo said he was unaware he committed a late hit against Arizona last weekend.
``I was in a zone,'' Galippo said. ``I didn't realize what I did until after I heard the ref.''

Pete Carroll said he was not sure who would start at right tackle. Nick Howell started against Arizona but was pulled after the fourth series in favor of previous starter Butch Lewis.
``There's a good chance Nick will start again,'' Carroll said.

Tailback Joe McKnight, was not 100 percent last week, enjoyed his best practice of the week. Still wondering why he went to Washington State if he was not fully healthy the following week against Arizona.
Wide receiver Damian Williams is not participating in contact until game day. Defensive end Everson Griffen did not finish practice Wednesday, bothered by a sore toe.
UPDATED: Griffen actually had an upset stomach. We went with Caesar's explanation above.

Former USC baseball player Geoff Jenkins (Philadelphia Phillies) became the 14th Trojan to be a member of a World Series champion. He is the third player coached by Mike Gillespie to win a World Series, joining pitcher Anthony Reyes and Randy Flores (St Louis Cardinals, 2006).

We told you earlier about the new restaurant called McKay's that is named after former coach John McKay. How long till someone opens Caesar's?

A few more questions trickled in and we're answering them.

The candidates most thrown about right now for the Washington job are Gary Pinkel, Lane Kiffin and Dave Christensen (Missouri offensive coordinator and a former UW player in the early 80s),

This weekend, the restaurant next to the Radisson Hotel is supposed to re-open under the name, ``McKay's'' in tribute to former USC coach John McKay. Pictures and memorabilia from the McKay are supposed to decorate the establishment.

Do crowd taunts affect performance? A reader wants to know.

USC coach Pete Carroll spoke to the Pac-10 about the fact USC committed 10 penalties while Arizona committed only one.

So many questions it spilled into a three-day process.

Safety Will Harris played more than usual against Arizona because cornerback Josh Pinkard injured his foot in the second half and Pete Carroll decided to play with a third safety.

Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said he has not been contacted by anyone from Washington today. Former offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin's name keeps floating around as a candidate, but there's been nothing concrete yet.

Nose tackle Averell Spicer (nose tackle) is not expected to play this week. Wide receiver Damian Williams took part in some early practice drills but left early and is seeing doctors. Vidal Hazelton stubbed his toe and did not practice today.

Looks like you can buy tickets to Saturday's ``sold out'' game. These are probably unsold Washington seats.

A question here about Vidal Hazelton, who played Saturday and will now be unable to redshirt.

Here's a rather short Tuesday press conference with Pete Carroll.

Is anyone going to be fooled by a strong offensive performance this weekend against another lousy team that the ``problems were solved?''

Time to ask a question for you know who. Deadline is 3 p.m. Thursday.

Questions about both of your favorite topics here.

Back to the grind.

There was still plenty of blame to go around Monday at USC.

Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said he was interested in the Washington job but had not heard from the school.
"It's a great place," Sarkisian said. "If they called, I'd have to assess it. I don't know what they think about me."
Former USC assistant and ex-Raiders coach Lane Kiffin is also believed to be interested in the position.

Wide receiver Jordan Cameron said he will also play basketball and join the team after the conclusion of the football season.

A local TV station sent out a camera crew to practice today and threw out a provocative question to Mark Sanchez and Pete Carroll.
``I heard Mitch Mustain is staring this week?'' the young reporter said.
Carroll immediately looked at me but I couldn't take credit for it (this is the part where I mention Carroll was joking by looking at me because so many people miss the irony of these situations). Sanchez also joked I had planted the question but my reach only goes that far on issues as serious as the Song Girls.
For the record, Carroll said again today that there is no quarterback controversy.

Wide receiver Damian Williams will probably practice without contact all week because his sore shoulder is bothering him. Williams said he was hit on the shoulder ``like 900 times'' during the Arizona game.
Nose tackle Averell Spicer missed practice with a sprained ankle and wore a boot Monday. Defensive end Everson Griffen missed practice because he had a toe nail removed.

Someone asked about Josh Tatum. He is interested in returning to USC but as of now, it is not clear if USC would return that interest.

The Western Athletic Conference and Poinsettia Bowl officials announced a contingency agreement that will affect the 2008 and '09 bowl games. The contract stipulates that if the bowl's agreement with the Pacific-10 Conference does not yield a bowl eligible team (six or more wins), then the bowl will get a team from the Western Athletic Conference in either or both years.

Not that it matters, but Ty Willingham was fired today but will coach the rest of the season. Does this mean the Huskies will now be 50-point underdogs against USC?

Can anyone identify what USC's philosophy or purpose is offensively?

Did you see the rumors the 49ers were interested in Condoleeza Rice (denied, of course)? Rice actually interviewed Pete Carroll for the Stanford job years ago when she worked there.

We're on record pace right now for answering questions.

Back to Song Girl questions.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez was honored today as a semifinalists for the Davey O'Brien Award. Apparently they didn't watch the Arizona game.

This segment is football-only again. I forgot to mention last night that Pete Carroll said he was unconcerned about sideline interference penalties. I can think of at least three games where USC received them. But maybe he isn't concerned because he's more worried about the state of the offense.

Warning: Only song girl questions in this segment to make it easier for readers who do not want to read them.

Here we go with the first segment, which will focus only on football questions.

USC coach Pete Carroll spent quite a bit of time discussing the offense and Mark Sanchez last night.

Here's the grades for the victory in Tucson.

The Trojans' slow starts caused Pete Carroll to show a little emotion when discussing it tonight.
``We're trying our (butts) off,'' he said.

Pete Carroll is upset again about the penalties. Or the refs calling USC for 10 while Arizona committed just one.
``It's amazing how poor we are compared to our opponents,'' he said.

Pete Carroll was asked tonight if there was any chance he would make a change at quarterback.
``Uh Uh. Mark's still way ahead of the other guys,'' he said.

October is never the time to talk about January, but I could not help but mention the number of negative comments I heard from fans at Arizona Stadium and even the airport about not wanting to go to another Rose Bowl. I even heard some song girls were grumbling about the idea.

Between 2002-2005, the Trojans scored at least 30 points in 27 of 32 Pac-10 games, including a streak of 15 straight times.
Between 2006-2008, USC broke the 30-point barrier in just six of 22 Pac-10 games.

USC remained fifth despite dropping in the human polls. So the ugly performance against Arizona does not hurt . . . for now.

There was a lot of talk last week about new starters and the competiton on the offensive line. And yet, in the end, things solidified quite naturally.
Offensive lineman Butch Lewis entered the game in the fourth series and did not leave the game. Zack Heberer also entered inthe fourth series but starter Alex Parsons returned in the fifth series and did not return.

We often discuss the idea of hiring a special teams coach. At least then we would know who to ask how it is possible that a USC player returned a punt out of the end zone? That is not even a play you might excuse at the high-school level. But at USC it is stunning.

Here's this week's Top 25 ballot for the AP poll.

Pete Carroll on the punt return at the end of the game.
``Of course, you're holding your breath,'' Carroll said. ``Unfortunately, that was more drama than we needed.''
Credit Clay Matthews for the final tackle.

If you did not ask a question in the Open Forum, you can ask one here. One question per person please.

``It was ugly. The offense did well at times and sputtered at times.''
-- USC quarterback Mark Sanchez

``I think we left a good opportunity out there and I was shocked that we couldn't play better offensively.''
-- Arizona coach Mike Stoops

Here's the explanations for the worst call of the night, the third-and-seven run that lost two yards and forced USC to punt.
``We were trying to make yards and wanted to go for it on fourth down,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said.
Said offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian: ``We were planning to go for it on fourth down and get yards and I thought we called a good run.''

How many sideline interference penalties does USC need to receive this season?
It wasn't enough that the coaches drew a penalty in the Arizona State game.
But nothing compared to the penalty on the game's final play tonight. If Arizona had one more second, they would have gotten one more play to tie the game. The flag was thrown because cannot control themselves down on the sideline and spill on to the field. Amazing.

``All in all, this game featured a lot of coaching. In such a tight contest, it came down to a lot of big decisions.''
-- USC coach Pete Carroll

On this point, we agree.

It was sloppy and ugly at times. But it was a victory. But the playcalling was extremely suspect. Running on 3rd and 7? Passing on first down with 5:55 left? Punting with 23 seconds left on the play clock on the same possession?

No idea why USC ran on 3rd and 7 at Arizona's 38 for a loss of 2 yards.

It sure seemed like in the first half USC's playcalling tried to force passes when a run or short pass to the tight end or fullback would suffice.

Mark Sanchez redeems himself by finding a wide-open Stanley Havili for a 30-yard TD. Stafon Johnson's block on Nate Ness makes the play possible.

Mark Sanchez fumbles and that sets up Nic Grigsby's five-yard TD run. Turnovers from the QB position are a problem.

Stafon Johnson scored on a 2-yard run with 5:03 left in the half. Or did he? Who can tell with the lousy Fox Sports camera angles.

The Wildcats tie it up on a 30-yard field goal. Strange series as Arizona blatantly commits a late hit at the 1-yard line that probably erased a likely TD. Kevin Ellison then got lucky and was not called for pass interference on third down.

Nick Howell, who had 22 knockdowns against Washington State, got called for holding on a 32-yard run by Stanley Havili on fourth-and-1. The Trojans were forced to punt and Greg Woidneck shanked it.

Mark Sanchez's first interception of the night does not hurt USC as the defense stops Arizona. Maybe meetings with NFL advisors should be put on hold.

We're on the air. The Arizona student section is extremely loud tonight. The Trojans took a 3-0 lead after Stafon Johnson's 54-yard punt return and some unimpressive playcalling on the opening drive.

Willie Tuitama leaves the pocket and relies on his speed to mix up the Trojans' defense. Tiny running back Keola Antonin comes close to emulating Oregon State tailback Jacquizz Rodgers. The Wildcats forget they have not played a good team all season. Mike Stoops coaches like someone other than Mike Stoops.

Pure athletic superiority counts for anything. USC's linebackers are able to cover tight end Rob Gronkowski. Quarterback Mark Sanchez does not have one of his ``Arizona State'' moments. Tailback Joe McKnight does not fumble. Pete Carroll does not go into a zone-defense cocoon because this is an alleged big game by Pac-10 standards

What other program in the nation could lose two starting offensive linemen (Butch Lewis, Zack Heberer) and have the replacements (Nick Howell, Alex Parsons) win the position outright?

Tucson is considered Ground Zero in Pete Carroll lore.

Willie Tuitama perfectly fits the profile of a quarterback who gives traditionally give USC problems with his mobility, except for one thing: Arizona does not let him run.
Tuitama's rushed 21 times in seven games but those are mainly sacks or avoiding sacks. Even Pete Carroll alluded to it this week.
``He can throw on the move but he doesn't do much of that,'' Carroll said.

Time to predict this week's game. Will USC rout Arizona? Will the Wildcats play like they did last year against Oregon? Can a team that lose to New Mexico beat USC?
Prediction: USC 34, Arizona 17.

Will USC go into a zone-defense cocoon because Arizona is supposedly a tough opponent and Pete Carroll will not want to give up the big play against the Wildcats.

Vidal Hazelton is medically cleared to play against Arizona. It's worth watching to see if he plays Saturday because he enters the game for one play, he cannot redshirt this season.

One of the big national prospects that USC is pursuing is Andre Debose of Sanford, Fla. The Trojans are believed to be one of his five finalists. But what's interesting is USC wants Debose to play tailback while Florida wants Debose to be a wide receiver and play a role similar to Percy Harvin.

There are now such things a mid-season All-American teams. Fili Moala and Kevin Ellison made this list.

Here's this week's installment of Pete Carroll answering a reader's question.

Later today we'll have the latest installment of that ever-popular feature, Ask Caesar.

Butch Lewis talks about being the backup right tackle.

It is the halfway mark of the season, so time for some analysis.

There's just something unseemly about turning a 69-0 victory over a beleaguered opponent into a sales opportunity. If Stanford sells T-shirts about beating USC, so be it.
But USC does not tie sales to blowouts over helpless teams. Or wear black socks. Or wear names on uniforms. And yes, I'm well aware of where the proceeds go, which is not the point.
As John Robinson used to tell players who celebrated touchdowns excessively, ``act like you've been there before.''

The figure of $2,039,321 for the baseball program last week is the program's operating expenditures for last year, including facility improvements and construction (i.e. one-time costs for new scoreboard, construction) along with travel, etc. That figure does not include recruiting expenses, scholarship costs or salaries.
The recruiting figure is not broken out individually by sports but the cost for all sports was $971,767.

Stafon Johnson will return punts against Arizona. Johnson and Joe McKnight took turns returning punts in practice Thursday but Johnson is No. 1.

Damian Williams and Joe McKnight practiced and are cleared for the Arizona game. Williams sprained the AC joint in his shoulder. A more severe version sidelined Dwayne Jarrett a couple years ago. Williams will wear padding on his shoulder but said he is otherwise OK.

Offensive linemen Nick Howell and Alex Parsons will start again this week with Butch Lewis and Zack Heberer expected to play early. An exact rotation has not been determined yet. Thomas Herring has a knee injury and did not practice. He is not expected to make the trip.

Christian Tupou remains No. 1 with Averell Spicer fighting off freshman Jurrell Casey for playing time. Spicer's been unable to regain his stature after getting benched following the Oregon State game, when he had two personal fouls.

Should USC be concerned that it only defeated Arizona 20-3 and 20-13 the past two seasons? Or does it simply mean the Wildcats cannot get to the level needed to pull off an upset?

Cornerback Shareece Wright will undergo a CT scan next week on his neck but it's pretty much a foregone conclusion he will redshirt this season. Cornerback Cary Harris is expected to play against Arizona after resting his sore hamstring earlier in the week.

Some players wore eye shades under their helmets in practice this week, even though they are not allowed in games. One coach told us it's a tradeoff for players who were disappointed they did not get to wear black socks for the Arizona State game.

USC safety Taylor Mays endorsed the photo we ran here a couple weeks ago with the Oregon cheerleaders.
``I saw that,'' Mays said. ``I liked it.''

Here's a BCS ranking where Oregon is No. 2 and USC does not figure.

Oregon State coach Mike Riley did not want to be identified as a potential frontrunner for the Pac-10 title this week.
"It's too early to be a frontrunner,'' Riley said. ``I think it's all jumbled up."

Here's assistant coach Todd McNair on the decision to take Joe McKnight to Washington State last weekend.
``I don't think he was close (to playing). He was trying to gut it out,'' McNair said. ``It was good for him to be on the sidelines cheering the other running backs on.''

If you would rather wait until after the game, you can ask a question in the Weekend Forum. One question per person please.

Linebacker Chris Galippo admits coming back from two operations is tougher than he thought.

This 2001 USC-Arizona game is generally considered as the turning point of Pete Carroll's first season, as the Trojans won 41-34 after blowing a 31-10 lead. That's current graduate-assistant Kris Richard, without the helmet, trying to make a tackle in the game. Richard returned an interception 58 yards for the winning touchdown with 1:50 left.

Wide receiver Damian Williams sprained his right shoulder during practice and wore a sling on his arm as a precautionary measure tonight.
``I'm not missing the game, I don't care what anybody says,'' Williams said.

Tailback Joe McKnight said he expects to play Saturday but the coaches are less certain and will wait until tomorrow's practice to make a decision.
``If he can do stuff tomorrow and Friday, it will be a bonus for us if he can play,'' offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said.
``We're hoping,'' running backs coach Todd McNair said.
Stanley Havili practiced without problems along with Vidal Hazelton. Fili Moala sprained his ankle but is expected to be OK.

Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford has at least one 40-yard completion in six straight games.

Long-snapper Chris Pousson made a quicker-than-expected recovery from a virus and is back at practice.

Freshman defensive end Malik Jackson's flipped over to the other defensive end spot behind Kyle Moore with Gerald Washington out with a sprained ankle.

There are plenty of tickets available for the USC-Arizona game, starting at $44 according to StubHub.com.

Here's a look at the motley collection of quarterbacks USC faced in the first half of the season. Just another chapter under the title, ``Caesar's Luck.''

Virginia: Peter Lalich -- transferred to Oregon State.
Ohio State: Todd Boeckman -- benched.
Oregon State: Lyle Moevao -- starter.
Oregon: Jeremiah Masoli -- No. 3 quarterback before season.
Arizona State: Rudy Carpenter -- played hurt, replaced.
Washington State: Kevin Lopina -- Missed several games with injury before USC game.

If you are campus today, song girl tryouts will be held at the Lyon Center at 3 p.m.

Time to ask a question for Pete Carroll. Deadline is 3 p.m. Thursday.

We hear that former Stanford athletic director Ted Leland is a frontrunner to become the next commissioner of the Pac-10.

One of Pete Carroll's friends, who advises college players on the NFL, met with Mark Sanchez's family this week.

USC center Kris O'Dowd said he lives five minutes from Arizona Stadium in Tucson.
``I'm a Trojan now but I definitely root for them silently,'' O'Dowd said.

Tailback Marc Tyler will be out another week with a pulled thigh muscle. He hopes to return next week.

Joe McKnight participated in some of Tuesday's practice but was held out of some parts by trainers as a precautionary measure. He said he still feels some soreness on the side of his foot but will play against Arizona.
Vidal Hazelton practiced and took a hit even though the coaches did not want him to face any contact. He will see a doctor tonight but is expected to be cleared to play.
Stanley Havili is nursing a sore ankle which might be an issue. Zack Heberer said he is about 95 percent but is now fighting to regain his spot from Alex Parsons.

Here's a question about where to get media guide information.

Here's Arizona coach Mike Stoops' quotes from today's press conference.

Here's Pete Carroll's press conference quotes.

Answers, answers, answers.

One football, one song girl question. Some balance.

A question about whether USC can win the national title.

A segment without Song Girl questions!

Questions about redshirting and who played in the Washington State game.

What would happen if Virginia tried to get out of its game with USC? A reader wants to know.

Back to the Open Forum answer grind.

USC coach Pete Carroll did not want to address any questions regarding the San Francisco 49ers.

Joe McKnight wore a tinted eye shield under his helmet Monday but NCAA rules forbid him from wearing it in games. USC plays Arizona at 7:15 p.m. and McKnight's complained about lights causing migraine headaches, so it could be an issue again.

Offensive line coach Pat Ruel said Nick Howell, who appears to be ahead of former starter Butch Lewis at right tackle, is not the only possible change for this week.
```I told (left tackle) Charles Brown if he doesn't get his hands up and get more physical, Tyron Smith is creeping up on him,'' Ruel said. ``We need our level of play to keep rising.
``I'm like a general. Either you're marching to war or you're on the sideline.''

Lots of players returned to practice today. Joe McKnight said he is 90 percent but anticipates playing in the game. Vidal Hazelton also practiced although he said he is not officially cleared.
Butch Lewis is back from a stomach virus but it looks like Nick Howell is in the lead to start at tackle. Zack Heberer also returned but is currently behind Alex Parsons. Howell said he had 22 knockdowns after a second review of the game films today.
``Nick is more physical than Butch,'' offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said. ``Butch is more athletic.''

This segment features our CaesarTV question of the week which goes to the sharpest question.

There are nine remaining undefeated teams among FBS squads through games of Oct. 19, the highest number ever in the initial week of the BCS standings.

I forgot to ask Alyssa Milano yesterday if she would join the selection committee for the song girls.

USC remains a co-favorite with 3-1 odds to make the BCS title game according to Bodog.

Looks like snapper Chris Pousson (illness) could still be out this week.

Looks like a decision should be made this week on Shareece Wright's redshirt status.

You ask, we answer. What a concept!

Media columnist Tom Hoffarth says he had the misfortune of listening to Saturday's game.

A theory floated here about Soft-Servegate being a diversion.

As long as we're mentioning who played at the end of the game, maybe walk-on Joe Houston should have kicked the 69th point against Washington State to see his first action.

The game will kickoff at 3:30 p.m. and be televised on FSN.

This forum strangely started out with mostly football questions.

Time to answer questions. But before we do, let's go back to last night. Did USC really need to put C.J. Gable back in the game for the last touchdown if Broderick Green was tired? Where were Adam Goodman? D.J. Shoemate? Stanley Havili? And why was Green tired anyways? As John McKay said, ``The ball's not that heavy.''

Here's the grades from Saturday's game.

Pete Carroll talked about how he doesn't like talking about the BCS rankings.

``Obviously Arizona is playing great football and the crowd will matter. We'll have an enormous challenge. They transitioned from losing a lot of defensive starters and their defensive (stats) are great.''
-- USC coach Pete Carroll

USC's game against Arizona is the Trojans' final game in October. Why does that matter? Because Pete Carroll is 23-0 in November.

Pete Carroll just talked about why C.J. Gable came in and scored the final touchdown at the end of the Washington State game.
``Broderick (Green) was gassed and we didn't have anyone else,'' Carroll said. ``He had to come out and missed a touchdown run.''

Offensive tackle Nick Howell had 18 knockdowns against Washington State. USC coach Pete Carroll said Sunday night that Howell will play at right tackle even if Butch Lewis returns from a virus.

Too many people keep asking why C.J. Gable scored USC's last touchdown with 2:16 remaining Saturday. Personally, it would have been a nice time for reserve fullback Adam Goodman to get a chance to score a touchdown (or even Stanley Havili) but we'll see what Pete Carroll says.

This is for anyone who did not submit a question in the Open Forum. One question per person.

Alyssa Milano on my flight back home today. Who says the Washington State road trip is the worst one of the season?

The first rankings came out this afternoon and USC is fifth. And now for some ``expert'' commentary from Fox analyst Barry Switzer.
"I wouldn't be surprised if it's not Florida vs. Texas (in the BCS Championship game).'' he said.

Which young player (besides Broderick Green) who normally does not play impressed you against Washington State?

And we have a new No. 1 in this week's Associated Press ballot.

This might be USC's first rout where it felt sorry for the opponent.

Tailback Broderick Green never expected his big day.

Nick Howell played the entire game at tackle filling in for Butch Lewis.
``It was fun,'' Howell said. ``I think we were physically dominant.''

Today's USC game was not a scrimmage. Those are harder. Mark Sanchez was asked if this resembled a scrimmage and being diplomatic, only said, ``I can't say.''
But never threw for 253 yards and five touchdowns in a scrimmage.

That would be Anthony McCoy's 21-yard touchdown reception from Mark Sanchez in the second quarter.
``I broke the first tackle and was hit and kept going, so I thought, `I'm taking it to the house,' '' McCoy said. ``To be honest, I didn't even know I was capable of doing that.''

The attendance of 25,118 was the smallest for a USC game since the 2001 Vegas Bowl, which drew 30,894.
Updated: Before getting down on Wazzu fans, the 1987 USC-Washington State game at the Coliseum drew just 24,834 in a game that was played in a downpour.

Pete Carroll on going for it on fourth down with a 62-0 lead in the fourth quarter.
``I think the opposite of people who think you should kick the field goal right there. We're going for it, we're just running the football, just trying to make a first down, if we can, if not we give them the football.
``I think kicking field goals is the wrong way to do it. I know I was getting yelled at from the fans.''

USC's outscored its opponents 138-0 since the second half of the Oregon game. Washington State's four first downs were the fewest since Notre Dame had four in 2002.

Can anyone name a worse team USC's played in the Pete Carroll era?

Cornerback Cary Harris pulled his hamstring and did not play in the second half but it is not believed to be serious. Defensive end Gerald Washington sprained his ankle and said he would be OK.

Pete Carroll admitted he got uncomfortable in the first half trying to figure out how to handle this game because it got out of hand so early.
``It was a little uncomfortable to see what was going to happen,'' Carroll said. ``I didn't know how much we were going to score and what was going to happen with the game. I didn't know what to do. I wanted us to play football. I wanted to leave our guys out there to get their playing time and get well and get right and I wanted everyone to play.
``And all of those things happened, but I was just concerned, I didn't want the score to go up any higher than it had to.''

USC had three tailbacks gain 100 yards each today. Broderick Green had 121, Stafon Johnson 112 and C.J. Gable 109. The last time this happened was in 1977 against Stanford. Here's those stats:

Charles White 11- 5-1977 Stanford Home 16-126
Dwight Ford 11- 5-1977 Stanford Home 11-124
Mosi Tatupu 11- 5-1977 Stanford Home 13-101

If it seemed like Washington State just wanted to get the game over with and run out the clock from the first play, it did.
``A huge goal was to come out of the game healthy,'' Cougars coach Paul Wulff said. ``We wanted to do everything we could to shorten the game and protect our quarterback.''

OK, the game isn't officially over but it's 62-0. Everyone gets to play, especially Broderick Green. And some teams might lose that play real games today, so it's a win-win situation.

It looks like Cary Harris is wearing his warmups. No word in the pressbox if he got hurt. Joe McKnight's riding an exercise bike to keep busy.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez took off his knee brace and is icing his knee, so it looks like Mitch Mustain will come in the next series.

Drew McAllister, Chris Galillpo, T.J. Bryant, Armond Armstead, Daniel Harper and Will Harris are playing for the defense.

This is something at stake right now. Washington State has not been shut out since 1984, a span of 280 games. It is the second-longest active streak in the nation, trailing only Michigan.

No USC QB ever threw five TD passes in a half like Mark Sanchez did today. USC's also scored 110 unanswered points. Patrick Turner's two touchdowns is a career high.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez's five touchdown passes already tied the school record for a single game. The record is shared by Rodney Peete, Carson Palmer and Matt Leinart.

OK, which reserve do you want to see the most in the second half? How about D.J. Shoemate or Brandon Carswell? Anyone? Anyone?

It's 27-0 but the extra point was blocked was blocked and USC was called for an illegal formation. Now there's one thing to work on today. Malcolm Smith's gotten his earliest action of the season at linebacker trading off with Kaluka Maiava.
The weather is much nicer than anticipated. And in the pressbox, I heard a good line outside the TV booth, when one of the analysts asked a local, ``You went to school here?'' The guy responded, ``Yeah, it got me out of Vietnam.''
Which was worse?

It's 21-0 with 4:13 left in the first quarter. This is the perfect chance for Mitch Mustain and Aaron Corp to each play a quarter.

It's already 14-0 USC in this mock game as Mark Sanchez has a couple touchdown passes. So far, Washignton State is as bad as advertised and it's the smallest crowd I've ever seen here for a game. Joe McKnight is not suited up but is on the sideline.

It's clear and about 52 degrees. However, showers are forecast for tomorrow.

Joe McKnight, who did not practice this week and is sidelined with turf toe, was a late addition to the travel roster and made the trip to Washington State. Zack Heberer, who also has turf toe, did not.
Maybe, just maybe, this illustrates what we've talked about since last season about the special treatment reserved for the star tailback.

Will Mitch Mustain play in the third quarter? Will Aaron Corp play at all?

Every road trip provides a new experience for USC quarterback Mitch Mustain, who is unfamiliar with other Pac-10 schools.
``Every place has its own mystique,'' Mustain said. ``Friday is like a break time. We get to go visit a new school and see what it's like. I enjoy it.''

The first BCS Standings will be announced Sunday between 1-1:30 p.m. on Fox during its NFL coverage.

Kevin Ellison leads USC with 40 tackles while Taylor Mays has 27. But it is misleading to compare the safeties' statistics because of the way Pete Carroll plays defense.
Mays is stationed in the back, almost in a center fielder's role, and is supposed to make sure the Trojans do not allow any deep passes. That might explain why he had only two tackles against Arizona State while Ellison is allowed to roam closer to the line of scrimmage.

USC actually played more man-to-man defense in the secondary against Arizona State.

Today's winning question for Pete Carroll asks why USC does not have a special teams coach? We'll do it again next week if your question was not selected.

Does anyone have the nerve to not predict a blowout?

Did you know between 2002-2005, USC scored at least 30 points in 27 of 32 Pac-10 games? Between 2006-2008, the Trojans scored at least 30 in 6 of 21 Pac-10 games.

C.J. Gable is supposed to start and then alternate series with Stafon Johnson and then there's that letter that surfaced from Vidal Hazelton's dad to Pete Carroll.
Due to space constrictions in today's paper, the full letter is available after the jump.

Luthur Brown, who is still awaiting medical clearance to play with his sore back, separated his shoulder during practice today.

C.J. Gable and Stafon Johnson will split time against Washington State with Broderick Green in reserve. Assistant coach Todd McNair said Green might get more carries this week but would not play in the first quarter and like see action in the latter half of the game.

Brian Cushing and Rey Maualuga were named semifinalists for the Lombardi Award.
Full list after the jump.

There's been a lot emails to me today about an article that came out on the preliminary round of Song Girl tryouts that appeared on Pete Carroll's blog.

After experimenting at linebacker, Nick Perry will permanently move back to his natural position of defensive end.

Here's the top five largest Pac-10 Conference spreads (data since 1985 season) according to Bodog.

1) Washington - 43½ at Oregon State
1991 Won the game and covered 58-6

2) USC -39½ vs. Arizona
2005 Won the game 42-21, failed to cover

3) USC - 39 vs. Stanford
2007 Lost the game 24-23 and failed to cover

4) USC -37 vs. Arizona
2004 Won the game and covered 49-9

5) USC -37 vs. Washington
2004 Won the game and covered 38-0

Schools with the most weeks in the No. 1 position in the BCS rankings from 1998-2007 are Oklahoma (18); USC (15); Ohio State (14); Florida State (7); Miami (Fla.) (7); Nebraska (5); Tennessee (5); LSU (2); Missouri (1); Texas (1) and UCLA (1).

USC's baseball program spent $2,039,321 on recruiting last year.

Lost amid the endless list of injuries and illnesses this week is the fact Rey Maualuga is not fully recovered from his sprained knee. With Kaluka Maiava (ankle) and Brian Cushing (bruised shoulder) missing most of practices this week, Maualuga is actually in the best shape of the starters.
``It's still sore,'' Maualuga said. ``I'm probably about 90 percent. I'm wearing the knee brace, which makes me feel fat, like a lineman.''

With some sick players, it might be dilmemma choosing the 65-man travel squad for the Washington State game. For example, will Everson Griffen be well enough to make the squad or should USC leave him home? That could open an opportunity for freshman Malik Jackson.
The same applies to offensive tackle Butch Lewis. Freshman Tyron Smith is expected to be part of the rotation if Lewis is unable to play.
``We've got some tough choices for Friday,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said.

It's time for questions again. One per person please.

Vidal Hazelton's status took a twist near the end of Wednesday's practice.

Offensive tackle Butch Lewis, defensive end Everson Griffen, linebacker Jordan Campbell and wide receiver Jordan Cameron all remain out with a stomach virus that hit the USC campus about two weeks ago.
Nick Howell is expected to start at offensive tackle if Lewis is unable to play. Offensive tackle Jeff Byers missed another day with a sore knee.

Trainers determined tight end Blake Ayles actually has a hip flexor, not a sports hernia, as was feared yesterday. Ayles did not practice but is expected to be available for the Washington State game.

Marc Tyler (hip flexor) and Allen Bradford (hip) are out. Joe McKnight (turf toe) appears out. That leaves Stafon Johnson, C.J. Gable and Broderick Green. I'm sure Washington State feels sorry for USC about all this.

Matt Leinart, who is at the Dodgers-Phillies game, was shown on the Jumbotron at Dodger Stadium right now and got booed.

Tailback Joe McKnight did not practice again and doctors determined he officially has turf toe. Pete Carroll said he will wait until tomorrow to make a final decision but McKnight sounded pessimistic.
``It doesn't look good for Saturday,'' he said.

The average men's assistant coach salary at USC is $131,768. Again, that figured is skewed by offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian, who makes $700,000.

Former USC safety Alfred Rowe is playing linebacker at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut.

The average head coach salary at USC is $642,254. Of course, that figure is skewed by Caesar's salary of $4.1 million. So if you asked a head coach at USC if they made that much, you would likely get a double take.

USC football made nearly $8 million last year, with revenue of $28,595,881 and expenses of $20,963,700. This is why football carries the load with athletics.
Here's an interesting nugget: Football's recruiting expenses were $8,712,687.

USC reported today that its men's basketball program lost more than $300,000 last season (Revenues of $4,457,028 vs. Expenses of $4,764,822). With all that ESPN money and good attendance, either this is fuzzy math or O.J. Mayo made even less impact than originally thought.

There are probably a lot of teams that wish they had three healthy running backs like USC. But freshman Curtis McNeal, who joined the team less than a month ago, is still not officially being redshirted in case he is needed at some point.
Which reminds me, the other latecomer, Nick Perry, is redshirting is clearly behind after missing training camp.

After a few days to think about it, Arizona State coach Dennis Erickson said the Trojans' defense is as good as he's seen in college football
``They just don't let you breathe," he said. "Even if you keep everybody in (to protect), they just get so much penetration."

USC coach Pete Carroll said you can't change the way you play in blowout and was mindful of last week's incident involving Washington State.
At Oregon State, Beavers QB Sean Canfield, a former starter now No. 2 because of a shoulder injury he's coming back from, threw a 39-yard pass into the end zone for the last TD in a 66-13 victory, which upset the Cougars.
Coach Paul Wulff wouldn't comment, but cornerback Romeo Pellum said of coach Mike Riley, "He has no class."
Riley said he meant no disrespect and explained that he wanted to get Canfield a couple of throws (it was midway through the fourth quarter), and the play was a corner route on which Canfield checked and went deep.
Two weeks ago, Oregon coach Mike Bellotti criticized USC when Mitch Mustain threw a 59-yard touchdown pass to David Ausberry at the end of the game.

Some media members In Ohio are calling for former starting Ohio State quarterback Todd Boeckman to get more playing time after freshman Terrelle Pryor failed to lead the Buckeyes to an offensive touchdown in a 16-3 win over Purdue.

Here's some dreary details on Washington State.
The offensive line has started five combinations in seven games.
The Nos. 1-2 tailbacks, Chris Ivory and Dwight Tardy, missed Oregon State and Ivory is apparently out for USC.
The wide-receiver situation was bleak enough early, with their 2-3 guys out, that a true freshman, Jared Karstetter - they'd normally have tried to redshirt him - started the opener against Oklahoma State.
The tight end (Devin Frischknecht) has a high ankle sprain and is doubtful for USC.

Time to ask a question for Pete Carroll. The deadline to submit a question is 3 p.m. Thursday. If your question was not picked last week, you can resubmit it.

Here's the rest of the Open/Weekend Forum answers.

USC pondered another position switch, but this time at fullback.

Freshman basketball player DeMar DeRozan believes he is ahead of O.J. Mayo a year ago at this time because he is more familiar with USC.
``I just figured I have the ups and understanding the stuff earlier than O.J. because I came to every game and came to practices and watched the team and O.J. I just feel I know exactly what I need to work on and that's one thing I will take into this week's practice.
``I want to be an overall player. Some say I just score. I just want to be an overall player at both ends.''

USC forward Taj Gibson on returning for his junior year.
``After last year's season, I didn't think it was right for me to leave. We felt we didn't play as well as we should in the tournament.''

Defensive tackle DaJohn Harris moved to tight end. He played some receiver in high school, Pete Carroll said, and the Trojans are limited at tight end with Rhett Ellison (ankle) out and Blake Ayles trying to play with what might be a sports hernia. Ayles missed of some today's practice but is expected to be able to play.

Joe McKnight did not practice and continued to wear a boot for his sore toe. He said the swelling went down but the coaches are becoming less optimistic he will be ready for the game.

Quick hitters in this round.

One football and one song girl question here.

Here's Pete Carroll's press conference quotes today.

Here's Washington State coach Paul Wulff's comments today.

Women's basketball player Jackie Gemelos is out for the year for the third straight season with another knee injury, her third in three years.

We forgot to post this yesterday.

You know a subject's gotten a lot of attention when Caesar, who is not a big computer guy, mentions that he heard about the photo with the Oregon cheerleaders.

Here's a question about future schedules.

A long question and a long answer in this segment.

We'll answer every question today (hopefully).

This week's winner was so good, it helped stump Caesar for an answer and I used it in today's paper.

``It's never as bad or good as it looks or feels after the game,'' USC quarterback Mark Sanchez said. ``It's funny to me people judge your stats. I played better against Oregon State and we lost.''

Vidal Hazelton said his ankle still bothers him on some cuts but I still hear there are no plans to redshirt, even though he did not play against Arizona State. Allen Bradford said he underwent his MRI on Friday but will not know any results until the team doctors arrive Tuesday.

Tailback Joe McKnight did not practice and wore a boot on his foot because his toe hurts. It could be turf toe but he is getting an x-ray tomorrow. He said he hurt his toe on his last carry against Arizona State.
Stafon Johnson was ill and did not attend practice. Kaluka Maiava (ankle), Brian Cushing (bruised shoulder) and Charles Brown also sat out.

A question about academics and football.

How about some recognition for Julie Bescos, a new member of the USC Hall of Fame. He is 97 years old, lettered in football, basketball and baseball and was even head basketball coach in 1942. And he attended the USC-ASU game.
And don't forget my namesake, the late Wally Wolf, an Olympic gold medalist in swimming.

This segment offers a question about the QB recruiting.

With five of the six computer rankings available, as well as the Harris amd Coaches' polls, BCS guru Jerry Palm calculated that Texas would be top-ranked in the BCS poll, with Alabama second. Penn State would be third, followed by USC, Texas Tech, Oklahoma, Oklahoma St., Florida, Utah, and Georgia.
USC is in good shape since it has the easiest schedule.

Lots and lots of questions.

We're back on familiar territory in this segment,

Another all-football segment, featuring a question on the eye black.

Finally, an all-football segment, brought to you by Roman Meal bread, of course.

Defensive tackle Fili Moala was named the Pac-10 special teams player of the week for blocking two field goals (one with his elbow) against Arizona State.

Somehow, Soft-Servegate has taken a life of its own in the Open Forum.

If you got hit by the sprinkler at halftime, post a comment here.

This segment is brought to you by our new sponsors, the Oregon cheerleaders!

Does anyone feel less interest in Saturday's game because the opponent is Washington State?

The Arizona State cheerleaders were gracious enough to take a picture with us on Saturday. Thanks to Daily News photographer Hans Gutknecht, who took the photo.

I'm going to start off with a late question that generated some reader comments regarding O.J. Simpson.

USC opened as a 41-point favorite over lowly Washington State. That is near-identical to the point spread for last year's game with Stanford. I thought this game might open at around 60.

USC currently has just one ranked team (No. 25 California) on its schedule the rest of the season. No. 1-ranked Texas' next three opponents (Missouri, Oklahoma State, Texas Tech) are a combined 17-1.

``It's a terrific conference victory. I don't care what standards you use,'' Pete Carroll said Sunday night.

Pete Carroll on some of the top teams in the country losing Saturday.
``This is just what's going to happen,'' Carroll said. ``Other conferences have similar situations where teams sneak up and knock teams off.''

Pete Carroll admitted the sideline warning penalty on USC occurred when an official was bumped by ``coaches,'' during a celebration following a touchdown.
``I've been sticking pins under my fingernails all day,'' Carroll said.

Vidal Hazelton did not play yesterday. Pete Carroll said it was because he did not practice full-speed the entire week and USC received his MRI reports on his ankle late. Carroll said his sprained right ankle recovered but there were remnants of damage visible.

I realize you have to scroll down to reach the Open Forum, so if you still have a question, post it here. Please do not ask a question if you already posted one in the Open Forum. One question per person.

Defensive end Kyle Moore was called for a personal foul along with Arizona State's Keegan Herring, but Moore objected to being flagged.
``I pulled (Herring) off because he pulled Clay (Matthews). He exaggerated it and fell to the ground. Then he head-butted me,'' Moore said.

Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian was asked if the coaches considered replacing Mark Sanchez with Mitch Mustain yesterday.
``He's our guy,'' Sarkisian said of Sanchez.
Pete Carroll said there was some discussion but it related to Sanchez's injured knee and whether there were any physical reasons to remove him. Both said Sanchez was fine physically but was hampered by missing two practices during the week.

Here's this week's Top 25 ballot for the Associated Press poll.

Here's a defensive player's thought on the offense.
``You can't expect the offense to score 50 points every game,'' safety Taylor Mays said.

What did USC's victory have to do with a skunk?

Pete Carroll summed everything in the locker room tonight following his press conference.
``The biggest issue we face is the turnover thing,' Carroll said. ``On a day like this, we could easily lose.''

USC's offense scored 21 points in two of its three Pac-10 games this season.

Here's what USC gained from today's game.
``We have to learn from it,'' offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian said after the game. ``There will be a 24-21 game and we can't turn it over five straight times. In a tight ball game, we need to snap out of funks earlier.''

``God, it took forever. I kept waiting for something to happen so the fans would clap.''
-- Pete Carroll on the third quarter.

Joe McKnight was asked if he thought about not fumbling during the game.
``I didn't try and about that at all during the game. In practice I focused on keeping the ball high and tight and getting all the bad habits out of the way so I could just focus on good thoughts during the game.''

Mark Sanchez gave a couple comments before quickly leaving the locker room.
``It was a tough outing for me and the offense as a whole. I think that we did it to ourselves.
I didn't make good decisions or good throws.''

``I don't know if I've been around an offensive performance like that in my career. I can't honestly say I don't remember being this ineffective on offensive in my career.''
-- Arizona State coach Dennis Erickson

Time to start discussing the game. Another comfortable victory, of course. But this is a luxury of being in a conference where you don't have to play Texas, Oklahoma, Florida or LSU today.
Joe McKnight bounced back with a nice and didn't fumble. The defense played fairly well against an extremely inept offense but dropped several interceptions.
Your thoughts?

How many other teams besides ASU would USC defeat today?

After three quarters, Mark Sanchez is 11-23 for 156 yards.

With 6:39 left in the third quarter, both teams have 8 net yards in the second half.

Mark Sanchez has not thrown an interception for the past 1.5 games, but he's fumbled twice in that period.
UPDATED: We spoke too soon! There's the interception.
UPDATED AGAIN: And another interception. And another.

Kaluka Maiava is uncertain to return after he sprained his ankle in the second quarter.
UPDATED: Maiava returned and appears OK.

We've got an out of control sprinkler at the 35-yard line right in front of the stands that soaked some fans and cleared a section at the start of the half. The Coliseum!

USC tried a fake field that failed with a 21-0 lead. Maybe ASU realized something was up when Garrett Green suddenly replaced Greg Woidneck as the holder.

Kevin Thomas intercepts Rudy Carpenter and goes 46 yards for a touchdown. The offense was inconsistent early but it already looks over. Lots of empty seats today.

Time to discuss any late hunches. Will Rudy Carpenter play? Will USC start slowly?

Here's an interesting stat from last week, courtesy of wide receivers coach John Morton.

Is USC being a 29.5-point favorite today over Arizona State a blessing or a curse?

I've heard unconfirmed reports there were about 2,000 tickets available for the game around tunnel 4. Check with the ticket office if you're interested.

Struggling Arizona State was picked to finish second in the Pac-10 preseason poll.

Time to pick a winner for the game.

Looks like Allen Bradford will redhsirt and other items of the day.

There's been a lot of focus on Arizona State backup quarterback Danny Sullivan because Rudy Carpenter's status is uncertain. But what happens if Sullivan gets hurt and Carpertner cannot play?
The Sun Devils' third quarterback is Samson Szakacsy, who originally committed to USC but saw the writing on the wall when Aaron Corp and, more importantly, Mitch Mustain suddenly became part of his recruiting class. Who can blame him?

Arizona State quarterback Rudy Carpenter (sprained ankle) said today whether he plays will be a game-time decision.

Stafon Johnson will be the No. 1 punt returner against Arizona State, according to Pete Carroll. Johnson did not know until informed by the media.
``No one's told me,'' he said.
Joe McKnight said his sore knee felt better and he would be able to play.

It looks like Vidal Hazelton's OK to play Saturday as he practiced Thursday without problems. Assistant coach John Morton said Hazelton was not going to redshirt.

Fullback Stanley Havili did not practice and awaits doctors approval for the game. Havili suffered a shoulder stinger but said he has no doubt he will play.
``I know I'll be cleared by Saturday,'' he said. ``Based on myself.''

Does USC miss cornerback Shareece Wright? The secondary's been fine the past two games but an NFL scout said today that Wright is the best corner USC's had since Will Poole and could easily end up being better.

Pete Carroll said earlier this week that Clay Matthews played defensive end better than Brian Cushing two years. Which raises the next question? Would Cushing have been the best middle linebacker if he played the spot his entire career?

Vidal Hazelton finally got his MRI on his sprained ankle (ankles) on Wednesday night although it might be a moot point since he is practicing and available for the game against Arizona State.

We're hearing from NFL scouts that defensive end Clay Matthews is already making himself a first-day draft pick based on his fast start.

There was an odd moment during yesterday's press conference when USC coach Pete Carroll was asked when linebacker Luthur Brown (back) will be cleared by doctors. No real answer was given and even a, ``Before the end of the season?'' comment drew no response.

USC wide receiver Travon Patterson currently has more holding penalties (2) than receptions (0).

Preliminary tryouts for the song girls are Sunday from 3:30 p.m.-6 p.m at the Lyon Center. Final auditions will be Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. at the Lyon Center.

It's time for questions. One per person please.

Mitch Mustain on at least being the backup QB for two straight games.
``It does beat the alternative,'' Mustain said. ``I don't know if there's consolation or if you get a prize for it. We'll start again Monday.''

Shareece Wright's status and other items of the day.

Tailback Joe McKnight said he believed he solved his problem fumbling punt returns.
``I'm working on catching the ball first instead of making my moves first,'' McKnight said. ``I need to look the ball in until I catch instead of trying to run. I've done a better job this week.''

Stanley Havili (neck) was cleared by team doctors tonight although linebacker Luthur Brown (back) remains in limbo. Rey Maualuga (sprained knee) sounded unsure about his status until informed he would start and then agreed he would start against Arizona State.
Quarterback Mark Sanchez is also expected to start after participating in about a third of the team's scrimmaging on Wednesday.

Arizona State coach Dennis Erickson said quarterback Rudy Carpenter is ``is very doubtful'' for Saturday's game.
``Our plan is that (Danny Sullivan is) going to play," Erickson said. "That's where it's at right now."

The Texas-Oklahoma game matters to USC because the Longhorns and Sooners are both in the top five and it has BCS ramifications. Here's what happened in past meetings when both teams were in the top five:

1950 No. 3 Oklahoma def. No. 4 Texas 14-13
1963 No. 2 Texas def. No. 1 Oklahoma 28-7
1975 No. 2 Oklahoma def. No. 5 Texas 24-17
1977 No. 2 Oklahoma def. No. 5 Texas 13-6
1979 No. 4 Texas def. No. 3 Oklahoma 16-7
1984 No. 1 Texas tied No. 3 Oklahoma 15-15
2001 No. 3 Oklahoma def. No. 5 Texas 14-3
2002 No. 2 Oklahoma def. No. 3 Texas 35-24
2004 No. 2 Oklahoma def. No. 5 Texas 12-0

USC coach Tim Floyd did not attend today's Southern California basketball luncheon at the Los Angeles Athletic Club because he is out of town.
This is a tradition for USC, because Henry Bibby annually skipped the event after he was denied a free membership to the athletic club.

Loyola tailback Anthony Barr, who was offered by Notre Dame, USC and UCLA, made an unofficial visit to Notre Dame last weekend. The Irish are heavy favorites to land him.

Did Caesar take a shot at John David Booty while discussing the deep-passing game?
``Our emphasis is not different (this year) but we're better at it right now than the last couple years,'' he said. ``Mark (Sanchez) has a real knack.''

With Vidal Hazelton apparently losing his attempt to redshirt, he and David Ausberry are now fighting for the No. 4 spot in the rotation. The winner is this seems to be Ronald Johnson, who is now a comfortable No. 3.

The Rocky Mountain News published its first Heisman Trophy of the season which asks 10 actual voters and picked the winner 18 of the past 21 seasons.
Player, Position School Points
Chase Daniel, QB Missouri 45 (7)
Sam Bradford QB Oklahoma 39 (1)
Colt McCoy QB Texas 25 (1)
Jeremy Maclin WR Missouri 8 (1)
Others receiving votes: Max Hall (QB, Brigham Young), 6; Graham Harrell (QB, Texas Tech), 6; Javon Ringer (RB, Michigan State), 6; Tim Tebow (QB, Florida), 6; Donald Brown (RB, Connecticut), 3; Mark Sanchez (QB, USC), 3; Dez Bryant (WR, Oklahoma State), 1; Michael Crabtree (WR, Texas Tech), 1; David Johnson (QB, Tulsa), 1

Pete Carroll said Everson Griffen's demotion last week was not to motivate the inconsistent prep star.
``Nope. It was not anything poignant or as a strategy,'' Carroll said. ``He's determined. He played beautifully today. We need him to keep playing well.''
The motivation meeting actually took place in training camp, when we wrote the coaches were frustrated with Griffen's attitude.

Who would you rather bet on being the strongest commitment to USC: Shaquelle Evans or Randall Carroll?

Arizona State's offense has gained just 212 yards (Georgia) and 236 (Cal) in its past two games.

It never ends. Ryan Abraham of USCFootball.com supplied this short video clip from the Coliseum.

The tight ends have caught three passes in the past two games but Blake Ayles has an extra role that could be interesting.

Quarterback Mitch Mustain wore down during Tuesday's practice after taking more snaps he usually does with Mark Sanchez out.
``My whole body is a little more tired than it usually is,'' Mustain said.
Pete Carroll said Mustain was ``spotty,'' during practice.
``During blitz period, the guys got after him pretty good,'' Carroll said.

Allen Bradford (torn labrum) will take the week off and undergo and MRI on Friday. If his hip does not feel better by Monday, then he will redshirt.

Mark Sanchez threw but did not practice. His bruised knee felt better and doctors said Tuesday night he would be allowed to do more. Doctors said the same about Rey Maualuga, who participated in about half of the practice.
Fullback Stanley Havili suffered a shoulder stinger at the end of practice and also had a sore neck. He said he will be OK but was quite stiff afterward. Vidal Hazelton also practiced.

Finally a light at the end of the tunnel in answering questions!

Here's the details on USC's memorial service for Craig Fertig on Oct. 20.

Time to submit a question for Pete Carroll. One question will be selected. Deadline is Thursday at 3 p.m.

Here's Pete Carroll's full press conference.

Here's two relevant answers on players by Pete Carroll today.

Q. Any update on Allen Bradford?

CARROLL: I just talked to him. He feels better. He's going to try to do some stuff today. He's still bothered. He still has this nagging hip thing that's holding him back.
But there has been times where he could get back, but he can't last. We'll see what happens today. We're going to be very careful with him. We need to try to get him well and get him over it instead of just kind of limping his way along.
This could be an injury to him that could last a long time. So we have to take care of him there.

Q. And Vidal Hazelton?

CARROLL: He's okay. He's fine. He's ready to go. Michael Morgan is not going to practice today, I got the word...he did some stuff yesterday, he can't have any contact today. So we'll have to wait and see what happens with Mike, too.

Maybe USC should find a punt returner this way.

A question about Mitch Mustain here. Looks like ``Mitch and Me'' could be revived after all.

Normal service has resumed. Only football questions here.

In case you missed the Morning Buzz, there was a slight shift in the defensive line during Monday's practice, with Kyle Moore moving to defensive tackle while Clay Matthews and Everson Griffen played at end and Fili Moala remained at nose tackle.

Warning: Only Photoshop questions in this segment. You've been warned.

This segment is brought to you by Roman Meal, the official bread of Caesar, proudly feeding the legions since 2001 A.D.

I don't know how photographers materialized out of thin air for what was originally going to be a simple cell phone picture. But here's another high-quality picture sent out way courtesy of photographer Dave Samarzich.

Vidal Hazelton gets an MRI today on his sprained ankles as his status remains a question.

D.J. Shoemate said he did not play against Oregon. We checked because we wanted to make sure when he was not listed on the participation chart. But Shoemate, now playing fullback, said he is not redshirting.

It looks like Stafon Johnson could be taking over punt returning duties from Joe McKnight although Pete Carroll did not make any official announcement.
``I don't know, we'll work it through the week here,'' Carroll said. ``Stafon looked better today.''

Mark Sanchez is optimistic he can play although he did not practice Monday.
``I feel a lot better than I thought I would,'' Sanchez said. ``I'm walking around fine. It's good. I think the swelling is down.''
Pete Carroll was slightly less certain.
``He's got the swelling issue. It's not too bad. We have to prepare Mitch to play.''
Rey Maualuga is also day-to-day while Michael Morgan (concussion) ran but did not practice. Allen Bradford (hip) is uncertain and still could require surgery.

Arizona State coach Dennis Erickson discussed the game today.

USC goes for its 400th victory at the Coliseum this Saturday. Did I already use the, ``ah wonderful . . . '' punchline? Darn.

The Pac-10 reprimanded Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh for his comments about the officiating during the Notre Dame game. Here is the statement:

Remember back when the wide-receiver rotation was larger than the tailback rotation?

More questions, more answers.

I'm getting emails from people who said they miss Lawry's at the Coliseum, so if you feel that way, you are not alone.

The broadcast crew for the Arizona State game is Terry Gannon, David Norrie and Todd Harris. Doesn't ABC realize Stacey Dales should be working every USC game?

Here's a couple looks at former USC quarterback Craig Fertig.
The best story I ever heard was that when he coached at Oregon State, the Beavers played UCLA on a cold rainy day in Corvallis. Fertig made the players come out to the warmups without wearing any long-sleeve shirts under their jerseys.
When Bruins coach Terry Donahue saw this, he ordered his team to remove their undershirts when they returned to the locker room. But when Oregon State emerged from the locker room for the kickoff, the Beavers suddenly were wearing long-sleeve undershirts.

This segment is brought you by Caesar TV, which promises to bring free entertainment to the masses (not available in Corvallis, Ore.).

Only football questions in this segment, folks, that should please some people.

USC quarterback Mark Sanchez became the sixth player in school history to be named Pac-10 player of the week three times, at least since records became available in 1984.
Here is the list.

2008--QB Mark Sanchez
2005--TB Reggie Bush
2002--QB Carson Palmer
1998--CB Antuan Simmons
1992--WR Curtis Conway
1988--QB Rodney Peete

This segment includes a question about who is redshirting.

Here's the grades for Saturday's game.

Did you know that in 1968, O.J. Simpson set the school record for most rushes in a quarter (20). It took Stafon Johnson three games to get 20 carries.

It's the time of the week again. You can still ask a question by scrolling down to the Open Forum area if you have not asked one.

USC slipped in a top 25 despite winning by 34 points. Maybe the blowout only made people more upset about the Oregon State loss.

Freshman wide receiver D.J. Shoemate did not play against Oregon, at least according to the participation chart. Now the chart's been wrong before this season, so we'll have to check, but it's worth looking into because it would be the second straight game he did not play.

The official BCS rankings will not be released for two weeks, but with the Harris and Coaches' Polls available, and five of the six computer rankings out, BCS Guru Jerry Palm has USC seventh in his BCS rankings. Of the six teams ranked above USC, Oklahoma and Texas play each other this weekend, Missouri hosts No. 17-ranked Oklahoma St., LSU travels to No. 11 Florida, Penn State is at Wisconsin and Alabama is idle.

USC coach Pete Carroll said he favored the current running-back rotation.
``It worked out really well,'' Carroll said. ``Stafon (Johnson) ran really well inside. Getting Joe (McKnight) in space was really helpful. (Johnson's) just a good player. The cut he makes (on his 22-yard touchdown) is a phenomenal cut. It was every bit as good as Reggie (Bush) made against Fresno State.''
``Joe played really well and was explosive on the perimeter. He had five or six really nice plays.''

Tailback Allen Bradford's battled a sore hip for about a month, Pete Carroll said tonight. Carroll said it's similar to injuries to Jeff Byers and Mike Reardon, who tore their labrums and were out for a year following surgery.
Carroll said USC will wait to see if Bradford's pain decreases before it gets to the point where surgery is an option.

Quarterback Mark Sanchez underwent an MRI and has a bone bruise in his knee. There is no ligament damage. He will not practice tomorrow and is day-to-day. Pete Carroll said he expects Sanchez will play. If he cannot, Carroll said Mitch Mustain would probably start.

USC committed 12 penalties for 114 yards. Among the notables: Tight end Anthony McCoy drew two holding penalties while wide receiver Travon Patterson was called for holding the second straight game. Wide receiver Patrick Turner also held. Freshman T.J. Bryant picked up his first pass interference penalty. Defensive end Clay Matthews roughed the holder on a field goal and defensive end Kyle Moore roughed the passer.
And there was a too many men on the field penalty.

Did anyone else think Stafon Johnson had more than seven carries? It's hard to believe he had just the third-most carries against Oregon behind C.J. Gable and Joe McKnight. I'm still not buying into this tailback-by-committee thing.

Which true freshmen played, according to the participation chart?
T.J. Bryant, Drew McAllister, Uona Kaveinga, Tyron Smith, Blake Ayles, Jurrell Casey, Armond Armstead and Malik Jackson.

Mark Sanchez was ready to challenge Carson Palmer's school record of 448 yards passing before getting injured, but some of his incompletions were among the worst passes he threw all season.
Sanchez said the bad passes were attributed to ``miscommunications,'' the ``rain,'' and ``pressure.''

The Sagarin Rankings, one of the computer services used by the BCS, generates multiple rankings. In one, which is used by the BCS and does not consider margin of victory, USC is ranked No. 16.
In Sagarin's "Predictor" ranking, which does include margin of victory, USC is No. 1 by a considerable margin. In fact, USC is so highly rated in the "Predictor" that theoretically it should be a favorite over any college team, anywhere.
USC's next opponent, Arizona State, is 64th in the "Predictor", more than 30 points behind USC. Maybe that should make USC fans nervous.

Tailback Joe McKnight admitted he is frustrated with himself.

In the course of duty, I decided to spend time with the Oregon cheerleaders Saturday and tell the girls how popular they are with the readers. And they couldn't be friendlier. Same goes for their head coach, Laraine Raish. Luckily, Joe Andras of WeAreSC,com was nearby to take a great picture.

Here's this week's Top 25 ballot for the Associated Press poll.

All the tickets were sold, but not everyone showed up. The official attendance was 82,765. That represents the smallest turnstile count for a Trojan sellout at the Coliseum since December 6, 1930. On that date, in a pre-Olympics Coliseum, 73,967 fans attended what turned out to be Knute Rockne's last game, a 27-0 Notre Dame victory over USC.

``You've got to catch the ball, that's rule No. 1. You can't give away the possession.''
USC tailback Stafon Johnson on his top priority when returning a punt.

I was told by the Oregon cheerleaders that fans were throwing their addresses at them from the stands during the game.

Linebacker Michael Morgan suffered a concussion and quarterback Mark Sanchez bruised his knee.

But for a different reason.
``I'm still bitter about how it played out,'' Pete Carroll said. ``We just weren't right. We didn't handle it well. I loved this win tonight but I'm still (upset) about last week.''

Oregon coach Mike Bellotti was not thrilled that USC called a deep pass on the 59-yard touchdown from Mitch Mustain to David Ausberry with 1:50 remaining.
``That surprised me,'' Bellotti said. ``I don't get that. I guess they think there is still a margin of victory.''

So what did you think? I will say this: At least Joe McKnight did not return any punts after that fumble.

Why did it take a loss for the coaches to suddenly rediscover David Ausberry?

Mitch Mustain came in and quickly threw an interception, which might make the No. 2 quarterback position another controversy next week.

Pac-10 supervisor of officials Dave Cutaia said the horse-collar tackle that knocked Mark Sanchez out of the game was legal because he was in the pocket.

Matt Barkley was on the sideline before the game. He's thrown 11 interceptions in five games at Mater Dei this season.

Looks like a lot of people skipped the game, especially in the student section. This should make the attendance figure interesting.

USC is ahead 27-10 but why did much of the first half feel like a nothing burger?
The 64-yard touchdown pass from Mark Sanchez to Ronald Johnson was nice but so far the Trojans look a lot closer to every other team in the country instead of demonstrating the loss to Oregon State was an aberration. And this is playing against the Ducks' third-string quarterback.
The late rally at the end of the half made a difference but it masked some very average play for much of the half.

Safety Kevin Ellison had 11 tackles with 13:20 left in the second quarter.

Joe McKnight fumbled a punt return. Mark Sanchez fumbled a snap. Nice start.

Any one have a gut feeling on how the Trojans will play today?

Former USC player and assistant coach Craig Fertig died this morning. He was 66.

USC tries to bounce back today against Oregon.

Here's USC's basketball TV schedule. What stands out is that USC's final four Pac-10 games, when it presumably would be fighting for some type of post-season berth, are not currently scheduled to be televised.

From USC's point of view. USC wins if: The Trojans block and tackle. Oregon does not become a 25-or-41 point underdog.Tailback Stafon Johnson leads the team in carries. Joe McKnight fumbles less than two times. Quarterback Mark Sanchez does not throw more than his customary one interception.

A former football team manager emailed this quote from John Robinson in 1982, regarding the traditions of black cleats, white socks, etc.
"This thing is bigger than O.J. or Frank Gifford, or John McKay or me or any single person."

USC center Kris O'Dowd doesn't like the current schedule in college football.
I don't think Saturdays are enough,'' he said. ``I want to play more often.''

When's the last time USC faced two 5-11 quarterbacks (Lyle Moevao, Jeremiah Masoli) in consecutive weeks? 1948?

Here's this week's reader question for Pete Carroll.

Time for another prediction. I guess I will start off, allowing for the fumble gauge (currently reading +1.7 per game), I'll pick USC 42-21.

Did you know one of USC's vaunted traditions almost disappeared for Saturday's game?

``He misses at times because he tries too hard to hit guys.''
-- USC coach Pete Carroll on Brian Cushing.

Vidal Hazelton missed practice with the flu. He said tonight he would like to redshirt but the odds currently appear unlikely.

Christian Tupou, Michael Morgan, Alex Parsons and Clay Matthews are officially starters. Brian Cushing starts at middle linebacker.

Mitch Mustain is officially the No. 2 QB, moving up two spots from last week.
``It is truly about the competition,'' Pete Carroll said.
Mustain admitted he was frustrated with his role in recent weeks.
``I don't know if I'd call it a funk like a depression but it was hard for Aaron (Corp) and I not being disappointed and not knowing where to go with it,'' Mustain said. ``Going so quickly from go-to guy and then a short-time later having to rewind with Mark (Sanchez) ready to go.''

Here's the parking recommendations from USC and Coliseum for Saturday's game. No word on what to do here if you paid $20 and the parking structures are full, of course.

With 11 victories last season, Pete Carroll made $368,989.63 per victory in 2007. But if you consider that's USC president Steven Sample's total compensation is $908,704, Carroll's total package of $4,058,886 might be good value for money.

USC coach Pete Carroll is telling the players this week that they made some of the same mistakes they made in the first two games, but no one noticed because the first two games were blowouts.
``If you compare it to the other games, it is similar,'' linebacker Brian Cushing said. ``Good tackling is part of the game.''

The Arkansas Supreme Court dismissed a lawsuit that accused the University of Arkansas of mishandling an investigation over e-mails critical of former quarterback Mitch Mustain.

USC center Kris O'Dowd said Oregon's defensive tackles are similar to Oregon State's tackles.
``The interior D-line, they play like Oregon State did, they're good at getting low and getting leverage,'' O'Dowd said.

Do you think little-used Michael Morgan will actually start Saturday if Brian Cushing plays middle linebacker or will Clay Matthews get forced back to linebacker, even if it means Everson Griffen will start in that scenario?

We almost forgot. It's time to ask USC coach Pete Carroll a question. Last week's short schedule prevented us from doing it. One question per person. Deadline is 4 p.m. today.
At least USC doesn't have a coaches' call-in show. Here's a question Virginia coach Al Groh had to take this week.
``Coach, it's unfortunate the way things have gone, but I just want to thank you for returning U.Va. football to the Dick Bestwick era officially. You've taken a well-respected program that George Welsh took 19 years to build and you've managed to completely tear it down."

USC coach Pete Carroll's been the last coach to leave the office every night this week, so whatever happens this week, he is working long hours.

We received official word from Oregon that the Ducks cheerleaders will be at the Oregon
Alumni pre-game function at the Exposition Park East lawn around 3-3:30 p.m. on Saturday.

USC coach Pete Carroll said he did not break an NCAA rule.

Not to another school but on the depth chart. USC could have its third different backup quarterback in three games.
``He's positioned himself to get it done,'' USC coach Pete Carroll said. ``He's had a couple good days off practice.''

Christian Tupou's had the best week of practice at nose tackle so far and is the frontrunner to start against Oregon, where his brother happens to play.

Rey Maualuga did not practice and is not expected to play, according to Pete Carroll.
Brian Cushing will probably start at middle linebacker, based on today's practice.
``He's really, really natural inside,'' Carroll said.
Carroll will look at the film tonight to watch Chris Galippo but said Cushing is the likely starter.
``(Galippo's) well behind,'' Carroll said. ``There's no other way to say it.''

It is Oregon week, after all.

Does anyone think Stanley Havili and Blake Ayles need more passes thrown to them?

You might recall this quote from Pete Carroll regarding a conversation he had with the Trojans at halftime of the Oregon State game.
``There was a little difference of opinion I asked did they feel they were stronger, tougher and more aggressive than you thought. Some said yes, some said no. They didn't have it nailed.''
We hear the conflicting answers came from linebackers Rey Maualuga and Brian Cushing.

Time for more questions. One per person please.

Former USC baseball assistant coach Frank Cruz, most recently the head coach at Loyola Marymount, has been hired back as a volunteer assistant coach.

We're hearing there's a chance Justin Roper, Oregon's top quarterback who has been injured, might start at quarterback for the Ducks on Saturday.

One member of the defense said the Oregon State game provided a completely new experience.
``Their offensive linemen were getting into the secondary on running plays, we've never had that happen before,'' he said.

Many readers have asked why a song girl was airbrushed out of the team picture? You can compare the photos and notice the missing song girl in the lower left corner in the first row. We asked the athletic dept. and the official explanation is provided after the jump.

Oregon State will probably lose to Utah this Saturday, but are the Beavers In the driver's seat in the Pac-10? In October, their only league games are against Washington State and Washington and when they play the better Pac-10 teams - Arizona State, Cal and Oregon -they are at home.

Here's the rest of the Open Forum answers.

In case you missed it, here's yesterday's appearance on the Mason and Ireland show, the sequel to our fiery encounter two weeks ago.