Allen Bradford News

It was not the most exciting game, especially considering some of the history when these two teams have met on the field.

Malcolm Smith returned one of Southern California's three interceptions 62 yards for an early touchdown, and the 24th-ranked Trojans regained their defensive pride while maintaining their city dominance with a 28-7 victory over UCLA on Saturday night.

Damian Williams, USC's leading receiver and punt returner, continues to be a question mark heading into Saturday's showdown against UCLA.

USC wide receiver Damian Williams probably is doubtful for Saturday's game against UCLA because of the severity of his ankle sprain, according to sources.

Beating Washington State is one thing. So is beating Arizona State and Washington.

The Trojans returned to the field Tuesday for the first time since their 55-21 loss to Stanford on Saturday.

Through the first half of the season, USC's defensive line was regarded as one of college football's best, a young and talented group that stuffed the run and led the nation in sacks.

LOS ANGELES - After suffering a second knockout blow in three weeks, USC began to lift itself up off the canvas with a spirited Tuesday practice.

The giggling, joking and general lightheartedness that USC players typically display en route to team meetings was noticeably absent Monday at Heritage Hall.

USC tailback Joe McKnight agreed the Trojans might lack an identity when asked following a 55-21 drubbing by Stanford on Saturday at the Coliseum.

USC, with an outside chance of winning an eighth consecutive Pacific 10 Conference title, plays the first of three consecutive home games to end the regular season.

Usually schools schedule a cupcake during Homecoming. Usually they make sure the cupcake is light , loaded with creamy frosting and decorated with some celebratory sprinkles.

Pete Carroll always strives for balance on offense. But with USC's season hanging in the balance, it's time to toss that concept in the recycling bin.

It wasn't the prettiest win, but it's nice to be back in the winning column nonetheless.

The USC defense reappeared Saturday night after an extended stay in the doghouse.

Pete Carroll is navigating uncharted territory. After his team suffered the worst loss in the last 12 years of the program, the USC coach is starting from scratch.

Frankie Telfort, a USC freshman linebacker barred from playing because of a heart condition, said he will see cardiologists in December with the hopes of convincing the Trojans' medical staff he can resume his football career.

After an embarrassing loss last weekend, the 12th-ranked USC Trojans get back to action this weekend against Pac-10 foe Arizona State.

Tailbacks Joe McKnight and Allen Bradford are sitting out most of Southern California's practice to rest injuries.

FIVE THINGS TO WATCH All eyes on the Pac-10 The marquee game of the weekend will be in Eugene as USC and Oregon battle at Autzen Stadium.