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Taking Risks Might Be Part of the Plan

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TIMES STAFF WRITER

A few days after his decision to punt on a crucial fourth down against Oregon, Coach Paul Hackett said he may need to become more adventuresome on offense.

“We have played things, perhaps, a little close to the vest,” he said. “Perhaps the uncertainty of youth or how we’re going to perform has made us say ‘Gee, let’s play it safe’ instead of ‘Let’s really roll the dice.’ ”

Having Carson Palmer and Kareem Kelly in practice this week might also embolden the coaching staff. The two could not work together last week because of injuries.

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“Having all the parts together, now we can tinker with some things,” offensive coordinator Hue Jackson said. “The bottom line is, we need to score more points.”

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While the coaches were talking about taking more chances, the uneven play of their starting quarterback also prompted questions about his being replaced by senior Mike Van Raaphorst.

“There’s always the possibility we could make a change,” Hackett said. “Mike has shown he can move this team.”

However, the coach said Palmer should be judged by more than statistics.

“You have to remember what Carson has been to this team,” he said. “He is a leader on this team. He’s been the guy that has been out front from the beginning. At this point, I think he’s the one that gives us the best chance to win.”

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Stanford is facing a more immediate decision at quarterback. Senior Randy Fasani has been cleared to play after recovering from recent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. But Coach Tyrone Willingham has yet to determine if he will start, even though sophomore Chris Lewis has struggled as a replacement.

“It’s one thing to have medical clearance,” Willingham said of Fasani. “You need the functional ability on the field to do the things you need to do to win.”

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The USC secondary, which got roughed up against Oregon, had another tough day on Tuesday.

Cornerback Kevin Arbet missed some of practice because of what was reported to be a minor ankle injury. Cornerback Kris Richard re-injured his knee and was scheduled to be examined by team doctors.

“That sets us back a bit,” Hackett said. “I don’t think it’s serious but the same thing keeps nagging him.”

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Eric Denmon is listed as possible for Saturday and said his ankle is feeling better, but Hackett has all but ruled him out for the game.

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