COLLEGE FOOTBALL: THE BOWL GAMES : None of Charged USC Players to Be Suspended, Smith Says

USC Coach Larry Smith said Saturday that five players who were allegedly involved in law-breaking offenses will not be suspended for the Rose Bowl game New Year’s Day.

Charges of kidnaping his girlfriend are expected to be reduced against reserve safety Jeff Maree when he appears Jan. 5 in Rio Hondo Municipal Court.

Randy Tanner, a starting flanker, and reserve defensive backs Tracy Butts and Reggie Smith were charged with unlawful assembly Dec. 18 outside of a theater in Westwood on the opening night of comedian Eddie Murphy’s concert movie, “Raw.” Police also arrested reserve wide receiver Gene Arrington the same night for investigation of battery on a police officer, alleging that he scratched an officer’s leg.

“Based on conversations with authorities and the players’ attorneys, there will be no suspensions,” Smith said.

Smith also said that freshman backup center Tom Dabasinskas underwent surgery Thursday to repair a dislocated shoulder and will not play in the Rose Bowl game.

Greg Coauette, a starting cornerback, has missed some practices due to back spasms, but is expected to play.