COLLEGE FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : USC : Starting Quarterback Undetermined

USC Coach Larry Smith said Tuesday that he had not yet decided who will start at quarterback Saturday against UCLA.

Sophomore Reggie Perry started in USC’s first nine games but didn’t play at all Saturday in a 31-14 loss to Arizona that included four turnovers by freshman quarterback Rob Johnson, who lost two fumbles and had two passes intercepted, one for a touchdown.

“I think Rob’s start, obviously, was very rocky,” Smith said. “He was involved in four critical plays for us that didn’t help us. . . . He made some good plays, too. . . .

“I don’t think that game is an indication of what kind of quarterback he is, or can be, or will be.”

Estrus Crayton will make his first start at tailback after rushing for 185 yards in 27 carries against Arizona. “Estrus Crayton had an outstanding game and really showed what kind of talent he is,” Smith said. “He’s starting to gain a lot of confidence handling the ball, and obviously he’s going to see a lot more (time) on the field.” . . . Kicker Cole Ford will miss the UCLA game because of a pulled muscle in his left hip. “He can’t pivot and can’t twist through,” Smith said. Ford will be replaced by J.J. Dudum or Martin Boskovich.