COLLEGE FOOTBALL DAILY REPORT : USC : It’s Weight and See for Tailback Walters

One reason Shawn Walters is having to compete for the starting tailback position he once held has to do with his aversion to weight training.

Coaches say Walters, who is 6 feet and weighs between 225 and 230 pounds, should be bench pressing about 400 pounds. But strength coach James Strom says Walters’ best is 350. Walters says it’s 365.

Walters says: “I know I could bench 400. But when I lift, I get big really quick, and I’m concerned about my flexibility too.”

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When Houston’s defensive coaches assembled Sunday afternoon for a film review of their 45-10 loss to USC the night before, nothing had changed. The star was still Keyshawn Johnson.

“He’s got the kind of athletic ability to make moves other receivers just can’t do,” said Gene Smith, Houston’s defensive coordinator.

“On his second touchdown, you really have to look closely on the film to see the move he put on our cornerback. It was just a little head-and-shoulder wiggle, but it got our guy leaning the wrong way and it made the difference on the play.

“Every trait you can think of in a great wide receiver, he’s got it all--size, excellent speed, athleticism, change of direction, hands. He’s the best receiver we’ll see this year.”