Garrett Vouches for Morton

Is Chad Morton, at 5 feet 8 and 170 pounds, too small to be a full-time tailback?

Mike Garrett, USC’s athletic director, doesn’t think so. Garrett won the 1965 Heisman Trophy at USC at 5-9 and 185 pounds.

“Chad could carry the ball 20 to 50 times a game and be at no more risk for injury than a 200-pounder,” he said.

“He’s special. He’s the most talented running back I’ve seen around here in 12 years.”

*

Freshman Chris Claiborne will start in place of middle linebacker Taso Papadakis against Houston. Papadakis, who had a sore knee, turned an ankle against Oregon State, but is expected to return against California on Oct. 5.