Keyshawn Stands Behind Robinson

Keyshawn Johnson, probably John Robinson’s best player in his second term as USC’s head coach, spoke strongly in defense of the embattled coach during a Tuesday night phone interview.

Robinson is under fire, his Trojans (5-6) having lost three in a row. The team ends its disappointing season against Notre Dame on Saturday.

Johnson, the New York Jet receiver who was the No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, said USC’s longtime success with recruiting inner-city Los Angeles athletes could change if Robinson is fired.

“USC will never bounce in the inner city again if they fire Coach Rob,” Johnson said.

“He’s known in every inner-city neighborhood as a man who cares for his athletes. He’s like a symbol--to kids in L.A., like me, he represents the way college football can take you to a college degree.

“He’s the best thing that ever happened to SC and I hate to see him being treated like this.

“If they fire Coach Rob and start from scratch with a new coach . . . I personally know of a lot of younger guys on that team who will leave. And if that happens, that means another four, five years of losing to Notre Dame.”

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Add Oregon State to the list of schools interested in offensive coordinator Mike Riley. He’s expected to interview next week for the opening created when Jerry Pettibone was fired after five years. Riley already has been interviewed by Fresno State. . . . A decision on quarterback Brad Otton’s availability against Notre Dame might not be made until Saturday’s pregame warmups.