Soward Predicting Victory This Week

Receiver R. Jay Soward’s high-spirited, never-ending chatter has already started, days before USC seeks revenge against Arizona State for a 48-35 double-overtime loss last season.

“We’re going to show them this year the Trojans are what it’s all about. We’re the team of the future, not the team of the past,” said Soward, whose brother Marcus was a defensive back for the Sun Devils last season.

Asked how he would feel if the Trojans win, Soward--quickly dismissed the if.

“I’m going to be so happy after the game. It’s going to feel like I’ve regained something.”

After beating the Trojans, Arizona State went on to take an undefeated record into the Rose Bowl, where the Sun Devils lost to Ohio State, 20-17, in the final minute. USC finished 6-6.

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Tailback LaVale Woods was on crutches Tuesday and although Woods hopes to return for the Notre Dame game Oct. 18, Coach John Robinson believes Woods’ high ankle sprain will keep him out “an extended period of time.”

“We’ve lost LaVale Woods,” Robinson said.

“I’m just mad, but I’ll be back,” said Woods, who hurt his ankle in the first quarter of his second game as a starter. It’s the latest in a series of injuries that have hampered the career of Woods, a fifth-year senior.

He’ll be replaced as starter by freshman Malaefou MacKenzie.

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Robinson brought loudspeakers onto the practice field to blare crowd noise in an attempt to simulate the distractions and “irritability factor” of Sun Devil Stadium. . . . Quarterback John Fox is playing with a sore right ankle, and although Robinson said he questioned some weeks if Fox would be able to play, Fox said, “There was no doubt in my mind.” . . . Fullback Ted Iacenda, who gashed and badly bruised his right hand Saturday, is fine for the Arizona State game.

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NEXT UP FOR USC

WHO: Arizona State

WHERE: Sun Devil Stadium

TIME: Saturday, 12:30 p.m.

TV: Channel 7

RADIO: KLSX-FM (97.1)