Defensive Line Has Been Bright Spot

The performance of USC’s defense has been overshadowed by the Trojans’ offensive problems, but defensive coordinator Keith Burns believes this is the best defense in his five seasons at USC.

The defensive line--which had six sacks against Washington State and has helped limit opponents to 66 yards a game rushing--has been the biggest surprise.

Three linemen had two sacks apiece against the Cougars--Cedric Jefferson, Marc Matock and Sultan Abdul-Malik.

The defense’s one problem has been giving up the big play--usually on passes over the middle--and Coach John Robinson said the problems have been with USC in zone coverage.

Washington State scored the winning touchdown on a pass that turned into a 51-yard touchdown, and Florida State set up the winning touchdown with passing plays that went for 46 yards and 26 yards.

“We’re about five plays from being undefeated,” Burns said. “Some were our mistakes; some were the other team’s execution.”

*

Running back LaVale Woods, who sprained his ankle Thursday, is walking without difficulty and is expected to resume practicing next week. “That one scared me,” said Robinson, who likes Woods’ consistency and aggressiveness. . . . Quarterback John Fox and receiver R. Jay Soward were among the players held out because of soreness and minor injuries that Robinson expects to be alleviated with a weekend of rest. . . . Linebacker Mark Cusano sat out a third day because of a pulled stomach muscle. . . . Friday’s list of offensive linemen on the sidelines: starters Chris Brymer and Phalen Pounds and backup David Pratchard.

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

NEXT FOR USC

WHO: California

WHERE: at Berkeley

WHEN: Sept. 27, 4 p.m.

TV: Channel 7

RADIO: KLSX-FM (97.1)