Defense Dominant in Scrimmage

USC’s defense hasn’t been talked about much the first week of practice, but it’s the strength of the team.

That was abundantly clear Saturday, when the Trojans’ offense managed only three field goals and a late touchdown in a 70-play scrimmage at UC Irvine.

“The defense is about where I expected it to be or a little ahead. The offense is a little behind,” Coach Paul Hackett said.

Defensive end Sultan Abdul-Malik had two sacks and four tackles for losses.

Hackett gave most of the time at quarterback to Quincy Woods and freshman Jason Thomas, limiting the play of the top two--Mike Van Raaphorst and freshman Carson Palmer.

Van Raaphorst, the designated starter for the Aug. 30 opener against Purdue, completed three of five passes for 20 yards. Palmer attempted two, completing one for a 33-yard play to R. Jay Soward.

Starting tailback Chad Morton had negative yardage on five carries. Freshman Frank Strong was the leading rusher with 36 yards in six carries.

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Tight end Scott Huber is likely to redshirt because the hip he injured last week is expected to take six weeks to heal, but won’t require surgery.