Defense Braces for Offensive Assault

The USC defense found its bearings again against Washington State, posting the Trojans’ third second-half shutout of the season and picking off six passes in the 42-14 victory Saturday.

Just in time too. Next up: Oregon and quarterback Akili Smith, who has thrown only four interceptions while passing for 1,639 yards and 18 touchdowns. The Ducks should be USC’s toughest defensive test so far even without injured tailback Reuben Droughns.

“Oregon might be the finest team in the conference,” USC Coach Paul Hackett said. “Certainly, they’re the most explosive team, getting 500 yards and 50 points a game.”

Before anyone at UCLA goes into a dither, he’s right, at least statistically. Oregon leads the Pacific 10 Conference in scoring (48.5 points a game) and total offense (522.8 yards), slightly ahead of the Bruins in both categories.

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Believe-it-or-not stat of the day: Despite USC’s offensive trouble, the Trojans are the third-highest scoring team in the Pac-10 at 31.4 points a game, trailing Oregon and UCLA. One important note: Defense and special teams have accounted for eight of USC’s 28 touchdowns.

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Results from medical tests seeking an answer to quarterback Mike Van Raaphorst’s recurring nausea could come as soon as today, but analysis of his condition might take longer, a USC spokesman said.

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The Trojans’ game against Washington on Oct. 31 at the Coliseum has been set for 12:30 p.m. to accommodate an ABC regional telecast.

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Offensive lineman Matt Welch, who has mononucleosis, and receiver Quincy Woods, who has a knee injury, are listed as doubtful for the Oregon game. . . . Linebacker Mark Cusano, who dressed but didn’t play against Washington State, is probable.