THE LOCALS
* Kickoff: 12:30 p.m. Saturday at Coliseum, Channel 7.
* Story line: This one is rather ho-hum after USC’s 35-6 victory over the Aztecs at the Coliseum last season. The Trojans are better this year, and any Aztec hopes for a breakthrough season were squashed by a 38-10 loss to Illinois in their second game.
* USC update: There wasn’t much to quibble with in a 62-7 victory over Hawaii. There is less depth at running back with Malaefou MacKenzie doubtful because of a hamstring injury and fumble-prone Frank Strong bothered by a knee bruise, and backup fullback Chad Pierson is out because of an ankle injury. But starting tailback Chad Morton and No. 2 Sultan McCullough ought to be able to carry the load.
* San Diego State update: Ted Tollner, the former USC coach, has named newcomer Jack Hawley to start at quarterback Saturday over Brian Russell, the starter in the first two games. Hawley, from El Segundo High and L.A. Harbor College, has completed 50% of his passes, but making his starting debut in the storied Coliseum might be a tall order.
* Edge to USC: The Aztecs haven’t won a nonconference road game since 1981, a streak of 25 games. Make it 26.
* Line: USC by 23.
Go beyond the scoreboard
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