Bibby Cautions Team Against Looking Past Arizona State

Although it’s early in the Pacific 10 Conference race, USC certainly doesn’t mind seeing itself only one-half game behind Arizona in the standings.

“It’s a great feeling of accomplishment,” Coach Henry Bibby said. “I attribute that to the kids and them making a commitment to what we’re trying to do. I’m very pleased with that. . . .

“But it’s early, you can’t rest on your laurels. We did what we needed to do on the road. Now we have to bear down at home and do what we’re supposed to do here.”

Home games against Arizona State and Arizona this week could have a big impact on how USC fares the rest of the season. And, in a sense, the Arizona State game on Thursday could be more dangerous.

USC, which could be ranked in the top 25 today for the first time this season, will be a definite underdog Saturday against the second-ranked Wildcats, the favorites to win the conference championship. The game against Arizona State is deemed winnable, although the Sun Devils have won seven of eight games.