Trojans Rise Despite Being Idle

which looked tough a week ago--lost some of its luster over the weekend.

First, Penn State was manhandled at home by Toledo, prompting reevaluation of the Trojans’ victory in the Kickoff Classic last week. Then Colorado, which comes to the Coliseum on Saturday, lost to Colorado State and dropped out of the rankings.

San Jose State, which figured to be a significant underdog, looked like one in losing to Nebraska by five touchdowns.

But the Trojans got some good news when they rose from No. 12 to No. 11 in the Associated Press top 25 poll. And their RPI rating stands to benefit because Notre Dame, another future opponent, defeated Texas A&M; to move into the top 25.

Coach Paul Hackett said Penn State’s loss should not diminish the fact that USC traveled across the country and won in a hostile, sold-out stadium. He also believes victories by other Pacific 10 Conference teams such as UCLA and Oregon could help his team as the season progresses.

“The conference is getting a chance to hold its head up high,” he said. “Now we’ve got to tend to business.”

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Tailback Malaefou MacKenzie is expected to return to action when the Trojans resume practicing Tuesday. Offensive lineman Joe McGuire is also expected back.

The news wasn’t as good for lineman Trevor Roberts. The left guard, suffering from a strained foot, will try to run this week but is doubtful for the Colorado game.

Safety Matt Grootegoed also missed practice Sunday because of flu-like symptoms that began last week.

“He’s feeling rundown,” Hackett said “We’re going to do some testing.”

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Instead of watching the Colorado game, Hackett traveled north to see UC Davis win its home opener, 55-7, over New Mexico Highlands on Saturday night. He wanted a closer look at a sophomore linebacker.

Nathaniel Hackett, his son, is a reserve for the Aggies and played enough downs to record four tackles, getting one of his team’s three sacks. He was also the special teams snapper.

“I don’t get much chance to see him,” Hackett said. “He played great.”