THE LOCALS

By DAVID WHARTON

Sept. 8, 2000 12 AM PT

* Kickoff: 5 p.m. Saturday at the Coliseum, Channel 7.

* Story line: After a season-opening victory over a faltering Penn State, the Trojans get a chance to test themselves against what should be a tougher opponent. Colorado is looking for redemption after dropping out of the rankings with a 28-24 loss to rival Colorado State.

* USC update: The Trojans hope to continue where they left off against Penn State, pounding the opposing defense with their running game. But quarterback Carson Palmer is just as eager to come back from a disappointing performance.

* Colorado update: The Buffaloes face a murderous stretch in a schedule that takes them next to Washington, Kansas State, Texas A&M; and Texas. Not a good time to have tailback Cortlen Johnson hobbled with turf toe.

* Edge to USC: Palmer has an opportunity to regain his touch against an inexperienced secondary and if the Trojans don’t come out flat, the defense should prove tougher than what Colorado faced against Colorado State.

* The line: USC by 7.

USC Sports Sports

David Wharton

David Wharton has filled an array of roles – covering the courts, entertainment, sports and the second Persian Gulf War – since starting as a Los Angeles Times intern in 1982. His work has been honored by organizations such as the Society for Features Journalism and Associated Press Sports Editors and has been anthologized in “Best American Sports Writing.” He has also been nominated for an Emmy and has written two books, including “Conquest,” an inside look at USC football during the Pete Carroll era.

THE LOCALS

More From the Los Angeles Times