Kelly Catching Up to NCAA Leaders

After two big performances, Kareem Kelly ranks 11th in the nation with an average of six receptions a game.

The sophomore had a career-high 10 catches for 145 yards against Colorado two weeks ago. He then caught seven passes for 106 yards against San Jose State.

Saturday’s effort included a 61-yard touchdown on a play in which Kelly faked a short pattern, then sprinted past cornerback Carlos Koustas.

“He ran a great route and was wide open,” Carson Palmer said. “It was one of those passes that are so neat to throw. I just kind of lofted it up there and he ran underneath it and made a great catch.”

Another aspect of the touchdown might have gone unnoticed--the offensive line gave Palmer time to pump-fake and throw by picking up a blitz.

“The whole play happened because the offensive line did an awesome job blocking,” Palmer said.

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With USC beginning its Pacific 10 schedule at Oregon State on Saturday, Coach Paul Hackett took a moment to size up the competition.

“The one thing we know about our conference is that it’s very even,” he said.

After a lackluster 1999, the Pac-10 has four ranked teams--No. 6 Washington, No. 8 USC, No. 15 UCLA and No. 20 Oregon. Arizona State is hovering just outside the top 25.

This weekend, two of the best teams, Washington and Oregon, meet in Eugene.

“I think that will take a large step in determining who the early favorite is,” Hackett said. “It’s early and a lot of things are going to happen.”

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USC’s home game against Arizona on Oct. 7 will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will be broadcast regionally on ABC.