Polamalu Picked for All-American Team

Troy Polamalu became USC’s first All-American in three years when he was named to the Football Writers Assn. of America team on Wednesday.

The junior safety led the Trojans with 98 tackles this season. Just as important, he recovered two fumbles, blocked three punts and intercepted three passes, two of which he returned for touchdowns.

“He has a great heart, which the great players have,” Coach Pete Carroll said earlier this month. “You put Troy in a good situation, he is going to make things happen.”

The Trojans have had players named to various All-American teams 122 times but none since linebacker Chris Claiborne in 1998. The last Trojan safety to be so honored was Mark Carrier in 1989.

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Associate head coach DeWayne Walker has been contacted about the head coaching job at Navy and is reportedly being considered for the California opening, though he has not heard from that school.

“It’s an honor when people are interested,” he said.

Walker previously served as secondary coach for Cal and the New England Patriots.

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The Trojans are planning to arrive in Las Vegas at least a couple of days before the Las Vegas Bowl begins its scheduled events Dec. 22. That would give players some practice time before they start attending luncheons and news conferences.

Game tickets are available for $50 each at the USC ticket office. For information, call (213) 740-4672.