Hance Gets Passing Grade in Tough Collision Course

USC coaches held their breath during an anxious moment at practice Friday, when quarterback Brandon Hance absorbed an inadvertent hit from defensive end Omar Nazel.

That wasn’t part of the plan for Hance, who is rehabilitating a surgically repaired right (throwing) shoulder and was participating in his first team drills in more than a year, since he played for Purdue last season.

But Hance wasn’t fazed by the unexpected contact. He quickly rejoined play while a shaken-up Nazel walked to the sideline.

“I loved the fact we get in an accident and he bounced right back up,” Coach Pete Carroll said of Hance. “It’s good for his confidence.”

Although he isn’t 100%, Hance threw the ball surprisingly well and showed he is ahead of schedule in his rehabilitation. He is among several quarterbacks vying to replace senior Carson Palmer.

Hance is sitting out the season after transferring.

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Offensive coordinator Norm Chow said he has been contacted about head coaching openings at Kentucky and East Carolina, but neither inquiry has progressed past the initial stages. “Nothing is going on,” Chow said.... Fewer than 5,000 tickets remain from USC’s allotment of 15,000 for the Orange Bowl, said Steve Lopes, senior associate athletic director.

-- Rob Fernas

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UCLA offensive tackle Mike Saffer and four freshman teammates have received recognition from the Sporting News. Saffer, who has started 41 games as a Bruin, was named a second-team All-American. Outside linebacker Spencer Havner and strong safety Jarrad Page were chosen freshman All-Americans. Tailback Tyler Ebell and center Mike McCloskey were named to the second team. In addition, Havner was selected the Pac-10 defensive freshman of the year.... In a change of policy, UCLA practices leading to the Las Vegas Bowl will be open to the public. Practices are today from 2 to 4 p.m. and Monday through Friday from 9 to 10:45 a.m.

-- Steve Henson