Riley Getting Better

USC’s defense is ranked No. 1 in the nation, and senior nose tackle Bernard Riley said Monday that the Trojans are positioned to maintain their lofty status despite a Pacific 10 Conference game with preseason favorite Washington State this weekend.

“As long as we keep doing the things we did against Oregon State, there’s no telling how good we can be,” Riley said.

Riley, a senior who is coming back from off-season surgery on his right knee, rotated in for 21 plays during USC’s 22-0 victory over Oregon State, his longest stint this season.

He made two tackles, pressured quarterback Derek Anderson and kept Trojan sophomore Mike Patterson fresh to do the same.

“We need him for his senior leadership and for the rush he gives us inside,” said Ed Orgeron, USC’s defensive line coach. “He did a heck of a job and is getting better and better.”

Riley, who is 6 feet 3 and weighs 320 pounds, started the first five games last season before tearing ligaments in his knee. He was limited because of soreness during training camp and said he still feels discomfort after games and practices, but not enough to keep him from helping a unit that is giving up only 205 yards a game.

“When you think about your injuries that’s when you get hurt again,” he said. “I just go out there with the mentality that it’s better.

“The more playing time, the better. But as long as we win, it doesn’t matter.”

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Redshirt sophomore Jason Leach worked with the first-team defense in place of senior free safety DeShaun Hill, who participated only in light drills after injuring his left shoulder against Oregon State.

Hill said X-rays taken Monday showed no fractures and that he will play Saturday.

Leach tackled Oregon State punter Carl Tobey at the Beavers’ 12-yard line after a low snap to set up USC’s second touchdown. He also made another tackle and helped shut down Oregon State’s passing attack.

“I have to approach it like I’m going to start,” Leach said. “DeShaun’s probably going to come back, but I have to be ready.”

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To shore up the continuing depth problem at receiver, walk-on cornerback Forrest Mozart moved to offense. Sandy Fletcher switched from safety to receiver last week but suffered a high ankle sprain against Oregon State. Grant Mattos, who missed the Oregon State game because of an abdominal strain, practiced and might be available against Washington State, but Jason Mitchell is still having back problems and probably will not play, Coach Pete Carroll said.... Left tackle Jacob Rogers, who suffered a sprained knee Saturday, underwent an MRI exam Monday and did not practice. He will practice lightly the rest of the week and could play against the Cougars, Carroll said.... Running back Darryl Poston sat out practice because of continuing back problems.... USC’s Oct. 12 game against California at the Coliseum will begin at 3:30 p.m. and will be televised nationally by Fox Sports Net.