Crowd Salutes Robinson

John Robinson, fired after the fifth season of his second stint as USC’s coach in 1997, received a standing ovation from a crowd of about 2,500 boosters Friday night at USC’s annual “Salute to Troy” event.

The event honored the 1953 team and the 1978 team that Robinson coached to a 12-1-0 record and a share of the national championship.

Robinson, coach at Nevada Las Vegas, was not invited two years ago when his 1976 team was honored. He attended a memorial service for longtime assistant coach Marv Goux at USC last summer. He was invited to Friday night’s event by Trojan Coach Pete Carroll and was introduced by Paul McDonald, quarterback of the 1978 team.

“This was the greatest time of our lives,” Robinson said during a two-minute speech.

Robinson, who arranged his team’s practice schedule so he could attend the event, thanked the university and said he still followed the Trojans. Robinson left immediately after his speech and returned to Las Vegas. UNLV is preparing for a Friday opener against Toledo.

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USC ran 110 plays during a mock game on Friday, none more important to the Trojans than the few series that included senior left tackle Jacob Rogers.

Rogers, who was All-Pacific 10 Conference last season, has a strained left foot and did not begin participating in drills until a few days ago, after he was fitted with a custom brace. Friday was his first day of contact.

“It’s been a little while, but I felt pretty good out there,” Rogers said. “No problems.”

Rogers is one of three starting offensive linemen nursing injuries. Senior left guard Lenny Vandermade has a strained arch, but is playing center while starter Norm Katnik rehabilitates a knee injury. The Trojans do not practice today and will begin preparations Sunday for the Aug. 30 opener at Auburn. Katnik is expected to return for Sunday’s workout.

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Freshman quarterback John David Booty got his most extensive work to date, completing 11 of 20 passes for 119 yards with one interception against the first- and second-unit defenses.

“I was finally able to get into a rhythm,” Booty said. “Instead of three plays, I was able to run like 20 or 30. That was good.”

Starting quarterback Matt Leinart completed 16 of 20 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns against third- and fourth-team reserves. Matt Cassel (three for four) and Brandon Hance (two for five) each passed for a touchdown.

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Freshman defensive end Chris Barrett was elevated to No. 2 on the depth chart behind left end Kenechi Udeze.

Barrett, 6 feet 5, 250 pounds, moved ahead of junior Van Brown, who has a groin injury and will not play against Auburn.

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Tailback Hershel Dennis rushed for 39 yards in five carries, Reggie Bush for 84 yards in 14 carries.... Senior flanker Keary Colbert and senior linebacker Melvin Simmons were elected team captains.... Chauncey Washington, Fili Moala and Jody Adewale did not practice again because they are still awaiting certification from the NCAA Clearinghouse.... Carroll said fullback Brandon Hancock was scheduled to be released from a hospital today. Hancock, who will not play against Auburn because of a high ankle sprain, was treated for an infection in his right knee.