THE SCOUTING REPORT

No. 9 USC (4-1, 1-1) vs. STANFORD (2-1, 0-1)

TONIGHT, 7, COLISEUM

TV -- Fox Sports Net

Radio -- KMPC (1540)

WHEN USC HAS THE BALL

Quarterback Matt Leinart is scheduled to start, but his mobility and balance could be impaired by the high ankle sprain he sustained against Arizona State. Freshman John David Booty was elevated to No. 2 on the depth chart this week and would be called on if Leinart cannot play or struggles, Coach Pete Carroll said. Freshman tailback LenDale White will not start but is expected to get the majority of carries again after rushing for 140 yards against Arizona State. Junior John Drake will start again at right tackle in place of Winston Justice, whose availability because of an ankle injury will be determined at game time. Stanford is third in the nation in rushing defense, giving up 56.3 yards a game. The Cardinal alternates 4-3 and 3-4 schemes and blitzes most plays.

WHEN STANFORD HAS THE BALL

Redshirt freshman quarterback Trent Edwards played in the opener against San Jose State and replaced fifth-year senior Chris Lewis as the starter for the Cardinal’s second game against Brigham Young. Edwards has completed 47 of 92 passes for 462 yards with four touchdowns and six interceptions. Senior receiver Luke Powell has overcome the ankle injury that slowed him all of last season. He is averaging 11.4 yards for 19 receptions. Running backs Kenneth Tolon and J.R. Lemon rush for averages of 86.3 and 36.7 yards a game. USC’s Daniel Urquhart will start again at middle linebacker in place of Lofa Tatupu. Tackle Shaun Cody leads a defensive line that recorded five sacks last week. USC gives up a conference worst 292.8 passing yards a game.

KEYS TO USC VICTORY

A steady signal-caller: Quarterback Leinart must remain efficient despite his injury. If he cannot, freshman Booty or another replacement must step up.

A White-hot running game: With Leinart slowed, the Trojans need another big game from freshman tailback White. Of course, USC would welcome a superior performance from Hershel Dennis or Reggie Bush as well.

Pressure the passer: Stanford quarterback Edwards has started two games. USC’s defense needs to show why the Trojans lead the Pac-10 with 21 sacks.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* USC STANFORD 37.4 Scoring 22.0 20.2 Points allowed 17.3 257.8 Passing offense 169.3 131.0 Rushing offense 145.7 388.8 Total offense 315.0 292.8 Passing defense 267.3 71.2 Rushing defense 56.3 364.0 Total defense 323.7

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