Leinart Is Sharp in Scrimmage

USC completed a dress rehearsal of sorts Thursday night as the Trojans prepared for their Aug. 28 opener against Virginia Tech.

The 72-play scrimmage at the Coliseum capped a simulated game-day routine that began with a light practice Wednesday afternoon and an overnight stay at a hotel. The Trojans had team meals and meetings before busing to the stadium for the evening scrimmage, and Coach Pete Carroll had crowd noise played at the nearly empty Coliseum.

USC plays several night games this season, including the opener in Landover, Md.

Despite a sore arm, quarterback Matt Leinart completed 19 of 23 passes for 238 yards and four touchdowns with one interception. The first-unit offense did not face the first-unit defense.

“There are some throws when I’m a little hesitant, because it’s not worth it right now,” Leinart said of his arm, “but I feel pretty good and I was surprised with some of the throws tonight.”

LenDale White, Desmond Reed, Dwayne Jarrett and Fred Davis had touchdown receptions. Jarrett, a freshman, had five catches for 80 yards.

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Erik Christianson, a spokesman for the NCAA, said no documents were received from USC regarding its request for a progress-toward-degree waiver and reinstatement of receiver Mike Williams’ eligibility.... Senior safety Greg Farr, a former walk-on, was awarded a scholarship.... The annual “Salute to Troy” will be held tonight at Dedeaux Field. Members of the Trojans’ 1979 and 1954 teams will be honored.

Times staff writer Eric Sondheimer contributed to this report.