They’re Ready to Carry the Load

Hershel Dennis’ status for USC’s opener against Virginia Tech remains in doubt, but running back Desmond Reed is not worried about the Trojans.

“We still have the best backfield in the nation with LenDale White and Reggie Bush,” said Reed, a redshirt freshman who will join the backfield rotation and replace Dennis on the kickoff return unit.

Dennis, a junior who started every game last season, remains suspended indefinitely for violating team rules. According to law enforcement sources, he is the focal point of a sexual assault investigation that may involve a member or members of the team. The alleged incident occurred last week in the complex where Trojan players were housed during training camp.

It is not clear what Dennis’ role was in the alleged incident.

Reed, 5 feet 9 and 180 pounds, graduated from Temple City High and worked at safety and cornerback during the first part of last season.

He switched to receiver around midseason and was moved to tailback before spring practice.

“They gave me a pretty good opportunity in practice and scrimmages to show what I have,” Reed said.

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Mike Williams is in Los Angeles, but the receiver will not attend practices until the NCAA rules on his case, Coach Pete Carroll said after Saturday night’s workout. Carroll said Williams’ summer school grades will be sent to the NCAA Monday afternoon or Tuesday. Fall semester classes begin Monday.... Junior Justin Wyatt, who is listed as a starting cornerback, played receiver for the first half of practice and could be used on offense because William Buchanon has a hyper-extended knee.