Wright Gets First Chance to Start

Redshirt freshman cornerback Eric Wright will make his first start this week, USC Coach Pete Carroll said Monday.

Wright will play Saturday against Arizona in place of senior Kevin Arbet because Arbet suffered a knee sprain against Oregon State. Arbet is expected to miss two weeks. Wright’s role has grown throughout the season. He played nearly the entire game against Oregon State after Arbet was injured late in the first quarter.

“It’s not that big of a deal,” Wright said of starting. “I know there’s a process as far as Coach Carroll giving me time here and there. ... Starting and being in for 60 plays isn’t that much different than sliding in there and playing 30 or 35.”

Carroll said Wright performed well in the 28-20 victory over Oregon State at fog-shrouded Reser Stadium.

“It was a great opportunity for Eric to play a whole game in a difficult setting, and he did well,” said Carroll, whose team is still No. 1 in the BCS standings.

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Senior guard John Drake missed the Oregon State game because of a high left ankle sprain, but he said he would try to practice today in an effort to return for Saturday’s game at the Coliseum. “I’ll give it a go and see how much I can do to see if I’m helping or hurting the team,” Drake said.

Carroll said freshman guard Jeff Byers played well in Drake’s place against Oregon State and would probably start again against Arizona.

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Quarterback John David Booty participated in team passing drills for the first time since he injured a nerve in his right elbow before the opener against Virginia Tech in August.

“It’s exciting to be out there, but I still have a ways to go,” said Booty, a sophomore who is redshirting this season.

Booty and freshman quarterback Rocky Hinds, who also is redshirting, were among the players who accompanied the Trojans to Oregon State.

Carroll said Booty might work with the service team this week. Booty and Hinds are expected to get extensive opportunities during bowl-game preparations in December.

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Running back Reggie Bush ranks second nationally in all-purpose yards. Bush is averaging 180.2 yards a game. Darren Sproles of Kansas State is the national leader at 190.9. ... Receiver and punt returner Greig Carlson, who missed the last two games because of a knee sprain, returned to practice and said he hoped to play Saturday. ... Cornerback Ronald Nunn (knee) also returned, and Carroll said he would probably play against Arizona. ... Safety Scott Ware (foot) did some individual drills, but he is not expected to be ready to play again until the Notre Dame game. ... Receiver Chris McFoy remains slowed by a knee sprain and might not practice until Wednesday, Carroll said.