Cody a Lombardi Finalist

USC defensive lineman Shaun Cody was chosen Tuesday as one of four finalists for the Lombardi Award, presented to the nation’s top lineman.

Georgia defensive end David Pollack, a finalist last season, Erasmus James of Wisconsin and Derrick Johnson of Texas are the other finalists. It is the first year since 1990 that all finalists are seniors.

The winner will be announced Dec. 8 in Houston.

Cody, regarded by Coach Pete Carroll as the cornerstone of the Trojans’ return to national prominence on the field and the recruiting front, is USC’s first Lombardi finalist since Tim Ryan in 1989.

“It’s an honor, and I’m happy for our whole defense,” Cody said.

USC offensive lineman Brad Budde won the Lombardi Award in 1979. The Trojans also have had two other finalists: nose guard George Achica in 1982 and linebacker Jack Del Rio in 1984.

Cody has played tackle and end this season and has recorded a team-best eight sacks among his 11 tackles for losses.

“We’re finally seeing his ability of being able to dominate a game,” defensive line coach Ed Orgeron said.

Carroll and Orgeron said Cody is playing better than at any time in his four years in the program.

“The more critical the time during the game, the more he shows up, whether it’s blocking a field goal or making a play on a quarterback,” Carroll said. “He has been that guy who has come through when we need him throughout his career.”

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Running back Reggie Bush left practice after hurting his left wrist, but X-rays were negative and Bush said he sustained a strained tendon.

Bush said he broke the same wrist in high school and would treat the strain with ice and anti-inflammatory medication.

“It’s not a big deal,” he said. “I’ll be back out there [today].”

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During a conference call with reporters, Arizona Coach Mike Stoops laughed when asked if he would collaborate with his brother, Bob, if USC were to play Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl.

“I doubt it.... It would be a great matchup to win,” Stoops said. “They are two very talented football teams that really have no great weaknesses as you watch them play.”

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Running back LenDale White, a cousin of Detroit Piston guard Chauncey Billups, attended Monday night’s Clipper game and was overwhelmed by the size and detail of the Pistons’ NBA championship rings.

White said he tried on a ring that was “three times bigger” than the elaborate rings USC players received for winning a share of the national championship last season.

“There was a lot of ice, a lot of diamonds,” White said. “You could see everything so clearly. It was flawless.”

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Offensive lineman John Drake (ankle) did not practice and is not expected to play against Arizona.... Flanker Chris McFoy (knee) did not practice.... Safety Scott Ware (foot) was scheduled to see a doctor Tuesday night and was hoping to receive clearance to resume practicing.