Rivers Might Have to Pull a Double Shift

USC linebacker Keith Rivers is preparing for double duty on Saturday when the top-ranked Trojans play seventh-ranked California at the Coliseum.

Rivers worked with the first-unit defense on Wednesday because senior Matt Grootegoed sat out to rest an ankle injury sustained the day before. Rivers also could play end in nickel situations.

“Well move him around,” Coach Pete Carroll said. “He’ll play at linebacker regardless.”

Rivers, who had two sacks in the Trojans’ victory over Stanford, said he was prepared for whatever role that was needed.

But Grootegoed said he planned to play against the Golden Bears.

“It feels better than I thought,” said Grootegoed, who missed all or part of the final seven games last season because of a high sprain in the same ankle. “I feel pretty confident about this weekend.”

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Safety Scott Ware will make his third start because Darnell Bing’s left shoulder continues to be problematic.

Bing, who is doubtful for the Cal game, started the opener against Virginia Tech but played as a reserve against Colorado State and Brigham Young before returning to the starting lineup against Stanford. Jason Leach will move to strong safety so that Ware can play free safety.

Carroll said freshman Josh Pinkard also could play as part of a safety rotation. Greg Farr is unavailable because of a foot strain.

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California quarterback Aaron Rodgers said last year’s victory over USC will help the Golden Bears on Saturday. During a conference call, Rodgers said the 34-31 triple-overtime win at Berkeley has Cal, “believing that we can not only play with them but beat them.”

Rodgers, a junior, has completed 43 of 58 passes for 614 yards and six touchdowns with two interceptions. He is second nationally in passing efficiency.

Rodgers said Saturday’s showdown, “might be the biggest game in our program’s history.”

“People are still doubting us, saying ‘They don’t really deserve the No. 7 ranking’ and stuff, so it’s going to be a great chance for us to show the country what Cal football is all about this season,” Rodgers said.