Attendance Mark Is in Their Sights

USC is expected to get a head start on breaking the home attendance record it established last season when the top-ranked Trojans play Colorado State today at the Coliseum.

School officials are anticipating a near-capacity crowd in the 92,000-seat stadium as the Trojans try to extend their home winning streak to 16 games.

Last season, USC averaged 77,804 for six home games, eclipsing the record of 76,063 set in five games in 1988. The Trojans drew 75,315 for their first home game last season against Brigham Young.

USC has not lost at the Coliseum since Sept. 29, 2001, when Stanford defeated the Trojans, 21-16, in front of 53,962.

Cornerback Kevin Arbet, a sixth-year senior, said he has watched Coliseum crowds grow larger in the last three years.

“Before, it used to be half full when you came out for the game.... Now it’s almost always packed,” Arbet said. “That helps us a lot. It feels good when you make a play.”

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USC officials said there would be heightened awareness about security today, the third anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

John Henderson, an assistant athletic director in charge of operations and game management, said procedures have been in place since just after the events of 2001.

“We’re observant of stadium entrances and vehicular traffic,” he said. “We’re telling people to come early and we ask them not to bring large bags or backpacks.

“There’s a significant, special meaning to Saturday. We just want people to be aware of stadium policy so they can have a great experience and a great day.”

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Colorado State defensive lineman Chris Kiffin is the brother of USC receiver coach Lane Kiffin.... All military, fire and police personnel will receive a two-for-one discount on game tickets today. There will be a moment of silence for the victims of the terrorist attacks, and also a fighter jet flyover before kickoff.