Heisman Winner Takes a Pass

Matt Leinart bypassed a chance to make himself available for this month’s NFL draft, but USC’s Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback has begun his indoctrination into pro football.

With Leinart sidelined for spring practice while recovering from elbow surgery, quarterback coach Steve Sarkisian gave the 6-foot-6 left-hander an assignment: break down tape of every NFL team’s defense.

Leinart has dissected the San Diego Chargers and is currently reviewing the Kansas City Chiefs. Sarkisian, who returned to USC in February after spending last season as quarterbacks coach for the Oakland Raiders, said the exercise would help Leinart on the field this season and when he moved on in 2006.

“When he goes to NFL interviews, he’s going to have the ability to talk NFL football,” Sarkisian said.

Leinart said the NFL defensive schemes are, “a little more complex,” than those he is accustomed to seeing.

“He has me analyzing ... what are their favorite blitzes? What’s their favorite coverage? What’s their base defense and all that,” Leinart said. “This year, it will make analyzing defenses look real easy.”

Though Leinart has not practiced, he has been busy rehabilitating his elbow and working with trainers and a specialist to strengthen his core and overcome a hernia that bothered him last season. He said he probably would begin throwing a ball late next month or in June.

“I’m going to be nervous,” said Leinart, who had reconstructive shoulder surgery after his freshman year in high school. “Any time you come back after surgery or any time you’re hurt, you may feel better, but you’re always a little bit hesitant to let go.”

New offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin says Leinart has been a constant presence in quarterback meetings and has not slacked off despite his inactivity on the field.

“With most kids, that would be an issue, but you’re taking about the Heisman Trophy winner,” he said.

Leinart will observe USC’s offense and defense today during the Trojans’ annual spring game at the Coliseum, which last year drew an estimated crowd of 10,000, according to school officials.

Redshirt sophomore John David Booty and redshirt freshman Rocky Hinds are taking snaps in Leinart’s place, and both have performed well during the first three weeks of workouts.

In a scrimmage last Sunday, Booty and Hinds completed a combined 30 of 38 passes against a secondary that featured only one scholarship cornerback.

“I hate being out there and not being able to practice, but J.D. and Rocky are doing real well. There’s a good battle going on there,” Leinart said.

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Today’s scrimmage begins at 11 a.m. Admission is $30 and includes a hamburger lunch.... USC concludes spring practice next week.