Davis Isn’t Taking Chances

After putting his players through a 99-play situational scrimmage Friday, USC Coach Pete Carroll sent the top-ranked Trojans home for the holidays.

“We made it through without anyone getting nicked so we’re in pretty good shape going into the break,” Carroll said.

Players are required to report to campus by late Tuesday. On Wednesday, they will begin weeklong preparations for the Jan. 4 Rose Bowl.

Sophomore tight end Fred Davis said he would spend Christmas with relatives in San Diego rather than at home in Toledo, Ohio, so he can be assured of reporting on time.

“I’m trying to play in this game,” Davis said, laughing.

Last year, Carroll suspended Davis for the Orange Bowl after he failed to return to campus on time following a Christmas break.

Davis was forced to watch on television as the Trojans demolished Oklahoma to win their second consecutive Associated Press national title.

“It’s still fresh in my mind,” Davis said. “I decided at that time to make sure it doesn’t happen again. So this year I’ve been at everything I have to be at on time.”

Davis matured into a major contributor for the Trojans, starting three games and catching two touchdown passes.

“Freddie’s come a long way,” Carroll said.

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Freshman receiver Patrick Turner, who sat out the UCLA game because of a hamstring injury, was a standout during Friday’s extended workout. He made several tough catches, including one for a long touchdown on the final play.

“I’m at about 90%,” said Turner, who was scheduled to fly to Tennessee on Friday night. “I’ve got to work out while I’m at home and make sure I maintain my health.”

Carroll said he instructed players to run during the break, but cautioned them against lifting weights or playing basketball.

“This is not the time to take chances there,” Carroll said.

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Carroll said he planned to tighten security next week to discourage crowds of autograph seekers that have swelled each day.

Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush and fellow tailback LenDale White left the practice field through an alternate exit so they could escape the demands.

“It’s really time for the players to feel a little more free with their time coming and going,” Carroll said. “We’ve accommodated everyone as much as we possibly could up to this point.

“We just can’t do a bunch of signing every single day they’re out here. It’s a burden on the kids.”

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Earning a spot in the bowl championship series title game has its benefits.

Players left campus hauling bags that contained an Xbox 360 console -- one of their Rose Bowl gifts.

“Just in time for Christmas,” junior tackle Kyle Williams said.