White, Wright Have Operations

USC running back LenDale White and cornerback Eric Wright had arthroscopic surgery this week, but both said Friday that they hoped to be ready for spring practice.

White, the Trojans’ leading rusher the last two seasons, had an arthroscopic procedure done on his left ankle Thursday.

“They just cleaned it out,” White said after the Trojans were honored before an estimated crowd of 7,000 during a campus celebration. “It should be fine.”

Coach Pete Carroll said White wouldn’t participate in off-season conditioning drills for five to six weeks. Spring practice begins March 6.

Wright said doctors repaired a torn ligament in his left knee Thursday.

As scheduled, running back Hershel Dennis had major surgery on his left knee Friday. Dennis tore ligaments Dec. 16 and is expected to redshirt next season. He would have one season of eligibility remaining.

Quarterback Matt Leinart is scheduled to have an arthroscopic procedure on his left elbow Tuesday. The Heisman Trophy winner has been plagued by tendinitis since the end of the 2003 season. “It’s nothing major....,” said Leinart, who was treated with rock-star status by the adoring crowd. “I’m very confident.”

Defensive lineman Frostee Rucker said he would have toe surgery in a few weeks.

-- Gary Klein