Carroll’s Message: Let’s Take a Break

USC Coach Pete Carroll gave his players strict instructions on Wednesday before the top-ranked Trojans broke for the Thanksgiving holiday and three days off: “Lay around and rest.”

Since an open date after its opener against Hawaii on Sept. 3, USC played 10 games without a break. The Trojans practiced three times this week and will return on Sunday to begin preparations for their Dec. 3 game against 11th-ranked UCLA.

“These guys are beat down, they need a break,” Carroll said. “You can see it in the receivers and [defensive backs]. They’re worn out, so this is really a good time for us.

“I’ll be concerned when we come back. We’ve got to get back to business and make sure we’re practicing really sharp and doing things well. So Sunday is an important day to get us started.”

Nearly two dozen USC players are from states other than California. Carroll said all of them would be traveling today and Friday.

“I can’t wait to go see my grandma and hang out with the family,” said junior running back LenDale White, as he hurried from practice to catch a flight to Colorado.

Sophomore tight end Fred Davis, who was suspended from the Orange Bowl last season for failing to return from Ohio on time after a Christmas break, said he was going home.

“I’ll be back Saturday,” he said, chuckling. “I’m going to try to be back early. I’m not waiting till Sunday.”

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Quarterback Matt Leinart and running back Reggie Bush are finalists for the Maxwell Award, presented annually to the college player of the year. Texas quarterback Vince Young also is a finalist. Bush also is a finalist for the Doak Walker Award (top running back). Jerome Harrison of Washington State and DeAngelo Williams of Memphis are other finalists. ... Fullback David Kirtman did not attend practice because he was ill, Carroll said. Kicker Mario Danelo also remained out because of illness.