THE SCOUTING REPORT

WHEN USC HAS THE BALL

The Trojan offensive line is establishing itself as one of the best in the nation, allowing a multidimensional attack to flourish. Today that offense, led by quarterback Matt Leinart, faces a defense ranked 82nd among 117 Division I-A teams. Flanker Steve Smith ranks third nationally in receiving yardage, averaging 135.7 yards a game. Running back Reggie Bush could not practice for two days after a career-high 30 touches last week at Oregon but is back to full speed. Linebacker Dale Robinson and safety Zach Catanese are the Sun Devils’ top tacklers.

WHEN ARIZONA STATE HAS THE BALL

Quarterback Sam Keller and receiver Derek Hagan are among the nation’s most formidable combinations, but the Sun Devils are thriving because of a balanced attack. Freshman Keegan Herring is averaging 106 yards rushing a game, and Arizona State should be bolstered by the return of tight end Zach Miller, a freshman All-American who sat out two games because of injury. USC’s defense, ranked 42nd nationally, has weathered injuries in the secondary and linebacker corps.

KEYS TO A USC VICTORY

1. Protect Leinart. Surprise! This has been No. 1 about as long as USC’s winning streak. But the Trojans would be wise to prevent the necessity of another heroic comeback from injury.

2. Corral Keller. Arizona State’s quarterback is bound to get his passing yards, but the Trojan secondary cannot get beat to the end zone.

3. Handle the heat. USC must weather the hot temperature and ward off fatigue -- and turnovers.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* USC Arizona State 59.3 Scoring 47.0 15.7 Points allowed 24.0 367.0 Passing offense 395.8 248.7 Rushing offense 196.0 615.7 Total offense 591.8 234.3 Passing defense 266.0 107.3 Rushing defense 144.0 341.7 Total defense 410.0

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