Late Hit Rocks Leinart

In a scene reminiscent of two years ago, USC quarterback Matt Leinart was knocked out of the game during the first half of Saturday’s 38-28 victory over Arizona State at Sun Devil Stadium.

Arizona State linebacker Robert James drew a 15-yard penalty for hitting the Heisman Trophy winner after he threw an incomplete pass with 6:15 left in the first quarter.

Leinart lay on the ground for several moments, then got to his feet and walked to the sideline, where he was treated for a cut under his chin.

“Two consecutive plays I got my head hit pretty good,” said Leinart, who in 2003 came back from knee and ankle injuries to lead USC to a 37-17 victory over Arizona State that started the Trojans on their 26-game winning streak.

Leinart, who sat out two plays Saturday, called James’ tackle “the hardest I’ve been hit in a long time.”

Leinart completed 10 of 23 passes for 110 yards in the first half, then opened the second half by completing his first eight passes. He was 13 of 16 for 148 yards over the last two quarters.

*

An unusual name showed up as the Trojans’ top receiver Saturday: fullback David Kirtman.

The 230-pound senior had made several big catches this season, but nothing like this. He finished with seven receptions for 97 yards.

That included a 42-yard play that moved USC into position for a 24-21 lead in the fourth quarter and a five-yard catch that set up another touchdown, putting the Trojans ahead for good.

Kirtman had a simple explanation for his success: “They were covering everyone else and leaving me open a lot.”

*

Middle linebacker Oscar Lua made the first interception of his career, a play that left him in the open field, rumbling toward the end zone 20 or so yards away.

Only one problem. Halfway to a touchdown, Lua dropped the ball and had to fall on it at the 13-yard line.

“I tucked it into my elbow and I was a little sweaty,” he said. “I’ve got to work on carrying the ball. I’ll put in a few reps next week.”

*

USC finished with 12 penalties for 85 yards.... Freshman safety Kevin Ellison suffered a left knee sprain and will have an MRI exam, an athletic department official said.