Pinkard Will Get Start at Cornerback

Sophomore Josh Pinkard showed his versatility throughout USC’s first seven games, starting once at safety, playing linebacker in obvious passing situations, and then filling in at cornerback last week against Washington.

On Monday, Coach Pete Carroll confirmed that Pinkard would start at cornerback for the top-ranked Trojans against Washington State on Saturday at the Coliseum.

“I’m ready for it, I’m ready to take on the challenge,” Pinkard said after practice.

Pinkard fills the spot vacated by senior John Walker, who suffered an ankle sprain in the first quarter against Washington and is doubtful for Washington State. Walker had an MRI exam on Monday and watched practice with a protective plastic boot encasing his left foot.

Asked when he would return, Walker said, “It varies with these kinds of injuries. We’ll see.”

Pinkard was moved to cornerback last week because backup William Buchanon was nursing a hip injury. Pinkard is the third player to start at cornerback opposite senior Justin Wyatt. Redshirt sophomore Terrell Thomas began the season as a starter but suffered a season-ending knee injury in the second game against Arkansas. Walker started the last five games.

Pinkard said his experience at safety would serve him well at cornerback.

“I feel like I’m aggressive toward the ball,” said Pinkard, who has intercepted two passes. “I’m not going to sit back and let guys go up and get the ball. I’m going to go up with them as well.”

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USC’s game against Stanford on Nov. 5 at the Coliseum will begin at 7 p.m. and will be televised by TBS.... Senior linebacker Dallas Sartz said he would have shoulder surgery today and would begin rehabilitation in about a week. Sartz will be a redshirt and will return for spring practice.... Running back LenDale White did not practice because of a thigh bruise, but said he would probably return today.