Booty Listed No. 1 at Quarterback

USC quarterback John David Booty practiced only once this spring before a back injury and subsequent surgery turned him into a spectator, providing Mark Sanchez with an opportunity to challenge for a shot at becoming Matt Leinart’s successor.

But when USC released its depth chart on Friday, Booty’s name was listed in bold as the No. 1 quarterback entering training camp.

“I’m not surprised. That’s what I expect of myself,” said Booty, a fourth-year junior. “One of the biggest things about being a leader is the confidence you get by being the No. 1 guy.”

Coach Pete Carroll, who postponed the Trojans’ final spring workout until Tuesday because of wet field conditions, said Booty and Sanchez, a redshirt freshman, are ahead of where Leinart was when he was named the starting quarterback at the end of spring practice in 2003. Leinart went on to lead the Trojans to consecutive Associated Press national titles and last season’s bowl championship series title game.

Booty said his back felt great -- “I feel I could do football stuff right now” -- and that he would follow a rehabilitation plan while remaining in Los Angeles throughout the summer to work out with teammates.

Carroll said the competition at quarterback would continue in August, but allowed that if Booty “makes it back and he comes out flying, then it’s going to be hard for Mark to knock him out.”

Senior fullback Ryan Powdrell was listed No. 1 at tailback because there are no other healthy scholarship players at the position. Senior Chauncey Washington could be the starting tailback if he is academically eligible for the first time in three seasons. Sophomore Michael Coleman and incoming freshmen such as Stafon Johnson, Emmanuel Moody, C.J. Gable and Kenny Ashley also will challenge for the role.

Senior Kyle Williams and sophomore Chilo Rachal won position battles at right tackle and right guard, respectively. Junior Chris Barrett is listed No. 1 at defensive tackle and sophomore Kevin Thomas is a starting cornerback. Junior Josh Pinkard and sophomore Kevin Ellison are the starting safeties.

Senior Oscar Lua and sophomore Rey Maualuga are still competing to be the starting middle linebacker. Position battles also will continue at one defensive end, one cornerback and the left guard spots.