Finally, Washington Looks Ready to Roll

Freshman tailback Emmanuel Moody showed last week that he could be the breakaway threat USC has been searching for.

But the Trojans are still waiting for a player to fill the big-back role that LenDale White made his own for three seasons.

Junior Chauncey Washington finally appears ready to assume the role.

“It was the best day yet for Chauncey, by far,” Coach Pete Carroll said after practice on Tuesday. “It was the fastest he’s been.”

Washington, a 6-foot-1, 220-pound fourth-year junior, has been slowed by hamstring problems and recent family issues. Last week, Washington’s grandmother suffered a stroke and a cousin was shot to death. With a heavy heart, Washington rushed for 33 yards in 10 carries against Arizona.

Washington said he would attend his cousin’s funeral on Thursday but would be ready for Saturday’s game at Washington State.

On Tuesday, Washington worked out in the morning to improve his conditioning and burst.

“I have to get my endurance up,” he said before the afternoon practice. “The leg is not hurting anymore. Now I can get it stronger.”

The sooner the better, according to Carroll.

“It’s really important for Chauncey to come back and be a big factor,” he said. “When we have been at our best offensively, we have always had an aggressive running tailback, a guy that can bring it downhill.”

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All-American receiver Dwayne Jarrett did not work out because of a shoulder sprain but said he would practice today or Thursday if cleared by doctors and would try to play against Washington State.

Jarrett injured his left shoulder in the third quarter against Arizona during the series he concluded with a three-yard touchdown catch.

“I felt something pull and pop,” he said. “I’m just trying to stay positive right now and take it day to day.”

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Senior Mike Brittingham will start at fullback for the first time and his backup also will be making a debut of sorts.

Fourth-year junior Jody Adewale is expected to play significant snaps for the first time.

“He’s been with us awhile and knows the system and is a real good receiver,” Carroll said. “He’s done well all the time. Now it’s his turn.”

Adewale, a Roosevelt High graduate, has played mainly on special teams but is prepared for the opportunity in the backfield.

“I’m ready to do whatever they need me to do,” he said.

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Middle linebacker Rey Maualuga wore a pad and protective sleeve on his right shin because of soreness from being kicked against Arizona. The sophomore has started only twice, but that apparently was enough for Washington State Coach Bill Doba. “Maualuga has my vote for All-American right now,” Doba said.... Cornerback Kevin Thomas (ankle) said he had an MRI exam on Monday and was cleared to practice today.... Cornerback Terrell Thomas also had an MRI exam of his sore left shoulder and was scheduled to meet with doctors Tuesday night. Thomas said he would play against Washington State.... Receiver Travon Patterson did not practice because of concussive symptoms that followed a collision in practice on Monday, according to Carroll.... Nose tackle Sedrick Ellis (knee) did some individual work with trainers and might practice in team drills next week.

gary.klein@latimes.com