Rucker, Danelo will be in their thoughts

USC seniors are looking forward to playing at the Coliseum for the final time today against UCLA, and also to the traditional pregame introductions, which will include a salute to the late Drean Rucker and Mario Danelo.

Rucker, a linebacker from Moreno Valley, signed with the Trojans in 2003 but drowned in the ocean that summer. Danelo, the Trojans’ starting kicker for two seasons, died in January of a fall from a cliff in San Pedro.

Coach Pete Carroll met recently with Danelo’s parents and Rucker’s father.

“This would have been the end of their careers here, so the more we can make them feel comfortable and part of it, the better,” Carroll said. “These were extraordinary tragedies for their families so any joy that we can be a part of generating and help them feel a part of the Trojan family is worth it.”

During the 2003 season, former defensive end Kenechi Udeze dedicated the first tackle he made each game to Rucker’s memory.

Linebacker Thomas Williams recalled working out with Rucker for about a month during the summer before the 2003 season.

“I just remember how good a player he was,” Williams said. “He was such a nice guy. Soft-spoken and kind of kept to himself. I wish I had had a chance to play with him.”

Offensive lineman Drew Radovich, one of Danelo’s closest friends, said the kicker would be on his mind when he comes out of the Coliseum tunnel for the final time as a player.

“I’m probably going to think about that more than just my own personal stuff,” Radovich said. “I’ve been playing this season for him. I haven’t really told anyone that, but everything is for that guy.

“I’m going to try and choke back the tears and any kind of crazy emotions, but I’m definitely going to feel him out there. After all that, it’s snap back to football.”

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Tailback Hershel Dennis, a sixth-year senior, has waited longer than any current USC player for his final home game.

“It’s a great opportunity to go out there and to get my tug before I leave,” he said. “I just want to have a big impact on the team and just leave it all on the field whether it’s on special teams or whatever.”

Dennis was a backup in 2002 and started every game in 2003. A suspension during training camp in 2004 put him behind Reggie Bush and LenDale White and he suffered two major knee injuries that forced him to miss two seasons.

“It feels like I just got here last week or something,” said Dennis, who scored his first touchdown against UCLA on Nov. 23, 2002.

“Now that it’s over, it’s kind of overwhelming. But everybody’s time comes and it’s definitely my time to move on.”

Dennis said he had come to terms with the ups and downs of his career. He had hoped for a significant role this season, but has carried only 15 times for 59 yards.

“I’m at peace with it,” he said. “Things didn’t really go the way I planned or the way I wanted it to go, but I feel I dealt with it. It was frustrating at first but I had to get over it and understand my time just wasn’t in college. Maybe it will be at the next level.

“I’m just grateful to be able to experience what I’ve experienced since I’ve been here. Hopefully, I can take it to the next level and be successful.”

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Parking and shuttle service to the Coliseum is available at Staples Center for $25, USC officials said. The lots, Nos. 4 and 5, are located at Figueroa and 12th Street. The shuttle will begin at 8 a.m. and continue until one hour after the game.

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gary.klein@latimes.com