Lane Kiffin’s first real test as USC’s coach comes against an old friend

USC is undefeated and nationally ranked but now opens a stretch of games that should give the Trojans a more realistic sense of identity. Washington had an open date last week after getting blown out at home by sixth-ranked Nebraska. Staff writer Gary Klein looks at some of the issues surrounding Saturday’s game:

Coaching colleagues

USC Coach Lane Kiffin and Washington Coach Steve Sarkisian matured together as ambitious assistants on Pete Carroll’s staff.

Now they each earn millions running their own programs.

Sarkisian, 36, is enthusiastic and about as polished as they come in dealing with the media and alums. He also proved himself as a coach last season when he knocked off his mentor at Seattle.

Kiffin, 35, improved Tennessee and is the first USC coach since Jess Hill to start 4-0. But this is his first big test — with an even larger one looming next week at Stanford.

They know each other’s tendencies, so expect a few surprises.

Leading men

Matt Barkley has passed for 12 touchdowns, more than anyone else in the Football Bowl Subdivision, and ranks 14th nationally in passing efficiency. However, he’s had two passes intercepted in each of the last two games.

Washington quarterback Jake Locker entered the season projected as the possible No. 1 pick in the NFL draft, but he hasn’t looked the part. Locker is completing only 51% of his passes and was four for 20 against Nebraska with two interceptions.

Of course, Locker proved last season against USC that he could be steady in the clutch. And his size, speed and aggressive running style make him the dual-purpose threat that Trojans defenses traditionally struggle against.

Backfield in motion

Kiffin gave Sarkisian and defensive coordinator Nick Holt plenty to think about by deploying Marc Tyler, Allen Bradford and Stanley Havili as the Trojans’ main ball carrier in different games.

Sarkisian also is preparing for Dillon Baxter, citing the freshman’s experience operating out of the Wildcat formation in high school.

Sophomore Chris Polk leads Washington’s rushing attack. The sophomore from Redlands has gained 264 yards and scored two touchdowns in 53 carries. Locker has rushed for 100 yards and two touchdowns.

Line ‘em up

USC’s offensive line, in its best overall performance of the season, did not allow a sack against Washington State.

Sione Potoa’e, a reserve defensive lineman, has 1½ of the Huskies’ six sacks.

USC’s defensive line, which has not been at full strength all season, must contain Locker but also pressure him.

Washington’s offensive line has given up only two sacks.

Leg up

USC was successful in its lone two-point conversion attempt last week, improving the Trojans’ to three for eight in that department. The Trojans also blocked a punt and an extra point.

Joe Houston is one for four on field-goal attempts. Punter Jacob Harfman got no opportunities against Washington State but has averaged 41.4 yards a kick.

Washington’s Erik Folk kicked three field goals against USC last season, including a last-second game-winner. He is three for three this season, including a 54-yarder against Brigham Young. Kiel Rasp punted nine times against Nebraska, averaging 48.7 yards.

Home grown

Sarkisian has Southern California ties and a victory over USC already under his belt. But he considers this game a major showcase for his program.

“Everyone knows the Huskies are coming,” said Sarkisian, who spent last week’s open date recruiting in the Southland.

Kiffin and recruiting coordinator Ed Orgeron hope to rebuild a wall around the Southland and keep the best prospects at home. A victory over Washington might help prevent the kind of migration that allowed former Huskies coach Don James to build a power with Southern California players.

gary.klein@latimes.com