USC is the defense chief
USC FOOTBALL
The Trojans are No. 1 in total defense, scoring defense and passing defense. They take on No. 21 California on Saturday.
As USC's victory and shutout totals continue to grow, the Trojans' defensive numbers keep getting smaller.
A 56-0 victory over Washington, USC's third shutout, kept the Trojans No. 1 nationally in total defense and scoring defense, made them No. 1 in passing defense and improved them to No. 5 in rushing defense.
"I'm a little biased, but they're doing really good," said New Orleans Saints defensive lineman Sedrick Ellis, who attended Saturday's game.
USC, No. 7 in the Bowl Championship Series standings, is giving up only 211.6 yards and 7.1 points a game. The Trojans are allowing 127.5 passing yards and 84.1 rushing yards a game.
The Trojans play No. 21 California on Saturday, a team that presents much more of a challenge than beleaguered Washington.
The Golden Bears are 6-2 overall and 4-1 in the Pacific 10 Conference. Led by running back Jahvid Best, they average 36.3 points and 402 yards a game.
"We always respect their program," Coach Pete Carroll said. "They're in good shape and playing good football. We've seen them a lot on film already, watching them go through conference."
Klein is a Times staff writer.
gary.klein@latimes.com
