It appeared doubtful a few days ago, but it looks as if USC will have its regular offensive and defensive play-callers in the starting lineup against Arizona State.
Quarterback Mark Sanchez practiced Wednesday for the first time since suffering a knee injury last week against Oregon, taking first-team snaps during several drills and moving and throwing the ball well.
Sanchez's status for Saturday's game hinges on how well his knee responds today and the rest of the week, Coach Pete Carroll said. If Sanchez cannot play, Mitch Mustain will start.
Carroll did not wait to announce that Rey Maualuga would start at middle linebacker against the Sun Devils, allowing Brian Cushing to return to the strong-side spot. Redshirt freshman Chris Galippo will back up Maualuga, who did not play against Oregon because of a knee sprain suffered against Oregon State.
Maualuga has been wearing a brace on his right knee and has been instructed to do so for three games. The senior seemed surprised when informed that Carroll announced him as the starter but said he would be ready.
Asked if he was fully healed and ready to play, Maualuga said, "Am I the same 100% to do this and do that? It's too close to say because it's only Wednesday."
With only four games left at the Coliseum, however, Maualuga does not intend to miss any chances to finish his career with a flourish.
"I don't want to be selfish but . . . I want to enjoy it," he said.
Catching on
Tailback Joe McKnight sat out most of practice because of right knee soreness, but not before completing extra pre-practice work catching punts.
"Just trying to sharpen my tools back up, get back to catching the ball," said McKnight, who has fumbled three punts this season, losing one.
McKnight said his problems stemmed from trying to make moves before he caught the ball.
"I wasn't looking the ball in," he said. "I would catch it, but next thing you know it would just come out."
Stafon Johnson replaced McKnight after a fumble against Oregon and could get more opportunities against Arizona State.
Carpenter doubtful
Arizona State quarterback Rudy Carpenter did not practice Wednesday, putting Danny Sullivan on track for his first career start.
Sun Devils Coach Dennis Erickson told the Arizona Republic that Carpenter, who has started 36 consecutive games, was "very doubtful" to play against USC.
