Trojans boast truly balanced backfield

However, McNair continues to show a flair for division in his four-plus seasons as USC's running backs coach.

"I've got a good feel for that stuff," McNair said.

In 2005, McNair divvied up the opportunities -- and psychological strokes -- between Reggie Bush and LenDale White nearly to perfection, both tailbacks going into the regular-season finale with the same amount of carries.

Last weekend, in USC's 52-7 season-opening rout of Virginia, the Trojans mainly played four tailbacks. All touched the ball between nine and 11 times.

Junior Allen Bradford rushed nine times and caught two passes. Sophomore Joe McKnight rushed six times and caught four passes. Sophomore C.J. Gable and junior Stafon Johnson each had nine carries.

Together, they produced 202 rushing yards, 39 yards receiving and four touchdowns.

But was it enough to keep all of them happy?

"The score says it all, so it was enough for me," McKnight said after the game on Saturday.

Bradford, the odd man out last season, agreed.

"It's good to get the chance to show what I can do," he said.

McNair will attempt to continue the delicate balancing act as the top-ranked Trojans prepare for their Sept. 13 game against third-ranked Ohio State.

McNair wants to keep his charges happy, but did not rule out going mainly with one or two players with a hot hand.

"The main thing," he said, "is win the game."

gary.klein@latimes.com