USC will probably need to sign several offensive line recruits in February because center Michael Reardon is moving to tight end and freshman Matt Meyer's career could be over because of recurring foot injuries.
The Trojans also are not going to re-sign offensive guard Daniel Campbell, who was unable to meet NCAA Clearinghouse requirements in August and went to a prep school.
We lose four guys after next season so we'll be down to the young guys,
offensive line coach Pat Ruel said Saturday.
The Trojans will lose left guard Jeff Byers, left tackle Charles Brown, right guard Alex Parsons and right tackle Nick Howell after the 2009 season.
So far, USC has received a verbal commitment from only one lineman, Kevin Graf of Agoura.
Who calls plays?
New offensive coordinator John Morton said there's been no discussion on whether he or expected quarterbacks coach Carl Smith would call plays next season.
(Coach Pete Carroll) said we would talk about it when the time comes,
Morton said. Yeah, I would like to do it but I want to do what is best for the team.
Morton said he and Smith are just getting to know each other.
Carroll said Saturday he is close to hiring Smith.
Carl's sitting with us (in meetings) and there are just some things we have to work out,
Carroll said.
Smith has called plays from the sidelines with the NewOrleans Saints and Jacksonville Jaguars in the NFL.
Playmaker
Freshman safety Drew McAllister only played during mop-up situations this season, but he still intercepted three passes, which tied him for first with cornerback Kevin Thomas.
When I first came here, I never thought I would get three picks or anything,
McAllister said. I didn't even know if I would play.
He is projected to replace All-American Taylor Mays at free safety if Mays departs for the NFL.
Mays did not intercept a pass this season.
McAllister said he played cornerback for only one season in high school and intercepted just one pass.
But in scrimmages and games this season, he demonstrated a knack for getting the ball. He was the only USC player to intercept UCLA quarterback Kevin Craft two weeks ago.
Senior cornerback Josh Pinkard said Saturday there is a 50-50 chance he will return for his final season. Pinkard applied for a sixth year with the NCAA but is expected to turn pro.
Havili hobbled
Fullback Stanley Havili remains bothered by a sprained ankle.
He's not moving very well,
Carroll said. Other than that, we're in good shape.
Two-way kicker
New commit Jake Harfman from Mt. San Antonio College of Walnut was recruited as a placekicker, but can also punt.
That is significant because USC needs a replacement for senior punter Greg Woidneck.
Harfman averaged 40 yards per punt at Mt. SAC. He made 20 of 26 field goals with a long of 56 yards.
