USC vs. CAL

Time: 3:30 p.m.

* Site: Coliseum

* Records: USC 4-1, Cal 3-1.

* TV: Fox Sports West 2

* Radio: XTRA (690)

THE OFFENSES

* These are not well-oiled machines--or very good advertisements for the West Coast offense. Cal ranks 109th among 112 Division I-A teams in total offense and last in the Pacific 10 at about 256 yards a game--including a paltry 68.5 yards rushing. USC, at about 307 yards a game, ranks 84th in the nation and eighth in the Pac-10. But the Trojans are averaging almost 30 points, partly because of special teams and defense, which have scored a third of USC’s touchdowns. One problem for USC: tailback Chad Morton probably will sit out the game because of a back bruise, but the decision isn’t expected until shortly before game time.

THE DEFENSES

* The strength of both teams. USC leads the Pac-10 in total defense, giving up only about 320 yards a game, despite having played more downs than any other team. Linebacker Chris Claiborne is the star, but linebacker David Gibson and safety Rashard Cook are big-play athletes too. Cal has taken big strides since 1996, when the Bears gave up an astounding 33 points a game. That number stands at 15 now, and Cal has given up more than two touchdowns only once, against No. 2 Nebraska in a 24-3 loss.

* Key to the game: It could be the quarterback who distinguishes himself against these solid defenses, since neither running game is in good shape. USC quarterback Mike Van Raaphorst is trying to hold off talented freshman teammate Carson Palmer, who might get in during the first half today. Cal’s Justin Vedder needs a big game after throwing two interceptions against Washington State.

* Fast fact: Cal’s 1996 victory over the Trojans is the Bears’ only victory in the Coliseum since 1970.

* Line: USC by 11.