THE SCOUTING REPORT

WHEN USC HAS THE BALL

After largely losing the battle at the line of scrimmage last week, Trojan linemen will try to reestablish their dominance against a Washington defense ranked eighth in the Pac-10. Matt Leinart has not thrown a touchdown pass in two of the last three games. Reggie Bush has rushed for more than 100 yards in five consecutive games and leads the nation in all-purpose yardage.

WHEN WASHINGTON HAS THE BALL

Quarterback Isaiah Stanback has passed for 1,340 yards and six touchdowns with four interceptions. He also has rushed for 172 yards. Sophomore running back Louis Rankin averages nearly five yards a carry. USC linebacker Keith Rivers is coming off a 12-tackle performance against Notre Dame. Safety Josh Pinkard might also play at cornerback because reserve William Buchanon has a hip injury.

KEYS TO A USC VICTORY

1. Protect Leinart. The Trojans cannot afford to have the Heisman Trophy winner again absorb shots such as those inflicted last week by Notre Dame.

2. Stop Stanback. Washington’s quarterback is strong-armed and mobile, which will force Trojan cornerbacks to stay in coverage longer.

3. Purge penalties. Personal fouls and other infractions have not cost USC a game -- yet.

HOW THEY COMPARE

*--* USC Wash. 48.7 Scoring 20.5 21.2 Points allowed 30.7 341.2 Passing offense 234.0 271.8 Rushing offense 127.3 613.0 Total offense 361.3 249.2 Passing defense 284.3 101.2 Rushing defense 157.3 350.3 Total defense 441.7

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