Sept. 17, 2003

Columbia, S.C. – Wednesday’s Highlights: USC had a physical 2.5 hour practice in preparation for this Saturday’s non-conference matchup against UAB. The offense continued to rotate three different quarterbacks during 11 on 11, with Dondrial Pinkins, Bennett Swygert and Blake Mitchell all rolling with the first team offense. The offensive coaches will once again look at the film from Wednesday’s practice, evaulate it, and continue to work towards establishing a starter for Saturday’s game. There also continued to be some tweaking along the offensive line, with Stephen Sene, Chad Walker and Chris White getting a good, long look from the coaches. Daniel Weaver is expected to be the placekicker for Saturday. While the quarterback competition seems to have the press in a quandary, assistant head coach and offensive coordinator Skip Holtz says the coaching staff is taking a methodical approach and is in no hurry to announce this week’s starter. “We don’t play until 7 p.m. Saturday,” said Skip. “All three quarterbacks are getting a good look. It’s a healthy competition. They are all encouraging one another. They are not pulling against one another. I think all three have done some good things at one time or another this week. I wouldn’t say that one has stood out over the other. All three will continue to get reps on Thursday. We’ll come to a decision either Thursday evening or Friday. I’ve been encouraged with the play of all three. Once we come to a decision, I will sit down with the other two and give them an explanation on how we came to our decision. If Blake is not the starter, I don’t think at this point I would want to use his red-shirt year. On the other hand, I don’t think I would want to name him the starter this early in the week, because as a true freshman he would then have three days to think about it.”

Injury update: USC’s offensive line has taken a hit with the injuries this week. Jabari Levey had surgery on his finger Tuesday to clean out a severe infection. He was expected to be released from the hospital Wednesday evening. His availability for Saturday is uncertain. Jeff Barnes has a bruised shoulder, as does Woodly Telfort. Both practiced on Wednesday. Josh Malloy is scheduled to have knee surgery in the near future and is out for the year. Jon Hall is still limited due to an ankle injury he suffered during preseason camp. Jonathan Alston is nursing a sore knee. Others who are injured include LB Ricardo Hurley (ankle); LB Marcus Lawrence (back); LB Lance Laury (knee); and WR Aryhel Freeman (arm).

Thursday media availability: There is no player availability. Coach Lou Holtz will be available in the press room following practice at approximately 6:10 p.m.