USC won't miss much with Parsons replacing O'Dowd

When an All-America lineman goes out, it is cause for concern, but USC's offensive line is as deep as the Pacific. So even without center Kris O'Dowd, who is expected to miss two to three weeks with a dislocated kneecap suffered in Monday's scrimmage, the Trojans don't expect much of a drop-off.

Alex Parsons, who started 10 games in 2008 at right guard, will step in for O'Dowd.

"He’s fine,” USC coach Pete Carroll told the Orange County Register of Parsons. “He’s a really good player. ... He’s got excellent quickness. He’s big enough. He knows his calls. He knows the whole system cold. We’re very fortunate to have him.”

Barkley shows freshman colors

Photo from USC athletic department

Aaron Corp tested his left leg,
which was in a brace


For the first time perhaps this fall, USC true freshman quarterback Matt Barkley struggled. Barkley was 5 of 18 passing in Monday night's scrimmage.

"It was the first time Matt showed he could have a day like that," coach Pete Carroll told the LA Daily News. "He hadn't had a day like that before."

Meanwhile, Aaron Corp is expected back next week. Corp threw in passing drills Tuesday.

Mitch Mustain appears to be stuck as the third-team quarterback despite strong performances in scrimmages. He was 10 of 16 for 108 yards passing in Monday night's scrimmage at the Coliseum.

Tyler Moeller's alleged attacker identified

The Columbus Dispatch has a report on the identity of the man who allegedly attacked linebacker Tyler Moeller, causing him head injuries, which means he will miss the season.

The Dispatch said Ralph G. Decker of Kenneth City, Fla., punched Moeller at Gators Cafe & Saloon in Treasure Island, Fla., on July 26.

Decker was charged with simple battery, although the Dispatch said the charge might be upgraded to a felony given Moeller's injuries.

Spitler reportedly will miss a few weeks

Ohio State will be without linebacker Austin Spitler for a couple of weeks with a strained calf muscle, according to the Plain Dealer.

Spitler will likely be replaced by Etienne Sabino or Dorian Bell.

USC-Ohio State hottest ticket

In its latest rankings for college football tickets, TicketCity says the USC-Ohio State game is the hottest ticket for the 2009 season with an average price of $842.37. Find the complete list here.