Robinson: ‘. . . We’ve Got Our Hands Full’

USC Coach John Robinson understands the role the Trojans are cast in this year against No. 7 UCLA: “We’re the underdog,” he said.

“They are obviously a very hot and a very talented team. There’s just no question they are one of the best teams in America right now. So we’ve got our hands full.

“The game means a great deal to us, as I’m sure it does to them. Year in and year out, this is one of the most exciting games in America.”

*

USC’s standout sophomore class has some ties that bind.

It’s only their second season, but the class that includes receiver R. Jay Soward, offensive lineman Travis Claridge and linebacker Chris Claiborne has never lost to Notre Dame and never beaten UCLA.

They’ll enjoy their first winning season together this year, and are awaiting their first bowl game.

“You could relax now, but we have a chance to go 8-4 and start working on next year,” Claiborne said. “That’s what we need to do.”

*

Tailback LaVale Woods, who has been out the past six games after suffering a sprained ankle against Nevada Las Vegas on Oct. 4, probably won’t be able to play against UCLA even though he began practicing last week.

“I doubt it,” Robinson said. “He’s running. I don’t know about cutting.”

(BEGIN TEXT OF INFOBOX / INFOGRAPHIC)

NEXT FOR USC

WHO: UCLA

WHERE: Coliseum

TIME: Saturday, 12:30 p.m.

TV: Channel 7

RADIO: KLSX-FM (97.1): AM 1150