He is the center of attention

Last November, when USC played Notre Dame at a sold-out Coliseum, Kristofer O’Dowd came in from Tucson to join more than 100 high school prospects soaking in the atmosphere of big-time college football.

He got to walk around the field before the game and walk through the Coliseum tunnel with players afterward, which left an indelible impression.

On Saturday night in front of 90,917 at the Coliseum, O’Dowd accomplished something no true freshman has achieved in USC history -- make the starting lineup at center. And what a solid performance he gave in the season opener against Idaho.

From the Trojans’ first offensive play, when he took out nose tackle Jonah Sataraka to help clear the way for a 33-yard run by C.J. Gable, O’Dowd proved to be efficient and effective during top-ranked USC’s 38-10 victory.

“This was a test for me,” O’Dowd said. “It’s flattering they called my name to start. I feel I did a pretty good job.”

Coach Pete Carroll could have switched the more experienced Jeff Byers from offensive guard to center as a last-minute replacement for the injured Matt Spanos, but he put his trust in O’Dowd, a 6-foot-5, 300-pounder who was a Parade All-American in high school and earned the right to start by practicing hard, listening and learning.

He and quarterback John David Booty were in sync during snaps, and O’Dowd appeared to mesh well with his linemates.

“Mentally, he got a lot of looks,” offensive line coach Pat Ruel said.

“I was proud of him. We lost two centers. We didn’t expect to be in this position. After watching him in practice and tonight, I feel real good.”

Other freshmen have started on the offensive line for USC in the past, but the center position requires a cerebral, versatile performer who doesn’t get rattled and can adjust to changing defenses. O’Dowd seemed to fulfill his assignment beyond expectations.

“He had to work out some kinks,” Byers said.

“Everything considered, he did well. There’s always room for improvement. He’s a young pup.”

O’Dowd is part of USC’s 18-member recruiting class that was ranked among the top three in the nation last February.

The players knew what they were getting into joining a program in which the competition is intense at every position.

“There’s so many guys who could be starting at any other school in the country,” freshman linebacker Chris Galippo said. “The competition every day is fierce.”

Last year, 12 freshmen played in USC’s opener. On Saturday, six freshmen made their college debuts, ending any chance of being able to redshirt unless they suffer an injury and are awarded a medical redshirt.

O’Dowd was the lone freshman starter, but others had their opportunities to play.

Running back Joe McKnight provided an early glimpse of his athleticism, catching a swing pass in the third quarter, reversing field and picking up 21 yards.

In the first half, he caught an eight-yard pass and ran three times for nine yards.

He also lost the ball on a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Everson Griffen was used extensively at defensive end.

Receiver Ronald Johnson had a three-yard run.

And linebackers Galippo and Malcolm Smith tried to make an impact on special teams.

“Wherever they need me, I’m willing to help out,” Galippo said.

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Eric.sondheimer@latimes.com