Matua, Fargas Probably Out

Fred Matua, who was on track to become the first true freshman in six years to start an opener on the offensive line for USC, did not practice Friday because of a bruised knee and might lose his spot for Monday’s game against Auburn.

Matua suffered the injury Thursday while blocking on a pass play during a two-minute drill. He said he was sore but hoped to play against Auburn.

USC Coach Pete Carroll said he would wait a day or two before making a decision about Matua’s status. Senior Derek Graf, who practiced as the backup center throughout training camp, worked in Matua’s place with the first unit.

“Derek has been around a long time, he’s adept at our communications and system and what we’re calling,� Carroll said. “With all the work he’s done at center, he has to be in charge of a lot of stuff.�

Senior tailback Justin Fargas, who strained his right hamstring before the Trojans’ first scrimmage on Aug. 17, also did not practice Friday after aggravating the injury on the same play Matua was hurt. Fargas caught the pass, accelerated to full speed and grabbed his right leg after he was knocked to the ground.

Fargas’ availability for Auburn was questionable before the setback. On Friday, Carroll intimated Fargas would not play.

“We don’t want to push it,� Carroll said. “We have the long break after this game that will give him a great chance to be 100% next time out.�

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Senior quarterback Carson Palmer showed no ill effects from a foot injury that forced him to limp off the field after practice on Thursday. He participated in drills and moved without noticeable discomfort.

Freshman wide receiver Mike Williams was not wearing the protective plastic boot that encased his sprained left ankle on Thursday. He ran lightly and will be evaluated daily, Carroll said.

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Freshman Hershel Dennis and senior Sultan McCullough will return kickoffs against Auburn, Carroll said.