Hance Relishing His Chance

Most USC players looked forward to the three-day break that began Thursday, but junior quarterback Brandon Hance probably would not have minded if the Trojans just kept on practicing through the holiday.

Hance, a junior, moved up to No. 2 on the depth chart after freshman John David Booty broke his wrist against UCLA.

Hance, who was set back by injuries and illness throughout spring practice and training camp, split repetitions with starter Matt Leinart for three days this week and showed Coach Pete Carroll and offensive coordinator Norm Chow he would be ready if needed against Oregon State on Dec. 6.

“He did fine,� Chow said.

Hance, who completed two of six passes for 23 yards against UCLA, is hoping that recent form holds against Oregon State and that the Trojans have the game well in hand by the second half.

“I’d like to play, and I want to have all the preparation I can get,� Hance said. “Matt’s doing great, so I just want to be ready.�

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Freshman Reggie Bush, who returned a kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown against UCLA, ranks 10th in the nation in kickoff-return average.

Bush is averaging 28.07 yards a return.

Michael Waddell of North Carolina leads the nation at 31.67 yards a return.

-- Gary Klein