QB Sanchez getting to work
USC players get a couple of weeks off following the Rose Bowl before beginning off-season work, but quarterback Mark Sanchez is already working to seize the starting job for next season.
"I'm not waiting, this is my last day as a backup," Sanchez said.
Sanchez will battle Arkansas transfer Mitch Mustain for the starting spot. Freshman Aaron Corp is a longshot candidate to replace John David Booty.
Mustain started eight games for Arkansas in 2006, but Sanchez enjoys frontrunner status because he is currently more familiar with the offense and started three games for the Trojans this past season.
"Nothing substitutes for experience," Sanchez said. "That gives me more than a leg up. I have no doubt I can play for this school."
Sanchez completed 69 of 114 passes for 695 yards with seven touchdowns and five interceptions. He led the Trojans to wins over Arizona and Notre Dame and lost to Oregon.
Rachal update: Offensive line coach Pat Ruel said he was waiting for a decision from offensive guard Chilo Rachal regarding a possible early departure for the NFL draft, but remained adamant against agents advising players.
"These agents say you're a first-rounder. They say it every year," Ruel said. "There are no evaluations yet. It's a joke.
"You can never get back being an All-American or getting your degree. These agents told (offensive guard) Fred Matua he was going on the first day (of the draft) and (offensive tackle) Winston Justice he was going in the first round."
Matua was drafted in the seventh round in 2006, while Justice went in the second round the same year.
Ruel and USC coach Pete Carroll said Rachal's draft value is decreased because he is a guard and not a tackle.
Louisville calling?: Trojans secondary coach Demetrice Martin is a candidate for an assistant coaching position at Louisville. Ron English, formerly at Michigan, was hired as Louisville's defensive coordinator on Thursday.
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