Schweiger May Start

Freshman defensive end Jeff Schweiger apparently took full advantage of USC’s bye week.

Coach Pete Carroll said Thursday that Schweiger “has a great chance” to start against Colorado State when the Trojans resume their schedule on Sept. 11.

“He brings us terrific speed off the edge,” Carroll said.

Schweiger, who had a sack in the Trojans’ season-opening victory over Virginia Tech, worked with the first unit for most of the week because Frostee Rucker was resting a sore toe.

“Frostee being nicked and missing this week -- that didn’t help him at all,” Carroll said.

Carroll also said that safety Scott Ware could start if Darnell Bing’s shoulder does not improve.

The Trojans are off today and also Saturday and Sunday. Most members of the coaching staff will be recruiting locally or across the country, but players received strict instructions to relax.

Quarterback Matt Leinart did not need prodding.

“I’m not going to do anything except maybe watch some football on Saturday,” he said. “I’m not going out or anything. Just rest.”

-- Gary Klein