Nothing like Thursday night football for the Trojans

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CORVALLIS, Ore -- Some might wonder why USC would agree to travel to this Pacific 10 Conference outpost to play a Thursday night league opener.

The answer: It’s like a hitting a trifecta for the Trojans.

First, it’s a nice payday from ESPN.

Then there’s the matter of exposure. As the only college game on national television tonight, all eyes will be on the Trojans, especially those of potential recruits from Florida and other talent-rich states.

Coach Pete Carroll sees games such as this one as a way to put on a show and build a brand name with the next wave of talent. It’s actually a double dose of recruiting because USC coaches can attend high school games on Friday and Saturday.

Tonight’s game would not have been made, of course, if USC had played last Saturday. But the open date after the Ohio State game already gave quarterback Mark Sanchez and the Trojans extra time to prepare for the Beavers -- and by moving the game to tonight, they also get extra time to heal and prepare for Oregon on Oct. 4.

-- Gary Klein