STEWART MANDEL'S Extra Points

The decline of USC's once-dominant defense continues. After Hawaii rolled up 588 yards of offense in a 49--36 loss to the Trojans last Thursday, it's clear that USC's talent level has dipped—and NCAA-mandated scholarship reductions kick in next year... . Notre Dame did a lot of things differently in coach Brian Kelly's debut, a 23--12 victory over Purdue. One of the most important: The Irish, who averaged 55.5 yards per game in penalties last season, drew just two flags, for 15 yards.... Miami quarterback Jacory Harris(below) can thrust himself into the Heisman race if the 13th-ranked Hurricanes upset Ohio State on Saturday in Columbus. The strong-armed junior throws a fine deep ball but has struggled under pressure in the past, having thrown 17 picks last year.

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RICHARD C. LEWIS/ICON SMI (HARRIS)