Time for deeds, not words in big game

LOS ANGELES --- Southern California safety Kevin Ellison has had enough of the hype. He's ready for some action.

"I don't really care. I'm tired of talking about it," Ellison said after being asked -- again -- about injured Ohio State star Chris "Beanie" Wells. "If he's in there, good for him. You want to play their full squad. We're going to play whoever they bring.

"It's time to play. It's time to hone in and get down to it. It's going to be rocking at the Coliseum."

No doubt about that. Tonight, No. 5 Ohio State plays at No. 1 Southern California in the most highly anticipated September college football game in years.

That pretty much says it all.

A sellout crowd of 93,607 will be on hand at the Los Angeles Coliseum, with some paying big bucks to be there. According to ticket distributor StubHub, it's selling tickets for an average of $405 apiece.

The Trojans have won 38 of 39 at home and haven't lost a non-conference game since 2001.

The Trojans (1-0) will be playing their first game since an impressive 52-7 victory Aug. 30 at Virginia. Ohio State (2-0) has beaten in-state opposition Youngstown State 43-0 and Ohio University 26-14.

Wells, who rushed for 1,609 yards and 15 touchdowns last season, injured his right foot in the opener and without him, the Buckeyes had to rally to beat the Bobcats last weekend.

Ohio State coach Jim Tressel said early in the week that Wells would play, but it was a different story Thursday, when he said the junior was doubtful because of lingering soreness in his foot.

"Doubtful doesn't mean he's not playing," Southern Cal coach Pete Carroll said. "I'll be surprised if he's not out there."

Southern Cal defensive coordinator Nick Holt said the Trojans face a difficult challenge whether Wells plays or not.

"They've got a veteran offensive line, four of the five starters are back," Holt said. "They're dangerous no matter what because they're very experienced up front. If you don't stop the run against these guys, they'll get after you, they'll make you pay."

USC is an 11-point favorite over the Buckeyes in the first game between the teams since 1990. USC has an 11-9-1 record in the series that dates back to the days of coaches John McKay and Woody Hayes.