Big Day for McCullough

USC played its homecoming game last week. Trojan running back Sultan McCullough will play a personal one on Saturday.

McCullough, a senior tailback from Pasadena, played three games in the Rose Bowl for Pasadena Muir High. In 2000, he rushed for 105 yards and scored a touchdown in 26 carries for USC in a 38-35 victory over UCLA.

“I’ll have a lot of people there watching,” McCullough said Thursday. “I’m looking forward to having a couple big runs.”

McCullough will back up senior Justin Fargas for the fourth consecutive game, but he remains the Trojans’ leading rusher with 665 yards and has scored six touchdowns.

Last week against Arizona State, he broke a 59-yard run and finished with 69 yards in four carries.

USC could play in the Rose Bowl game on New Year’s Day if the Trojans defeat UCLA and Washington State loses to Washington and UCLA. The Trojans also could play in the Rose Bowl if they win their remaining games, and Washington State does the same and advances to the Fiesta Bowl.

Regardless of the outcome against UCLA, McCullough said he will honor a personal tradition on his exit from the stadium on Saturday.

“I walk home every time I play there, so I’m going to make that walk with a smile on my face,” McCullough said.

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Sam Cunningham, Vince Evans and Ron Yary were among dozens of former players who attended practice and a dinner afterward.... Coach Pete Carroll said receiver Mike Williams (thigh bruise) and other players nursing nagging injuries would be ready for the Bruins. “We’re in good enough shape,” Carroll said. “Everyone we’re counting on is going to play.”