Dennis Misses Practice for Disciplinary Reasons

USC running back Hershel Dennis was removed from Tuesday’s morning practice for what Coach Pete Carroll called “disciplinary reasons.”

Dennis, a junior who averaged 4.8 yards a carry last season, reported for the first of the day’s two practices, but Carroll sent him back to the locker room.

Dennis also was absent from the afternoon practice. Carroll declined to comment on Dennis’ situation.

“We keep our issues in house,” Carroll said. “This is the same way we handle the situations with any team rule.... We handle things internally as we always do.”

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USC opens its season Aug. 28 against Virginia Tech, but if the Trojans were playing the Hokies today Carroll said sophomore Steve Smith and redshirt sophomore Chris McFoy would be the starting receivers.

Smith caught 17 passes for 319 yards and two touchdowns last season.

McFoy, who caught two passes for 23 yards in 2003, has capitalized on Mike Williams’ absence. He is expected to be part of a rotation that also includes freshman Dwayne Jarrett and redshirt junior William Buchanon.

An NCAA spokeswoman said Tuesday that final documents regarding Williams had not been received.

USC has petitioned for a progress-toward-degree waiver and reinstatement of eligibility for Williams.

Carroll said Sunday that the school would submit final documents to the NCAA early this week with hopes of receiving a decision a few days afterward.

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MRI exam results for defensive lineman Chris Barrett and safety Darnell Bing, both of whom have been sidelined because of shoulder problems, are expected today.... Wide receiver Derrick Jones, defensive lineman Thomas Herring, offensive lineman Chilo Rachal and tight end Eugene Germany -- all freshmen -- and junior college transfer Rashaad Goodrum, recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery, will not be allowed to practice until they are cleared by the NCAA Clearinghouse.... Quarterback Billy Hart practiced for the first time. Hart, a redshirt junior, missed spring practice while playing for the Trojan baseball team and participated in the National Baseball Congress World Series this summer.