The Trojans held their first of three practices at the Home Depot Center on Thursday as they continued preparations for the Rose Bowl. Among the developments:

• LB Keith Rivers worked with the first unit for the first time since injuring his ankle in the Cal game in early November. Rivers hopes to play against Illinois, although Kaluka Maiava should still get the start. If Rivers cannot go, freshman Malcolm Smith could also see some action.
• RB Chauncey Washington (hip) could not practice, and is still set to undergo an MRI exam in the near future. However, he expects to play in the Rose Bowl.
• Patrick Turner (leg bruise) and Chilo Rachal (knee) were also held out, but are set to start in the Rose Bowl. Rachal likely will be held out of practice until after Christmas.
• Freshman RB Marc Tyler has been earning praise from coaches and onlookers for his practice performances in recent weeks. Coach Pete Carroll indicated that Tyler still isn’t quite back to 100% after injuring his leg last fall while still in high school.

The team will practice in Carson again today and tomorrow, and are staying at a Santa Monica hotel for the long weekend. After Christmas, the Trojans will practice daily on campus.

USC linebacker Keith Rivers tries to be ready for Rose Bowl (LA Times)
USC running back Tyler has no plans to leave (OC Register)
USC’s Booty still has swelling in finger (Daily News)
Insider: Tupou wins team’s admiration (Rivals, $)
Home Depot Center Thursday Practice Report (Scout, $)