SC NOTEBOOK: FIRST WEEK `TOUGH' ON FRESHMAN.

Byline: Scott Wolf  Staff Writer

Wide receiver Whitney Lewis was considered the gem of USC's recruiting class, but even he has labeled his first week of practices as a ``disappointment.''

For several reasons, Lewis seemed to be in a funk and hasn't displayed any of the jaw-dropping plays that made him a Parade Magazine All-American at St. Bonaventure High in Ventura.

``It's kind of tough being a freshman,'' Lewis said. ``Everyone's trying to keep me confident. It's not high school where you can make a catch and run 90 yards. You have to take it one step at a time.''

One immediate problem is Lewis' size. He weighed 240 pounds two weeks ago but has been placed on a diet by USC and lost 12 pounds.

``They really want me down to 220,'' Lewis said. ``I think (I gained weight because) I was more in the weight room than on the field this summer.''

Several sources say Lewis also has expressed second thoughts about coming to USC instead of Florida State. He wanted to sign with the Seminoles in February but his mother refused to sign a letter-of-intent and forced him to attend USC.

``At first I had my doubts, but it's a good family atmosphere,'' Lewis said. ``I'm here where I guess I'm supposed to be.''

--First contact: USC practiced in full pads for the first time Sunday, and the biggest impression was made by freshman tailback Reggie Bush, who had several long runs, including a 27-yard touchdown.

``This will give me a lot of confidence for the season,'' Bush said. ``Before I came here I felt it would be a big challenge, but if the offense is clicking, the sky's the limit.''

Quarterbacks Matt Leinart, Matt Cassel and Brandon Hance played and none stood out.

--No Booty: Freshman quarterback John David Booty experienced back spasms at the beginning of practice and was unable to play.

``I thought it would be best not to push it,'' Booty said.

--Open competition: USC coach Pete Carroll said kicker Ryan Killeen is being challenged by freshman walk-on Mario Danelo. Neither was particularly effective Sunday.

--A step up: Freshman offensive lineman Drew Radovich spent some time working with the first unit, with Jacob Rogers (foot) and Eric Torres (ankle) still out.

--Injury report: Offensive lineman John Drake became dehydrated and was unable to practice. Part of the problem is that Drake weighs 345 pounds.

``If he drives past a Burger King, he's dieting,'' Carroll said.

Tailback LenDale White did not practice because of a sprained wrist.

Scott Wolf, [phone]

scott.wolf(at)dailynews.com