SC NOTEBOOK: HACKETT STILL HOLDING STRINGS.

Byline: Scott Wolf Staff Writer

The supposed give-and-take relationship between USC coach Paul Hackett and offensive coordinator Hue Jackson on play-calling continues to be a work in progress.

During training camp, Hackett asserted that he would give more freedom to Jackson, but Hackett called all the plays against San Diego State.

``I reserve the right to call the plays,'' Hackett said.

It should be noted that Hackett let Jackson call the plays for the final three quarters against Hawaii. The difference: The Hawaii game was a blowout.

So what will happen against Oregon?

Hackett said that although he envisions giving more responsibility to Jackson, there probably would be no change in plans for this week. He added that he and Jackson ``continue to talk'' on the headsets and discuss plays, but he makes the final decision.

There are not always benefits to being the person in charge. Hackett was asked at the weekly Monday Morning quarterback meeting why a pass was called in the fourth quarter when San Diego State's Jermaine Watkins intercepted a Carson Palmer pass and returned the ball for a touchdown.

``Next question,'' he responded.

Jackson said he is looking forward to one day calling the plays, something he has yearned to do for the past two seasons.

``I hope that's the case. I hope I've earned his respect,'' Jackson said.

Abdul-Shaheed punished: Defensive end Shamsud-Din Abdul-Shaheed was scheduled to start against San Diego State but was replaced by Matt Childers because he violated team rules. Childers responded with six tackles.

Welch returns: Offensive tackle Matt Welch returned to practice Wednesday, but tests have not revealed the source of his stomach pains. Welch, who thought he might have gallstones, said he will play against Oregon.

Bring on the noise: Hackett has brought out loudspeakers in practice for the second straight year to prepare for Oregon. He said he wants to make sure the younger players are not shocked by the atmosphere at Autzen Stadium.

``The only reason I'm doing it is so when it starts to happen in the game, it won't be something foreign,'' Hackett said. ``This place is very loud. We jumped offsides too many times last year.''

Man of Steele? Linebacker Markus Steele tweaked his elbow Wednesday, apparently aggravating an injury originally suffered in training camp. Hackett said it will not affect him for the game.

Wide receiver Kareem Kelly sat out practice to rest a stiff back. Injured wide receiver Windrell Hayes (sprained ankle) continues to improve, but Hackett said he doesn't think Hayes will be ready by Saturday.

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PHOTO Matt Welch