USC NOTEBOOK: ON THE RUN ONCE MORE.

Byline: Scott Wolf Daily News Staff Writer

Remember when USC's running game was the subject of ridicule a year ago?

The Trojans ranked 111th out of 112 Division I-A teams in rushing yardage just two weeks into the season, having gained 56 yards in 61 carries. USC rushed for only three first downs in the first two games and averaged 0.9 yards per carry.

Well, that embarrassment already appears in no danger of repeating this year.

According to the current NCAA statistics, USC ranks 69th overall, tied with Penn State and East Carolina. The Trojans gained 168 yards in their opener against Purdue.

USC coach Paul Hackett said he intends to use as many as four tailbacks against San Diego State this week: Chad Morton, Petros Papadakis, Frank Strong and Jabari Jackson.

``We had intended to go as deep as four against Purdue,'' Hackett said. ``But the biggest problem is we had no plays. We only had 64 plays in the game.''

Denmon, Douglas expected back: Offensive linemen Eric Denmon and Rome Douglas are both supposed to be back with the team today.

Denmon flew to Texas for a few days to be with his grandfather, who is seriously ill. Douglas had a ``personal issue'' to deal with, according to Hackett.

Night practice: USC got acclimated to night football Sunday by holding a workout from 8:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Howard Jones Field. The Trojans' game against San Diego State will start at 7:30 p.m.

Touchdown for Youth: The Los Angeles Sports Council will help sponsor the Touchdown for Youth promotion, which will allow about 2,000 disadvantaged children to attend the game. Organizers are seeking additional contributions of $25 for a game ticket and refreshment for each child.

Return to Long Beach: San Diego State coach Ted Tollner, who lived in Long Beach while coaching USC from 1983-87, has chosen to have the Aztecs stay there for this weekend's game.