USC Running Back Tre Madden Out for Season
USC running back Tre Madden, who had been a revelation in his new position after switching from linebacker at the start of spring practice, is out for the 2012 season with a torn ligament in his left knee, according to the USC athletic department.
Madden was helped off of the field during Thursday's practice after he tried to cut and went down to the ground without contact.
Madden played in all 12 games during the 2011 season as a freshman, seeing time as a backup linebacker and on special teams.
The Trojan coaching staff switched Madden to offense at the start of the spring to add depth to the running back position. Senior Curtis McNeal and sophomore D.J. Morgan are the only returning Trojans with experience at the tailback position.
The coaches liked Madden especially for his size; his 6-foot, 220-pound frame gave the Trojans a power running back option that both McNeal (5-7, 190 lb.) and Morgan (5-10, 190 lb.) don't provide.
USC coach Lane Kiffin had been very complimentary of Madden throughout spring practice. Kiffin had even tried out Madden at the quarterback position in the team's Wildcat scheme during Saturday's scrimmage.
With Madden out injured, redshirt freshman running back Javorious "Buck" Allen (6-0, 215 lb.) could be expected to take on more carries this season.
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