Bush’s Plans Won’t Hinge on Heisman

Two days after returning to the forefront of Heisman Trophy discussion with his record-setting performance against Fresno State, USC running back Reggie Bush said that if he won the award it would weigh only partially into his decision about whether to turn pro.

“It definitely won’t be the main deciding factor,” Bush said Monday after participating in a short practice.

Bush, however, said health could affect his decision. The junior from San Diego had arthroscopic shoulder surgery before spring practice.

“It’s been bothering me through the season,” he said. “It’s one of those things you never know. You don’t know if you’ll be able to just rest. Is it a rest factor or do you actually need surgery?”

Last January, Heisman Trophy winner Matt Leinart announced he would pass up the opportunity to turn pro. The quarterback had elbow surgery less than two weeks later.

Bush rushed for 294 yards and amassed a Pacific 10 Conference-record 513 all-purpose yards in the Trojans’ 50-42 victory Saturday at the Coliseum. He scored on runs of 45 and 50 yards and also had a 65-yard run.

“It would have been nice to have broken a couple kicks to put the icing on the cake,” he said.

*

A spokesman for the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office said a court appearance for Rey Maualuga scheduled for today has been vacated because the case is still under investigation.

Maualuga was booked on suspicion of misdemeanor battery and released on his own recognizance Nov. 1 after he allegedly punched another man at a Halloween party near campus.

“No decision has been made,” spokesman Frank Mateljan said.

Mateljan said the city attorney’s office has up to one year from the date of arrest to decide whether to file charges.

*

USC will practice today and Wednesday before breaking for three days for the Thanksgiving holiday. The Trojans resume practice Sunday.... Coach Pete Carroll said linebacker Keith Rivers and receiver Patrick Turner, who suffered hamstring injuries last Saturday, would rest this week.