USC tailback Tre Madden is in the final stretch.
The fifth-year senior, who was sidelined because of injuries for much of his college career, has missed only one game this season because of knee soreness.
Interim coach Clay Helton is intent on making sure Madden is available for the Trojans' four remaining regular-season games.
"We treat him like a pro and try to protect him and get him to the game," Helton said after Thursday's practice.
Madden's workload is light on Tuesday and Wednesdays. Helton said it increases a bit on Thursdays.