Marinovich May Miss Bowl Game

USC quarterback Todd Marinovich, who has been battling a severe inner ear infection, suited up for practice Friday for the first time in a week.

USC Coach Larry Smith said it’s “very possible” Marinovich won’t be ready to play when the 21st-ranked Trojans face 22nd-ranked Michigan State in the John Hancock Bowl at El Paso on Dec. 31.

Smith said the team’s coaches and medical staff were concerned because Marinovich had responded slowly to antibiotics prescribed for the ear ailment.

If Marinovich isn’t ready to play against Michigan State, fifth-year senior Shane Foley would take his place.