Oct. 12--USC center Max Tuerk, the most experienced member of the offensive line, will be sidelined the rest of the season because of a knee injury, the school announced Sunday.
Tuerk was injured Thursday during the Trojans' 17-12 defeat by Washington. The injury was initially announced as a sprain, but USC said Sunday that Tuerk suffered a torn knee ligament.
Sophomore Toa Lobendahn, who replaced Tuerk against Washington, is expected to start at center on Saturday against Notre Dame at Notre Dame Stadium.
Lobendahn also has started at both guard spots and left tackle.
Defensive lineman Claude Pelon suffered a knee sprain against Washington and is doubtful for the Notre Dame game.
Receiver Steven Mitchell Jr. is questionable because of an ankle injury. Mitchell did not practice Sunday.
Cornerback Iman Marshall, who suffered an abdominal injury against Washington, practiced Sunday and is expected to play.
