Booty out indefinitely
John David Booty has waited three years to become the starting quarterback at USC, but after receiving an MRI Wednesday because of back spasms, the redshirt junior was informed by team doctors that his wait just got a little bit longer.
Booty, who completed 12 of 15 passes before injuring his back during 7-on-7 drills Tuesday, may miss the rest of spring practice.
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While the official prognosis of his injury remains undetermined, USC offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin said there was concern that Booty may have injured a disk.
Tonight, sources close to Booty revealed that the quarterback has a moderated herniated disk.
That diagnosis comes with optimism that Booty will not need surgery. If no further damage is detected, Booty would still be sidelined for at least two weeks.
Booty played in 10 games last fall, completing 27 of 42 passes for 327 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions.
In Booty's absents, redshirt freshman Mark Sanchez, redshirt junior Mike McDonald and walk-on Kevin Livermore will carry the load at quarterback.
USCFootball.com will have more on John David Booty's injury later.