Johnson returns to practice

LOS ANGELES -- Southern California receiver Ronald Johnson has returned to practice after breaking his collarbone in a preseason scrimmage.

Johnson was expected to be a starter for the No. 7 Trojans before he was injured in a mock game, one week before their season opener. The junior participated in full-speed drills Tuesday for the first time since the injury on Aug. 29.

USC coach Pete Carroll says Johnson is on schedule to play at Notre Dame on Oct. 17. The Trojans (4-1, 2-1 Pac-10) are off this week.

Johnson was the Trojans' third-leading receiver last season with 33 catches for 570 yards and eight touchdowns. David Ausberry has eight catches for 92 yards as a starter in Johnson's place.

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press