USC and Oregon have been the two programs recruiting Michael Hutchings (Concord, Calif./De La Salle) the hardest in recent weeks, so it was no surprise that he was glued to his television from start to finish as the Trojans beat the Ducks 38-35.

"I thought that was one of the best games of the year," Hutchings said.

USC has been Hutchings' top school since it extended a scholarship offer this past spring and the linebacker has paid close attention to the Trojans this season. While much of the country was shocked that USC was able to keep up with Oregon, Hutchings wasn't.

"I knew since the Stanford game that they were back to the old Trojans a little bit," Hutchings said. "This game showed they're back to being a top-tier team in the country."

Hutchings has played outside linebacker, inside linebacker and safety for his high school team this season, and his ability to play multiple positions has become a big draw for the Trojans as well as the Ducks. Oregon is pushing the rover position -- currently manned by Eddie Pleasant -- as one that would suit Hutchings in that defense. USC has discussed all five positions -- three linebacker spots and both safety spots -- as potential destinations for Hutchings.

The main USC contact for Hutchings has been quarterback coach Clay Helton, but Hutchings said he is looking forward to sitting down with defensive coaches Ed Orgeron, Joe Barry and Sammy Knight in the coming months to discuss where he would fit defensively.

"I know they want smaller, faster 'backers playing the strong safety look," Hutchings said of USC. "That's something I like. And being able to play outside linebacker and strong safety is definitely a plus for me."

After a first-round bye, De La Salle begins its march through the playoffs this week, but Hutchings said he is looking forward to getting a jump on the recruiting process once the season concludes. He will set up unofficial visits to USC, UCLA and Oregon this winter/spring and will commit to a school during the summer in order to avoid dealing with recruiting during his senior season. He also said he is looking forward to seeing how USC linebacker commits Jabari Ruffin and Scott Starr fit into the picture during spring ball and summer workouts.

"USC is in my group of favorites," Hutchings said. "They are a whole-package school -- athletically, academically and geographically. Oregon is in that group of favorites also. They've proven to be a top team in the country and the defensive coordinator has ties to my school."