Orange County Register

USC left guard Jeff Byers will participate in all the senior-related activities at the Coliseum on Saturday - even if he ends up doing them all over again.

As he prepares for what could be his final home game, Byers is waiting to hear back from the NCAA regarding his request for a sixth year of eligibility. He can’t wait forever, though.

“I’m pushing to find out the timeline,” Byers said. “The sooner the better.”

Byers, who missed almost all of the 2005 and ‘06 seasons because of injuries, said he will move on if there’s no decision by mid-December. Even if the NCAA does grant his request, he isn’t sure whether he’ll come back or enter the NFL draft.

“I need to prepare myself,” Byers said. “That’s why the timeliness is important. There has to be a time where I’m saying, I’m getting ready.”

Byers already has talked about his future with his family and coaches, and those discussions will intensify if the NCAA rules in his favor. Besides the possibility of playing pro football, Byers also is working toward a master’s degree in business.

In the meantime, it’s all about Notre Dame.

“I’m treating this like it’s my second-to-last week of college football,” Byers said.

More from the USC blog:

• USC football: Corp gaining ground on Mustain
• USC football: Sanchez braces for something new
• USC football: Injury updates as Notre Dame prep begins
• USC football: Maualuga, Mays among awards finalists
• USC football: LenDale White still can’t get it right
• USC football: This time it’s personal for Carroll
• Bowl poll: If not BCS title game, then where?
• USC football: Jinxing Oregon State
• USC football: Latest BCS standings crack up Carroll

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