Southern California is looking into whether it may have violated NCAA recruiting rules while pursuing highly rated recruit Joe McKnight, a university official said.

McKnight signed a national letter of intent with USC on Wednesday and made comments during a news conference that seemed to suggest communications involving former Trojans star Reggie Bush, who is now with the New Orleans Saints.

Former players are forbidden from telephoning prospective recruits, their relatives or guardians.

"We're aware of it, and we are looking into it," sports information director Tim Tessalone said late Thursday.

USC coach Pete Carroll denied any call took place.

During the news conference, McKnight said Carroll set up a conference call so he could talk to Bush and ease concerns USC might face sanctions.

The NCAA and the Pac-10 Conference are investigating whether Bush or his family received "improper benefits" from agents while he was playing for USC.

Wisconsin

Coach Bret Bielema was rewarded for his highly successful first season with a new five-year, $7.5 million contract. Bielema guided the Badgers to a 12-1 record after taking over from Barry Alvarez.

Elsewhere

West Virginia coach Rich Rodriguez, Navy coach Paul Johnson, Oregon coach Mike Bellotti, New York Jets offensive line coach Tony Wise and Notre Dame offensive coordinator Mike Haywood are the headline speakers at the Pittsburgh Coach of the Year Clinic March 2-4 at the Radisson Hotel, Green Tree. Call 412-731-0362 or visit www.nikecoyfootball.com.