True Freshman QB Matt Barkley will be under center on opening day
From day one, Pete Carroll loved the poise and grace of true freshman QB Matt Barkley. Since Barkley enrolled at SC, he has been battling Aaron Corp for the starting job. From the start, Corp had a leg up and a competitive advantage; however, that did not stop Barkley from continuing to impress the coaching staff and most importantly Carroll.
“He has exceeded all our expectations. He has all the physical ability, he has the mentality and temperament to handle the position, his personality is very well received by all the players and he’s extremely talented,” exclaimed Carroll. “At this point, he’s ready to be the guy for us.”
What more than likely sealed the deal was Corp’s absence while nursing his injured knee. Though he fully recovered, there was question about Corp’s mobility. Carroll did announce that this is not it for Corp. He, at anytime, can take back the #1 spot. For Barkley to stay atop the depth chart, he will have to continuously impress the coaches and he must have a solid performance opening weekend against San Jose State.
On a historical note, Barkley will be the first true freshman to start for the Trojans on opening day.
The question remains, is Carroll prematurely starting a true freshman? The answer to come September 12th, when SC travels to The Shoe.
