USC football: Pete Carroll says Matt Barkley remains the starting quarterback

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

Freshman Matt Barkley, who had four turnovers Saturday in USC’s 55-21 loss to Stanford, will remain the Trojans’ starting quarterback, Coach Pete Carroll said Sunday.

Carroll said he and his staff have a ‘clear thought’ that Barkley gives the Trojans the best chance to win.

‘We see the potential, the playmaking, the mentality and all the stuff we’re looking for,’ Carroll said.

Barkley completed 21 of 31 passes for 196 yards and a touchdown against Stanford, but he lost a fumble and had three passes intercepted. The Cardinal converted every turnover into touchdowns.

Barkley has passed for 11 touchdowns with 10 interceptions this season.

Sophomore Aaron Corp and junior Mitch Mustain will get more snaps during bye-week practices, but when asked if he was considering replacing Barkley, Carroll said, ‘No, he needs to keep playing.’

I’ll have more later at latimes.com/sports

-- Gary Klein