LOS ANGELES (AP) — Quarterback Matt Barkley has watched Southern California’s first practice of the week on crutches with his sprained left ankle in a walking boot.
Barkley says he still hopes to play Saturday against Notre Dame despite the serious ankle injury that kept him out of Tuesday night’s practice.
Barkley was hurt late in the first half of USC’s loss at Oregon State last weekend.
Coach Lane Kiffin says he wouldn’t hesitate to play Barkley if he’s healthy, even if the quarterback misses the entire week of preparation for the Irish.
If Barkley can’t go, senior backup Mitch Mustain will start his final game at the Coliseum. Mustain has played sparingly in three seasons at USC.
