Even tackling the extra forum for reader questions today and to no surprise Matt Barkley is part of the conversation.

Q: MRSAM said:

Any news on how USC will fill the defensive backs coach spot and if they have graduate assistant Sammy Knight become the defensive back coach, who will take the graduate assistant spot?

A: I know Lane Kiffin’s been trying to figure out what to do with that spot and Knight is under consideration. But Kiffin might not be able to make a final decision until the end of the month with bowl games and the NFL season still going if he wants to hire a pro coach.

Q: tom_floyd said:
What’s the latest with Marqise Lee sharing his talents with KO’s basketball team?

A: The basketball coaches have not spoken to Kiffin yet about it. They may be resigned to the fact Lee’s big season means he will concentrate on football.

Q: bushwhite said:
Scott

Being that Kiffin said “If Matt Barkley leaves i am going to join Pete Carroll’s staff in Seattle” do you still say we will be a top 15 team next year with Kessler at QB? All 3 backup QB’s have no experience at all how would you see the offense next year?

handoff left handoff right bubble screen punt?

A: Yes, I do believe USC is a top 15 team regardless. Matt Barkley had a very good season but he also had some games (ASU, Cal, Washington) to name a few that were not so great. A new quarterback is going to have the best receiving duo in the nation and all those tight ends. Plus, I believe USC’s offense is back to the point where it’s more the system than the quarterback. So Kessler (or Wittek) will be able to run the offense fine.