Injuries, academics and freshman QBs don’t bother USC coach Carroll ahead of opener

Coach Carroll not troubled by Trojans’ questions

LOS ANGELES — Even with injuries piling up and nervous anticipation building around his freshman quarterback, Southern California coach Pete Carroll only seems to get more excited about the season ahead.

It’ll take more than a lengthy injury list, an academic disappointment and a rookie passer to discourage the perpetually optimistic Carroll, whose fourth-ranked Trojans open the season Saturday at the Coliseum against San Jose State.

Carroll chose his starting tailback Tuesday, naming Joe McKnight to the spot. The honor doesn’t mean much, since the Trojans likely will play four tailbacks extensively.

Carroll also remains confident in quarterback Matt Barkley, who will make his first college appearance after winning the job in camp.