USC freshman Barkley gets starting QB job

Freshman Matt Barkley was named No. 4 Southern California's starting quarterback on Thursday.

With an outstanding performance at camp, Barkley beat out sophomore Aaron Corp to get the start in the Trojans' season opener against San Jose State at the Coliseum on Sept. 5. Coach Pete Carroll unexpectedly announced his decision several hours before practice.

"He has exceeded all our expectations," Carroll said in a statement. "He has all the physical ability. He has the mentality and temperament to handle the position. ... At this point, he's ready to be the guy for us."

Corp, in his third year at USC, was named the Trojans' starter out of spring ball, but Barkley took advantage when Corp missed two weeks of workouts this month after breaking a small bone below his left knee Aug. 10.

* UNLV -- The Rebels received good news regarding defensive end Preston Brooks' left knee injury. The swelling went down and he wasn't limping Thursday.

Coach Mike Sanford said he was hopeful Brooks will play in the Sept. 5 opener against Sacramento State at Sam Boyd Stadium, and should know for certain this weekend.

"You've just got to see and make sure it doesn't flare back up," Sanford said.

Also, offensive lineman Doug Zismann has fully recovered from a concussion and has received clearance to fully participate in practices.

Tailback C.J. Cox is day to day with a left hamstring injury.

UNLV also decided to close Saturday's "mock game."

* TEXAS -- Texas coach Mack Brown handed the top running back spot to Vondrell McGee.

McGee and Fozzy Whittaker were the front-runners for the job for the No. 2 Longhorns. McGee pulled ahead when Whittaker missed several days with minor injuries.

McGee, a 205-pound junior, rushed for 376 yards and four touchdowns last season. Quarterback Colt McCoy led the Longhorns in rushing last season with 561 yards and 11 TDs.