Mays may come out to play on Saturday

While the true freshman quarterback, Matt Barkley, has returned to practice and will play this Saturday against Washington State, it is the star Trojan on the other side of the ball who is still questionable for the game against the Cougars.

Not anymore.

All-American safety, Taylor Mays, who has been dealing with the difficulties of a sprained right knee and has been unable to participate in practice, has received a positive endorsement from head coach Pete Carroll.

“He's ready to play,” Carroll said. “Ready to play football.”

Mays originally sprained the knee in USC's impressive come-from-behind victory over the Ohio State Buckeyes when a teammate fell into his leg during one possession. Mays would finish the game, but the right knee sprain has kept him out of subsequent practices as well as the game against the Washington Huskies.

Getting Mays back on the field will be a huge boost to a Trojans squad that is coming off a disheartening loss to the Huskies. In that game, Drew McAllister filled in admirably for the injured Mays, playing consistently and not giving up any big plays in the secondary. Ultimately, it was a forgettable offensive display that included 0-for-10 on third down plays that would doom the Trojans.

While Coach Carroll is certain Mays will make it all the way back this Saturday, Mays is still leaving himself a little wiggle room. “I think I'm going to play. It's kind of 50/50” said the All-American safety.

One hopes for the Trojans sake that Mays is healthy and ready to make an appearance on the field for this Saturday's game against the Washington State Cougars.

For more information on the upcoming game, check out WSU Football | Five questions for USC and Five football questions for WSU.

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