Home / Sports / USC Football Countdown: 7 Days with QB Matt Barkley
USC Football Countdown: 7 Days with QB Matt Barkley
23 Aug
Summary
- Barkley broke USC records for passing yards and touchdowns.
- He stayed at USC despite sanctions and coaching changes.
- His NFL career spanned 11 years and 11 different teams.
As USC prepares for its 2026 season opener, a look back at former quarterback Matt Barkley is featured. Barkley made history in 2009 as the first true freshman to start a season opener for USC.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including coaching changes and NCAA sanctions, Barkley remained loyal to USC. He led the team to a strong 2011 season, culminating in notable victories. Barkley returned for his senior year aiming for a national championship, breaking USC's records for passing yards and touchdowns.
His NFL career began after a shoulder injury dropped him to the fourth round of the 2013 draft. Barkley spent 11 years in the league, with his most notable stint as backup to Josh Allen in Buffalo. He made seven career NFL starts, primarily with the Chicago Bears.
