USC star running back Joe McKnight is still in Los Angeles filling out paperwork as his teammates prepare for Saturday's Emerald Bowl in San Francisco. McKnight is under investigation for possible NCAA rules violations after he was allegedly seen driving an SUV that was registered to a Southern California businessman.
"There have been raised some issues that the compliance office is taking very seriously," USC head coach Pete Carroll said Tuesday. "They felt like it was best to keep Joe (in Los Angeles) until we know the facts."
If McKnight is not able to play on Saturday, it would be a major blow to the Trojans. The junior led USC with 1,014 rushing yards this season to go along with eight touchdowns.
The Trojans are already without tight end Anthony McCoy, offensive tackle Tyron Smith, and defensive lineman Averell Spicer, who have all been declared academically ineligible for the game.
The Emerald Bowl kicks off Saturday at 5:00 pm at AT&T Park in San Francisco.
