Lane Kiffin has high expectations of Matt Barkley.
Not surprising...
Even if there isn't a QB controversy, Barkley is being challenged.
Kiffin said freshmen Cody Kessler and Max Wittek have higher percentages through 11 training-camp practices. Kiffin attributed part of that to Barkley being more aggressive. Still, his completion rate in the first scrimmage – 50 percent – isn’t what Kiffin is looking for.
"We really want to see him complete the balls tomorrow," Kiffin said, "really come out of this game at 70 percent or better."
We have discussed Barkley in the past.
Many of us expect Barkley to be at a certain level as a 3-year starter.
Kessler and Wittek are capable but certainly not ready to take the reins yet.
I get it that the defense knows Barkley's tendencies, so picks will happen, but Barkley needs to tighten things up. The defense owned the first half of scrimmage #2. The defense always has a leg up on the offense during camp, sooner or later the offense will kick in but it has to start with Barkley.
Going to be a long season if things don't improve.