USC Trojans quarterback JT Daniels has not cleared concussion protocol and his status for Saturday’s game against Arizona State remains in doubt, coach Clay Helton said Thursday.
“It’s 50-50 at best even if he’s cleared and probably leaning more toward not,” Helton said.
Daniels, a true freshman, was allowed to throw on Thursday, Helton said, but has not been medically cleared for contact since suffering a concussion against Utah last Saturday.
If he is unable to play, third-string quarterback Jack Sears will start. Backup quarterback Matt Fink fractured three ribs in the 41-28 loss to the Utes and will be out for a few weeks.
Helton will receive an update Friday from the team’s medical staff, but did not indicate when he’ll officially settle on a starter.
Sears, who succeeded former USC star Sam Darnold in high school, competed with both Daniels and Fink in training camp before landing at third on the depth chart. He has not attempted a pass at the college level.