Freshman Matua Looking at a Redshirt

In August, Fred Matua was on his way to becoming the first freshman in six years to start an opener on the offensive line for USC.

On Tuesday, Matua and Coach Pete Carroll said he was instead on track to redshirt.

Matua, who has been hobbled because of a bruised right knee suffered on Aug. 29, will not play Saturday against No. 17 Washington State and will sit out the rest of the season if he is not able to return for the Oct. 12 game against California, Carroll said.

“This is kind of his last shot to be able to play this season,” Carroll said.

Matua worked with the first unit during training camp after senior guard Zach Wilson strained his foot. He injured his knee a few days before the opener and alternated with senior Derek Graf against Auburn.

Matua did not play against Colorado, played as a reserve against Kansas State and sat out last week’s victory over Oregon State.

“It’s frustrating, but I want to give my leg that time to rest,” Matua said.

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Sophomore running back Darryl Poston said his back pain eased after a spinal epidural injection on Monday, but he still plans to redshirt.... Defensive end Omar Nazel (sore shoulder) and defensive tackle Shaun Cody (left hip flexor) sat out most of practice but are expected back today.... Left tackle Jacob Rogers (strained right knee) participated in light drills.... Receiver Sandy Fletcher (strained ankle ligaments) will not play against Washington State.... Freshman receiver Chris McFoy, a receiver from Chino, may travel to Pullman, Wash., and play on special teams, depleted because of injuries.... Cornerback Ronald Nunn, who tore knee ligaments against Kansas State, will wear a knee brace for three weeks after undergoing surgery last week.