USC football: Matt Barkley meets with Lane Kiffin and Pat Haden

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USC quarterback Matt Barkley and his parents met Monday with Coach Lane Kiffin and Athletic Director Pat Haden to discuss his impending decision about whether to turn pro or return to USC for a final season.

‘By no means did I come to any conclusions today,’ Barkley said in a statement. ‘It was just the start of us gathering the facts. There is a long way to go in this process and no timetable. When I make my decision, I will let everyone know.’

Barkley was not among the finalists announced Monday for the Heisman Trophy.

Wisconsin running back Monte Ball, Baylor quarterback Robert Griffin III, Stanford quarterback Andrew Luck, Louisiana State defensive back Tyrann Mathieu and Alabama running back Trent Richardson are finalists for an award that will be presented Saturday in New York.

Minutes after the announcement, Barkley wrote on his Twitter feed: ‘Congrats to all the Heisman finalists, what a great year of football!’

Later, in a statement he said: ‘Congratulations to all the Heisman finalists. They are all great players, and I wish them the best this Saturday and with the rest of their football careers. I thought we gave it a good run this year to get an invitation to New York for the ceremony, but more importantly I am really excited that our team’s accomplishments are being recognized.’

USC finished fifth in the final Associated Press media poll.

More later at latimes.com/sports.

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--Gary Klein