SAN FRANCISCO - USC's leading running back has rejoined the team.

According to a statement on the university's website, Joe McKnight is now in San Francisco with the rest of his teammates, and he's expected to rejoin the team when the Trojans practice for the final time Thursday.

"Joe did everything he needed to do compliance-wise in L.A., so it was the right thing to get him up here right away," Pete Carroll said. "Compliance hasn't made a final ruling, but this is a most favorable sign."

McKnight arrived in San Francisco late Wednesday night.

McKnight's eligibility has been in question since a L.A. Times report Friday brought questions to light about McKnight's use of a 2006 Land Rover owned by a Santa Monica businessman.

McKnight hasn't been cleared to play in the Emerald Bowl, but his return to the team seems to be a step in that direction.

"We'll just play it out and see what happens from here," Carroll said. "In the meantime, it's great to have Joe back with us."

If McKnight is unable to play, USC would start Allen Bradford at tailback, and C.J. Gable would be the backup.