Not sure how this episode is boring - it's developing the story, and with the last story line wrapping up, a new one needs to begin. Nothing wrong with that.
Carol is faking. Seems like the writers pretty much hit you over the head with it. Noah explains to Beth they only take in the weak. Daryl couldn't go in, but Carol could if she pulls the woe is me routine. She didn't even have to be hurt - just laying passed out in a spot to be found. It's not like the 'cops' are rocket scientists.
I'm assuming Carol and Daryl actually saw Noah escape. They grab Noah, he gives them the lowdown on what's going on inside. From there it's pretty easy - they put Carol inside to make it easier to keep Carol safe, look for ways to break out, and if Rick and company have to attack, work as the inside person to ensure chaos internally when it hits the fan. Having Carol inside is a very smart move, and greatly improves the chances of getting Beth out alive. Carol isn't in any danger once inside, as long as she does what they say, unlike, say, Terminus. Daryl and Noah head back to get the others and catch them up.
Seems pretty straight forward, and much preferable to the idea that Carol and Daryl are stupid enough to fall prey to these yokles. It also makes more sense that it's Noah with Daryl than Morgan at this point.
