USC's Running Back Committee Shines in Week 0 Victory
Waymond Jordan returned from an ankle injury and carried eight times for 48 yards in USC's win over San José State. King Miller, who added 15 pounds, ran for 63 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. All five scholarship running backs saw meaningful snaps in the first half, including Riley Wormley's first career touchdown.
USC’s backfield rotation featured all five scholarship runners before halftime, a deliberate strategy to keep legs fresh in the season opener. Waymond Jordan’s return from last October’s ankle injury was steady, while King Miller’s offseason weight gain to 225 pounds showed in his physical style, breaking tackles on a key seven-yard run. Riley Wormley and Shaun Alston each scored their first career touchdowns, and freshman Deshonne Redeaux averaged 13 yards per carry on two attempts.
The Trojans leaned on the run early, with nine carries on their opening 13-play drive and 25 rushes versus 20 passes in the first half. Though no run exceeded 15 yards, the consistent ground game set up scoring chances. Head coach Lincoln Riley noted missed explosive opportunities but praised the steady production, a sign the committee approach could define USC’s offense this season.
This performance could signal a shift in USC’s offensive identity under Lincoln Riley, traditionally pass-heavy. A deep, physical running back room may reduce pressure on the quarterback and control game tempo, especially in Big Ten play. For fans and recruits, the visible rotation suggests playing time is attainable, potentially boosting roster stability. However, the lack of long runs hints that defenses might stack the box, testing whether the committee can sustain efficiency against tougher opponents.