The USC Trojans entered a pivotal stretch of the 2025 season facing a significant challenge: their rushing attack, long a hallmark of the program, was suddenly forced to reinvent itself almost overnight. With key backs unavailable and a daunting upcoming game ahead, the Trojans’ ability to adapt and persevere is now under full display.
Injury blows shake the backfield
In October, the Trojans lost their two scholarship running backs for the foreseeable future. Waymond Jordan underwent ankle “tightrope” surgery, ruling him out of immediate play. Meanwhile, Eli Sanders hurt his knee during the game against Michigan Wolverines, ending his season. The timing couldn’t have been worse: before the injuries, USC’s rush attack was trending among the best in the country. Coach Lincoln Riley didn’t mince words: “That could almost be a death sentence,” he said, referring to losing both backs so suddenly.
Enter the unexpected hero
What followed could be described as a mix of grit and opportunity. Walk-on redshirt freshman King Miller — a preferred walk-on from Calabasas, California — emerged as the primary ball-carrier. Since taking over, Miller has averaged approximately 113 rushing yards per game, placing him among the nation’s most efficient backs. More impressive: among Power-Four backs with 90 + carries, he’s one of just two averaging better than seven yards per rush.
Riley praised Miller’s rise: “It’s gone remarkably well… I don’t know that anyone could have predicted that, to be completely honest.”
A critical test ahead
Now, with just two games remaining in the regular season, USC heads into one of its most challenging tests: a road trip to face the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Oregon ranks among the nation’s best at defending the run, allowing roughly 90 rushing yards per game.
The key question: Can USC’s makeshift running back room continue to drive its offense against one of the toughest front-lines in college football? If so, the Trojans remain alive for a shot at the College Football Playoff. If not, what once looked like a top-10 rushing season for USC may end up as a missed opportunity.
Why this matters
Depth and resilience: The Trojans are demonstrating the value of roster depth and walk-on opportunity. Miller’s rise underscores how quickly roles can shift in collegiate sports.
Strategic implications: USC’s offense must lean into its backfield to maintain balance and mask weaknesses along the line or in the passing game.
Program narrative: Historically, USC has emphasized explosive offense and star running backs. This season challenges them to win with a different template.
In short, the Trojans’ season now hinges on the performance of a young, unproven running back and a defense that must rise to the moment. Whether this becomes a story of triumph or of “what if” depends on how they respond in the next two critical outings.
