Despite the absence of key running backs Gaynor Sanders and Austin Jordan, USC’s King Miller has emerged as a vital asset for the Trojans, showcasing his skills by rushing for over 100 yards in two separate games. USC head coach Lincoln Riley recently commended the team’s adaptability in light of these challenges, emphasizing the unexpected success of the offense amidst significant changes.
“It’s gone remarkably well, I don’t know if anyone could’ve predicted that to be completely honest,” Riley noted. “To lose what we lost and on top of that all the reshuffling on the offensive line that we’ve had, normally that can be almost a death sentence for an offense.”
Sanders, unfortunately, is out for the season due to a knee injury, while Jordan, who suffered an ankle injury, is not expected to play against the Oregon Ducks this Saturday. Initially, Jordan was assessed to be sidelined for four to six weeks, indicating he is edging closer to a return.
Miller’s contributions have been particularly pivotal in key matchups. During USC’s dramatic second-half comeback against the Iowa Hawkeyes in week 12, he was instrumental, carrying the ball 19 times for 83 yards. His performance in significant games has been noteworthy; in crucial victories against ranked opponents like No. 18 Michigan and Nebraska, Miller surpassed 120 rushing yards in both encounters.
As the Trojans prepare for their matchup against Oregon, the ability of Miller to maintain this level of performance is crucial for their success. The team’s resilience, highlighted by Miller’s standout plays, brings a sense of optimism as they move forward, showing that even in the face of adversity, the Trojans can compete at a high level.