Waymond Jordan is emerging as a key piece in Lincoln Riley’s offense, proving you don’t have to be a big back to make a big impact. The sophomore tailback has shown a knack for catching passes out of the backfield, a skill that Riley’s system rewards and that Jordan has embraced with ease.
The sentiment around him was encapsulated by a fellow back last week: if you want playing time under Riley, you have to be able to catch the ball out of the backfield. Jordan has answered that challenge in stride, combining natural ball skills with a compact, durable frame that many players might not expect to translate into a versatile three-down role.
If the trend continues, Jordan is primed to be USC’s leading ball carrier this season and a fixture in all phases of the offense. His ability to contribute as a runner and receiver makes him a prime candidate to shoulder a large portion of the workload, especially in a system that rewards players who can do a little bit of everything.
Woody Marks made a similar impact as a pass catcher last year, and Jordan is expected to pick up where that production left off. If he maintains that level of contribution, Jordan will be counted on as a reliable option in the passing game as well as a steady hand in the backfield.
What to watch this season
– Jordan’s continued development as a receiving threat out of the backfield
– How USC manages the backfield rotation and preserves durability
– The degree to which Riley utilizes Jordan as a true three-down back
Summary emphasis
The storyline centers on Waymond Jordan expanding his role as a versatile, dual-threat back in a fast-paced offense. If he grows into a reliable presence in both rushing and receiving, USC’s offense could gain a dynamic edge this season, elevating the team’s potential for success.
A hopeful note
With Riley’s offensive philosophy and Jordan’s demonstrated hands, there’s a clear path for USC to maximize its backfield by keeping defenses off balance and creating favorable matchups in the passing game. If Jordan continues to develop, the Trojans’ offense could emerge as one of the most dynamic in college football.