"His top two running backs had just been carted up the Coliseum tunnel, a nightmare scenario for a team that finally found its groove on the ground, when coach Lincoln Riley was asked at halftime how USC would move forward without the bulk of its backfield. He grinned. "I might have to carry the ball some," Riley quipped during NBC's broadcast."
"That timeline, if it holds, would put Jordan on path for a potential return before the Trojans' critical trip to Oregon, when they would presumably need him most. The prognosis was less positive for senior Eli Sanders, who was third on USC's offense in all-purpose yards when he left Saturday's win early in the first quarter with a knee injury. Sanders, who transferred to USC from New Mexico in the offseason, was ruled out for the season on Monday after just six games."
USC lost its top two running backs to injuries against Michigan, forcing reliance on backups and walk-ons. Waymond Jordan suffered an ankle injury, underwent surgery and is expected to miss four to six weeks. Eli Sanders suffered a knee injury and was ruled out for the season after six games. Walk-on King Miller delivered a breakout performance in the win over Michigan. USC's backfield depth is depleted as the Trojans face a difficult upcoming stretch including Notre Dame and Oregon. The coaching staff must adjust play-calling and rotation to compensate for reduced rushing options and preserve season goals.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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