The ingredients for a breakout year
Waymond Jordan, a key running back for the USC Trojans, is preparing for a 2026 season that could redefine his career. After a promising 2025 campaign that yielded 576 rushing yards and five touchdowns, Jordan’s trajectory was interrupted by an injury that ended his campaign early, but the experience left a clear imprint of his explosive potential.
The Trojans enter the new season with a major advantage: all five starters on the offensive line return, providing continuity, chemistry and a solid foundation for the ground game. This stability allows Jordan to focus on leveraging his speed and vision rather than adapting to new personnel.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava’s strong passing performance in 2025 adds another layer of balance to the offense, creating more play‑action opportunities and forcing defenses to respect the vertical threat. The combination of a potent passing attack and a revitalized rushing scheme positions Jordan to see an increased workload and more favorable defensive alignments.
Competing in the Big Ten, Jordan will face familiar foes from across the Midwest and East Coast. The schedule includes matchups that pit the Trojans against traditional powerhouses such as Michigan State University, the University of Michigan and Purdue University, as well as non‑conference contests with Texas Christian University. Each game offers a chance to showcase his ability to stay healthy and produce big numbers.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Jordan’s personal goal is straightforward: remain healthy, capitalize on the offensive line’s continuity and help the Trojans climb the conference rankings. If he can translate his 2025 flashes into sustained production, he could become one of the most productive backs not only in the Big Ten but across the nation.
Key figures surrounding the project
Coach Lincoln Riley continues to shape the Trojans’ offensive philosophy, emphasizing a balanced attack that maximizes Jordan’s skill set. Meanwhile, teammates such as Tanook Hines, Terrell Anderson, Elijah Paige, Tobias Raymond, Kilian O’Connor, Alani Noa and Justin Tauanuu provide depth and competition that should keep Jordan sharp throughout the season.