As USC prepares for its pivotal matchup against Maryland, there’s one undeniable truth: Woody Marks is carrying the Trojans’ offense week in and week out.
While the Trojans have a roster full of talent, it’s Marks, a redshirt senior running back, who has consistently delivered under pressure, ensuring that USC remains competitive in tight games. Without his presence, the Trojan’s offense could easily look much different. Without his presence, the Trojan offense would struggle more than they have. Without his presence, the Trojans would have more than three losses.
Marks has been the steady rhythm of the offense, often single-handedly keeping the team in games. Head coach Lincoln Riley admitted, prior to the Penn State game, how crucial Marks’ contributions have been.
“He’s been exactly what we hoped,” Riley said. “He’s provided a steady veteran presence and done well running the ball, in pass protection and as a factor in the receiving game. I think he’ll continue to improve as he gets more settled with our team and system.”
When the passing game falters or the team faces critical moments, it’s Marks who steps up, shouldering the load. His 122 scrimmage yards per game are more than just stats; they’re the difference between a win and a potential loss.
“Woody is Woody, as you all can see,” redshirt junior wide receiver Kyron Hudson said. “He’s a hardworking player, quiet, but when he’s on the field, he’s going to work. We’re super blessed to have him on the team. He’s a great person, and I’m excited for him.”
That’s not an overstatement — Marks is the player USC leans on to stabilize the offense. When teammates struggle to execute their roles, Marks is there, breaking tackles, catching passes and grinding out those hard-fought yards.
Redshirt junior quarterback Miller Moss echoed such a sentiment.
“Woody’s been phenomenal for us,” Moss said. “He’s a really tough player, a really tough kid and just a guy I love playing with and obviously a heck of a player.”
It’s clear that Marks has been a key contributor in difficult games like LSU and Michigan. His ability to grind out yards and keep USC’s offense moving has kept the team afloat, often masking deeper struggles. In a season where inconsistency has clearly plagued other areas of the team, Marks has evidently been the lone constant and the team would likely unravel without him. The reliance on his playmaking abilities is not just out of convenience — it’s out of necessity.
Marks has proven time and again that he can handle the workload and deliver under pressure.
“You might get five carries, but in the summer, you’re working like you’re getting 50 carries,” Marks said, reflecting on his mindset. “We hold ourselves to a higher standard... we try to go over 150 [yards].”
Looking ahead, the hope is that USC will recognize the need to shift toward a run-focused game plan. By leaning more heavily on Marks and the ground game, the Trojans could alleviate pressure on the passing attack and create a more balanced offense.
If USC is to thrive, it’s time to embrace what has been clear all season — Woody Marks is its anchor, and running the ball through him could be the key to success.