Quentin Joyner, a standout running back from USC, has made an impression during his two seasons with the Trojans, showcasing his potential and skill when given opportunities. In 2024, he accumulated 478 yards from 63 carries, averaging an impressive 7.6 yards per attempt, ranking fifth among running backs with at least 50 carries. As a freshman in 2023, Joyner rushed for 125 yards on 18 carries, averaging 6.9 yards per carry. Despite his impressive numbers, Joyner has been a backup to Woody Marks, and with Marks moving on after a strong season, Joyner was expected to take over the lead role. However, it appears that Joyner is now looking to transfer, with reports indicating he is likely to leave Southern California for a fresh start at Ohio State.
Joyner recently visited Ohio State’s campus and posted a picture on his Instagram, fueling speculation about his potential move to the Buckeyes. As of now, On3 Sports lists him as likely to join Ohio State for the 2025 season, and the momentum for this transfer is growing. The Buckeyes are in need of a new running back following the expected departure of Quinshon Judkins, who has been a key player for Ohio State this season, rushing for 805 yards and eight touchdowns while splitting carries with senior TreVeyon Henderson. Judkins is projected to enter the NFL draft, likely as a second-round pick, which has opened the door for Ohio State to seek a replacement. Joyner, with his proven ability and potential, could be the perfect fit to step into this role.
While this potential transfer would be a significant gain for Ohio State, it would be a major loss for USC and head coach Lincoln Riley. Riley is already facing the prospect of losing several key players, including quarterback Miller Moss, which could significantly affect the Trojans’ roster. Riley’s comments highlight the tough realities of the current college football landscape, where the model of college athletics is increasingly mirroring that of professional sports. He acknowledges that college programs are operating in a world where financial incentives play a key role in player decisions. Riley’s remarks reflect a growing understanding that college football is evolving, and the demands of athletes in this new environment are different from the past. In a world where players are driven by financial incentives, those who feel they can secure a better deal elsewhere will likely seek opportunities that match their value.
In this context, Riley’s comments about the “cutthroat” nature of college football mirror the challenges faced by coaches as they try to retain talent in an era where transfers are common and financial compensation plays a more significant role. This is especially true for USC, which may struggle to compete with the resources offered by other top-tier programs like Ohio State.
For Joyner, transferring to Ohio State could provide a chance to play a prominent role on a competitive team in the Big Ten, which could enhance his draft prospects. Moving to a powerhouse program like Ohio State offers more exposure and a higher likelihood of competing for championships, which are critical factors for any player looking to elevate their profile for professional football.
Joyner’s potential departure also speaks to a broader trend in college football, where players are increasingly making decisions based on financial compensation and the opportunity for greater playing time. This shift is reshaping the landscape of college sports, as schools work to attract and retain top talent through the portal. Programs like Ohio State, which have substantial financial resources and a storied football tradition, are well-positioned to capitalize on this new reality.
In summary, Joyner’s transfer to Ohio State would not only mark a personal milestone in his career but also reflect the ongoing changes in college football. While it would be a blow to USC and Riley, who are already facing challenges in retaining key players, it also underscores the growing importance of financial incentives and the changing nature of college athletics. As Joyner looks to take the next step in his football career, Ohio State could provide him with the platform to achieve his goals and make a significant impact in the 2025 season. Meanwhile, USC will have to navigate the complexities of the modern college football landscape as it faces increasing competition from other programs that can offer more financial support and opportunities for their players.
