Sunday, November 1, 2026 Independent reporting. News that matters. Newsroom sign in
Browse sections
Latest news

College Sports & Athletics

King Miller Emerges as USC’s Lead Running Back in 2026 Season

M By MSIITBD News Portal
3 min read 0 views 0 comments
News image related to It’s Miller time - Daily Trojan
Credit: Pixabay · Cropped and watermarked by MSIITBD News Portal

After arriving at USC as a three‑star walk‑on, King Miller has become the Trojans’ go‑to back, posting 595 rushing yards and three 100‑yard games by mid‑season.

Key points

  • King Miller has solidified himself as USC’s primary running back despite entering as a walk‑on.
  • By mid‑season he has logged 595 rushing yards, four touchdowns and three 100‑yard games.
  • His family’s involvement with USC spans multiple generations and includes notable alumni such as Dr. Dre and Warren G.

Redshirt sophomore running back King Miller has emerged as the primary ball carrier for the No. 16 USC Trojans, accumulating 595 rushing yards, four touchdowns and three 100‑plus‑yard performances through the first seven games of the 2026 campaign, according to the Daily Trojan.

Miller joined USC in August 2024 from Calabasas High School as a three‑star walk‑on without a scholarship. He earned his first major spotlight in 2025, when a 158‑yard effort against Michigan set a new career high and helped the then‑unranked Trojans secure a win.

From walk‑on to RB1

Entering the 2026 season, Miller was expected to share duties with redshirt senior Waymond Jordan, but he has consistently out‑performed his teammate, leading the backfield despite the senior’s return. The Trojans sit at 6‑1 overall and 3‑1 in the Big Ten, with Miller’s production contributing to the team’s early conference success.

Key moments this season include a 128‑yard outburst against Louisiana and a decisive 13‑yard touchdown in the hostile “White Out” environment at Penn State. After that play, Miller told reporters, “For this team, feeling like they have confidence in you to go out there, especially in that environment; for them to call my number to get in that end zone was just thanks to the team.”

2026 season highlights

Miller’s on‑field success is complemented by a deep family connection to USC. His twin brother Kaylon lines up on the offensive line, younger brother Kayne serves as a backup running back, and cousin Olaijah Griffin previously played cornerback for the Trojans. The family’s broader ties include uncles Dr. Dre and Warren G, co‑founders of USC’s Iovine and Young Academy.

As the Trojans continue their push for a strong conference finish, Miller remains focused on each opportunity, noting in a recent press conference, “Every moment I get to play another game in this cardinal and gold is a special one to me.” His trajectory from overlooked recruit to leading rusher underscores the impact of perseverance within USC’s football program.

Reader questions

What are King Miller’s rushing statistics for the 2026 season so far?

He has recorded 595 rushing yards, four touchdowns and three games with at least 100 yards on the ground.

How did King Miller start his USC football career?

Miller arrived in August 2024 as a three‑star walk‑on from Calabasas High School and earned playing time without a scholarship.

Who are the notable members of King Miller’s family connected to USC?

His twin brother Kaylon is an offensive lineman, younger brother Kayne is a backup running back, cousin Olaijah Griffin played cornerback for USC, and his uncles Dr. Dre and Warren G helped establish the Iovine and Young Academy.

Source: dailytrojan.com

M

About the author

MSIITBD News Portal

Reporting from the MSIITBD News Portal newsroom.

Related articles