Quinten Joyner, nation's No. 8 running back, commits to USC; First Texas pledge for Lincoln Riley-led Trojans

If one desires to build a national title contender in college football it's generally a good idea to have significant in-roads in California, Texas or Florida.

Better yet, a coach would be smart to secure top talent from all three states.

USC coach Lincoln Riley has done a tremendous job early connecting with the state of California.

For the first time Tuesday, he extended his reach into "The Lone Star State."

Manor High School (Texas) star Quinten Joyner, the nation's No. 8 running back, announced his commitment to USC, choosing the Trojans over offers from Nebraska, Oklahoma State, Oregon, Penn State and others:

As a junior, the 5-foot-10, 190-pound ball-carrier was one of the most productive backs in the state of Texas, churning out 2,494 yards and 31 touchdowns, averaging an astounding 11.2 yards per carry in the process.

Joyner is also a track standout, having competed in the 2021 AAU Junior Olympics, where he posted a 10.99 100-meter dash. 

He is the fourth pledge in USC's 2023 recruiting class, joining a trio of five-star recruits - Los Alamitos (California) quarterback Malachi Nelson, Bishop Gorman (Nevada) wide receiver Zachariah Branch and Los Alamitos (California) athlete Makai Lemon.