Ex-USC Playmaker Ruled Out for the College Football Season

Texas Tech dealt unfortunate news.

The college football season kicks off Saturday. Many fans have been waiting the whole summer for this day, but things look grim for Texas Tech Red Raiders fans.

Their running back, Quinten Joyner, suffered an injury that will sideline him for the entire season. He has torn his ACL, per Pete Nakos of On3.

Joyner played for the USC Trojans last season, acting as a reserve to their main man, Woody Marks. He rushed for 478 yards in 63 attempts, scoring three times.

He was a projected starter for Texas Tech who will open against Arkansas-Pine Bluff. His loss at this stage will definitely shake things up in the offense.

USC Trojans running back Quinten Joyner (0) takes a pass from quarterback Miller Moss (7) into the end zone for a touchdown.© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

"I hate it so much for him, just because of how well he has done in the spring, summer and camp," coach Joey McGuire said on his podcast. "He has really come in here and been a pro, and we've asked him to do a lot of stuff that he hasn't done before... He's really taken to it, so it's unfortunate."

The sophomore went down during a scrimmage at Jones AT&T Stadium. It was a completely non-contact injury, as revealed by McGuire.

The Red Raiders are one of the favorites to win the Big 12 this season. Keen eyes are also on Deion Sanders' Colorado, but without two of their aces from last season, fans expect nothing impressive from the Buffaloes.

Related: Patrick Mahomes Reacts To Texas Tech Landing No. 1 Overall Recruit

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the College section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Category: General Sports