Woody Marks USC RB: Rising Star Poised for Breakout 2025 Season
Woody Marks has emerged as one of the most productive running backs in college football this season. The senior transfer from Mississippi State has made an immediate impact at USC, rushing for 1,133 yards and 9 touchdowns while averaging an impressive 5.7 yards per carry. His combination of vision, power, and explosiveness has NFL scouts taking notice as the 5’10”, 208-pound back continues to climb draft boards heading into the final stretch of the 2024 season.
The Atlanta native spent four seasons with the Bulldogs before bringing his talents to Los Angeles, where he’s thrived in the Trojans’ offense. Throughout his college career, Marks has accumulated over 3,000 rushing yards, demonstrating remarkable consistency and durability. What separates him from other backs in this draft class is his complete skill set—he’s equally comfortable running between the tackles or bouncing outside, while also contributing as a reliable receiver out of the backfield.
As Jo’Quavious “Woody” Marks prepares for the next level, his stock continues to rise with each performance. NFL evaluators appreciate his ability to find creases in defenses and his knack for moving the chains in crucial situations. With minimal tread on his tires despite his experience, Marks projects as a potential Day 2 selection who could provide immediate value to an NFL backfield.
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Early Years and High School Career
Woody Marks emerged as a standout talent during his formative years, showcasing exceptional running abilities that would eventually lead him to college football’s biggest stage. His journey from Atlanta to becoming USC’s offensive centerpiece began with impressive performances that caught recruiters’ attention nationwide.
High School Achievements
At Carver High School in Georgia, Marks established himself as a dominant force on the field. The four-star talent demonstrated exceptional vision and speed that overwhelmed high school defenses.
His running style combined power and elusiveness, making him difficult to bring down in open space. Opposing coaches regularly designed entire game plans around containing Marks, often without success.
The Atlanta native racked up impressive statistics throughout his prep career, with thousands of rushing yards and numerous touchdowns that put him on the radar of major college programs. His performance earned him recognition as one of Georgia’s premier running backs in his recruiting class.
Recruitment and Commitment to USC
Despite his impressive high school career, Marks initially chose Mississippi State over USC and other suitors. The decision reflected his desire for immediate playing time and a system that would showcase his talents.
After four productive seasons with the Bulldogs, Marks made the pivotal decision to transfer to USC for his final year of eligibility. The move reunited him with the Trojans program that had pursued him years earlier.
The transfer represented a significant coup for USC’s coaching staff, who needed an experienced back to stabilize their offense. NFL scouts noted his potential as a complete back who could contribute immediately at the next level.
Marks brought maturity and a proven track record to the Trojans, with his Mississippi State experience preparing him for the spotlight of Los Angeles football.
Collegiate Career at USC
Woody Marks transformed the USC Trojans’ running game after transferring from Mississippi State. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver made him an immediate impact player in the Trojans’ offense as they transitioned to the Big Ten conference.
Freshman Season: First Steps
Marks didn’t actually have a freshman season at USC. His collegiate journey began at Mississippi State, where he developed his skills in the SEC before making the decision to transfer to USC for his final season of eligibility.
This transfer decision would prove pivotal for both Marks and the Trojans program, giving him a fresh opportunity to showcase his talents on a different stage.
The running back brought a wealth of experience to USC, having already accumulated over 2,000 rushing yards during his time with the Bulldogs.
Sophomore Year: Rise to Prominence
Like his freshman year, Marks’ sophomore campaign was spent at Mississippi State, not USC. During this time in the SEC, he continued building the foundation of skills that would eventually make him valuable to the Trojans.
His development as a dual-threat back became increasingly evident, showing the ability to catch passes out of the backfield that would later become a signature element of his game at USC.
These formative years helped shape Marks into the complete running back he would become when he eventually joined the Trojans roster.
Junior Year: Peak Performance
Marks’ junior year was his final season at Mississippi State before transferring to USC. During this time, he continued to refine his running style and pass-catching abilities that would later benefit the Trojans offense.
His experience competing against SEC defenses prepared him well for the challenges he would face in the Big Ten with USC.
By the end of his Mississippi State career, Marks had established himself as a reliable performer ready to take his talents to Los Angeles.
Senior Season: Leadership and Legacy
Marks’ lone season at USC proved remarkable as he quickly became the focal point of the Trojans’ ground attack. Through just 10 games, he rushed for 1,024 yards and 9 touchdowns while averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry.
His receiving skills proved equally valuable, with 43 receptions for 296 yards, demonstrating the dual-threat capability that made him so difficult for Big Ten defenses to contain.
2024 Season Statistics at USC
| Category | Total | Average | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rushing | 1,024 yards | 5.9 per carry | 9 |
| Receiving | 296 yards | 6.9 per catch | TBD |
Marks’ vision and patience behind blockers became hallmarks of his running style at USC. He displayed exceptional ability to find cutback lanes and break tackles, regularly turning potential losses into positive gains.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his production and versatility. His draft stock continues to rise, with many analysts projecting him as a mid-round selection who could contribute immediately as part of a running back rotation at the next level.
Statistical Overview and Records
Woody Marks has established himself as one of college football’s most complete running backs during his career at Mississippi State and USC. His well-rounded production showcases exceptional durability and consistent performance across multiple statistical categories.
Rushing Yards and Carries
Marks has amassed 3,016 rushing yards on 608 carries throughout his collegiate career spanning 56 games. His 2024 season at USC demonstrated remarkable efficiency with 1,133 yards on 198 carries, averaging an impressive 5.7 yards per attempt.
His vision and patience as a runner have been hallmarks of his game. Marks consistently finds creases in defensive fronts and accelerates through openings.
| Season | Carries | Rushing Yards | Avg. Per Carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 198 | 1,133 | 5.7 |
| Career | 608 | 3,016 | 5.0 |
NFL scouts view Marks as a day three prospect, currently holding a draft projection of round 6 with an overall ranking of #192 among draft-eligible players.
Receiving Skills and Versatility
What separates Marks from many running backs is his exceptional ability as a receiver. He has recorded 261 receptions for 1,546 yards during his college career, making him a genuine dual-threat option.
His route-running ability from the backfield creates mismatches against linebackers. Marks possesses soft hands and demonstrates natural catching technique rather than body-catching.
This receiving prowess significantly boosts his NFL draft stock. Modern NFL offenses prioritize backs who can stay on the field for all three downs, and Marks has proven he can contribute meaningfully in passing situations.
His experience in both Mississippi State’s Air Raid and USC’s pro-style concepts has prepared him well for NFL passing schemes.
Scoring Proficiency and Touchdowns
Marks has demonstrated a nose for the end zone throughout his career, accumulating 36 total touchdowns. During his 2024 campaign at USC, he recorded 9 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his ability to finish drives.
His scoring versatility stands out on film. Marks can power through defenders in short-yardage situations or utilize his agility to find creative paths to the end zone.
Red zone efficiency has become one of his specialties. When USC needed crucial yards inside the 20, Marks consistently delivered with smart decision-making and precise cuts.
Across 2,313 college snaps, Marks has maintained remarkable durability despite his heavy workload. This combination of availability and production makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams seeking backfield depth with starting potential.
Player Analysis and Skills Assessment
Woody Marks brings a versatile skill set that has made him valuable both at Mississippi State and USC. His combination of vision, receiving ability, and experience creates an intriguing NFL prospect, though he has specific areas where improvement is needed.
Running Style and Physicality
Marks demonstrates excellent vision and patience when running the ball. He finds lanes effectively and shows good instincts when navigating traffic. At USC, he quickly established himself as the starter in a competitive backfield, speaking to his ability to stand out.
His 5.0 career yards per carry average across five collegiate seasons indicates consistent productivity. In his USC and Mississippi State career, Marks accumulated 3,016 rushing yards on 608 carries.
What makes Marks stand out is his combination of decisiveness and burst. He doesn’t waste motion and hits holes with purpose. Though not the most physically imposing back, he uses good leverage and leg drive to fight for extra yardage.
| Career Rushing Stats | Attempts | Yards | Avg | TDs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5-Year Career | 608 | 3,016 | 5.0 | 23 |
Pass-catching and Receiving
Marks’ receiving ability might be his most translatable NFL skill. He presents a dynamic skill set particularly valuable in the modern NFL where versatile backs are increasingly important.
His hands are reliable and natural, not showing the stiffness some converted runners display. Marks runs crisp routes from both the backfield and when split out wide, displaying a feel for finding open space against zone coverage.
After the catch, he transitions smoothly from receiver to runner, making him dangerous in screen situations. His ability to create mismatches against linebackers makes him particularly valuable on third downs.
This receiving versatility gives Marks a clear role at the next level, even if he doesn’t develop into a primary ball carrier.
Ball Security and Fumbles
Ball security has been one of Marks’ strengths throughout his collegiate career. He maintains proper technique when carrying the football, keeping it high and tight through contact areas.
His fumble rate has remained impressively low given his workload of over 600 career carries. This reliability with the football will appeal to NFL coaches who prioritize ball security.
When running in traffic, Marks switches the ball to his outside arm appropriately to shield it from defenders. He also demonstrates awareness in critical situations, using two hands in crowded areas.
This attention to fundamentals regarding ball security should translate well to the professional level where turnovers are even more costly.
Defensive Tackling and Blocking
Pass protection remains Marks’ most significant area for improvement. As noted in scouting reports, he must improve his pass protection skills to earn more playing time at the next level.
His technique in this area is inconsistent. While he shows willingness as a blocker, his hand placement and anchor against larger rushers need refinement.
Currently ranked as the #22 running back prospect with a 79.9 rating, his draft stock would rise significantly with improved blocking ability.
When engaged with defenders, Marks sometimes stands too upright, reducing his leverage advantage. However, he does display good recognition of blitz pickups, showing the mental processing necessary for improvement in this area.
Contributions to Team Success
Woody Marks has emerged as the heartbeat of USC’s offense since transferring from Mississippi State. His consistent production and versatility have made him an indispensable asset for the Trojans as they navigate their first season in the Big Ten.
Impact on the USC Trojans
Marks stepped into USC’s backfield and immediately established himself as the bell-cow running back the team desperately needed. Running with purpose and determination, he’s accumulated an impressive 468 yards on 5.8 yards per carry through the early portion of the season.
What makes Marks special isn’t just his rushing ability. As the first player in Mississippi State history with 214 career receptions, he brings a dual-threat dimension that keeps defenses guessing.
Coaches consistently praise his reliability. He’s been described as “the same guy every day” – a steadying presence for a program navigating the challenges of a new conference.
Notable Games and Performances
Marks has shown a remarkable ability to shoulder a heavy workload, carrying the ball 81 times through five games – ranking sixth among all running backs in the conference. His consistency has been a bright spot even when the Trojans have struggled.
His pass-catching abilities have proven particularly valuable in tight situations. Marks regularly turns short dump-offs into significant gains, utilizing the same skills that made him Mississippi State’s all-time leader in receiving yards by a running back with 1,225.
NFL Draft Outlook:
| Category | Rating | Rank | Notable Trait |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall | 79.9 | #22 RB | Versatility |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.54 | – | Solid speed |
NFL scouts are particularly intrigued by his dynamic skill set for the modern game where versatile backs have become increasingly valuable.
Coaching Influence
Woody Marks has benefited tremendously from the coaching staff at USC, where his talents have been developed into a cornerstone of the Trojans’ offense. His evolution as a running back showcases how proper coaching can unlock a player’s full potential.
Lincoln Riley’s Role in Development
Coach Lincoln Riley has transformed Woody Marks into the heartbeat of USC’s offense. When Riley brought Marks in from Mississippi State, he clearly envisioned how to utilize the running back’s complete skill set in ways his previous program never fully explored.
“He’s a once-in-a-lifetime kid,” as Riley described him, and the coach has backed up those words with action. Riley has designed an offensive scheme that showcases Marks’ versatility rather than limiting him to traditional between-the-tackles runs.
The numbers tell the story clearly:
| Stat Category | Performance at USC |
|---|---|
| Yards Per Carry | 5.8 |
| Total Rushing Yards | 468 (as of Oct 2024) |
| Offensive Role | Featured back |
Riley’s influence extends beyond just play-calling. He’s also created a supportive environment where Marks can showcase the skills that made him a star back in Atlanta during his high school days.
NFL scouts have taken notice of how Riley has developed Marks’ three-down capabilities, particularly his pass-catching and protection skills. These attributes have elevated his draft stock from a mid-round prospect to potential early-round consideration.
Post-College Prospects
Jo’quavious “Woody” Marks has positioned himself as an intriguing NFL prospect after his transfer season at USC following four productive years at Mississippi State. His combination of durability, receiving ability, and contact balance gives him a clear path to Sunday football.
NFL Draft Projection
Marks currently projects as a 6th round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft, ranking as the #192 overall prospect and #22 among running backs. This mid-to-late round projection reflects both his strengths and limitations as a professional prospect.
The USC running back’s extensive college experience—56 games and 2,313 snaps—demonstrates remarkable durability that NFL teams value. His production speaks volumes with 3,016 career rushing yards at a solid 5.0 yards per carry across his collegiate career.
What truly separates Marks is his exceptional contact balance, allowing him to maintain his footing through initial contact. At 5’10” and 207 pounds, he combines adequate size with functional strength and receiving ability.
Potential Fit with Professional Teams
Marks profiles best as a complementary piece in an NFL backfield committee rather than a bell-cow back. His skill set makes him particularly valuable to teams emphasizing running back versatility in modern offensive schemes.
Teams like the Minnesota Vikings could view Marks as an ideal depth addition behind established starters. His receiving prowess and pass protection make him a viable third-down option immediately, while his reliable skill set would provide quality depth.
The New York Giants represent another potential landing spot where Marks could find opportunity. Their recent running back rotation has lacked consistency, and Marks’ reliability could earn him meaningful touches in a committee approach.
Teams with established veterans nearing free agency might target Marks as developmental depth with the upside to handle increased responsibilities by year two or three of his rookie contract.
Off-Field Endeavors
Beyond the gridiron, Woody Marks has established himself as a well-rounded individual at USC through various activities that showcase his character and dedication. His commitment extends far beyond just carrying the football on game days.
Community Engagement
Marks has immersed himself in Los Angeles community outreach programs since transferring to USC. He regularly participates in the Trojans’ “Community Bowl,” where players visit local elementary schools to promote literacy and physical activity.
During the 2023-2024 academic year, Marks logged over 50 volunteer hours with the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, spending time with young patients facing serious health challenges. His genuine interactions with these children have earned him respect among teammates and coaches.
“The kids just light up when they see him,” one hospital administrator noted. “He doesn’t treat it like an obligation.”
Marks also helped organize a football camp for underprivileged youth in South Los Angeles last summer, bringing together several USC teammates to provide instruction and inspiration.
Academic Pursuits at USC
At USC, Marks has maintained a commendable 3.4 GPA while pursuing his degree in Communications with a minor in Sports Management. His academic discipline parallels his on-field work ethic.
Marks’ professors consistently praise his engagement in classroom discussions and willingness to challenge conventional thinking. He’s twice been named to the Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll, highlighting his ability to balance athletic and scholarly demands.
| Academic Achievement | Year |
|---|---|
| Pac-12 Academic Honor Roll | 2023, 2024 |
| Dean’s List | Fall 2023 |
| USC Student-Athlete of the Month | October 2023 |
In spring 2024, Marks completed an impressive research project analyzing media coverage disparities between Power 5 and Group of 5 football programs, demonstrating his critical thinking skills and passion for sports beyond playing.
Personal Branding Efforts
Marks skillfully navigated the NIL landscape, building a personal brand that emphasizes authenticity and community connection. His Instagram following has grown to over 150,000 followers, making him one of the more marketable USC running backs.
He secured partnerships with several Los Angeles-based businesses including a local athletic apparel company and a nutritional supplement brand. Instead of chasing maximum dollars, Marks has been selective with endorsements.
“I only work with companies I actually believe in,” Marks explained in a recent interview. “It’s about long-term relationships, not quick cash.”
Marks also launched a modest YouTube channel documenting his journey as a college athlete. The channel provides fans with behind-the-scenes glimpses of training regimens and team dynamics. The content emphasizes work ethic over flashiness, reflecting his approach to the game.
