'Junkyard Dog' nickname origins explanation from Waymond Jordan shows his approach

There are, of course, times when a nickname is just a nickname. In the case of USC running back Waymond Jordan, he earned 'Junkyard Dog.'

To this point, Jordan may be unknown to a lot of college football fans. Despite putting up numbers and being the offensive MVP at the JUCO level, a lot of people will be introduced to the RB for the first time this season with the Trojans.

It is something that will likely catch many off guard. From what has been seen early on and listening to how this USC staff speaks of Jordan in particular, there isn't too much room for doubt when it comes to this year's running production.

Having someone in the backfield who was given a nickname from the likes of coach Reggie Evans and coach Avery Mobley, as shared by USCFootball.com's R.J. Abeytia, was something that was given to Jordan for the way in which he approached each day of practice and competition while playing against the older-aged kids in basketball.

The same qualities that saw an NBA veteran recognize the inner warrior spirit of Jordan certainly carry over to the gridiron. Pun intended, perhaps the USC offense needs a little more of a bite to it in 2025.

Emerging household name from the USC running back position

At the end of the day, athletes recognize and appreciate effort and being with someone who is willing to face any odds and just tries to win on the day. In a locker room and in a competitive setting, it is very quickly found out and exposed when someone isn't ready to face the challenge.

By contrast, being with someone who truly attacks every facet of preparation and then the games themselves with a certain ferocity can be something that quickly reverberates throughout a team. He may still be an unknown in the large scale of college football, but make no mistake, USC has exactly what fans have been craving at the running back position.