USC Freshman Bryan Jackson Steps Into Starting Role for Las Vegas Bowl

With key players absent, USC's younger roster members prepare for significant opportunities against Texas A&M.

Freshman running back Bryan Jackson will lead USC's backfield in the Las Vegas Bowl after Woody Marks declared for the NFL draft and Quinten Joyner entered the transfer portal.
USC faces a depleted roster, with 19 players in the transfer portal and others opting out to prepare for the NFL draft, creating opportunities for younger players to step up.
Head coach Lincoln Riley emphasized the dual nature of the bowl game as both the final game of this season and a preview of next year's team dynamics.
Jackson, a 230-pound power back, has prepared diligently for this moment, learning from veteran teammates and embracing the chance to prove himself as a future key player.
Texas A&M also approaches the game with a reshuffled lineup, treating it as a fresh start due to roster changes and absences on their defensive front.