USC in the NFL: Joe McKnight makes impact for Chiefs

Every Monday we will recap notable performances of former USC players in the NFL.

McKnight sighting in Kansas City

Former USC tailback Joe McKnight was a trending topic on Twitter on Sunday, with many surprised to realize that McKnight was still in the NFL.

And with running back Jamaal Charles sidelined because of an injury, McKnight was used in a big way in the Kansas City Chiefs’ 34-15 victory at Miami.

“He sure did a nice job,” Chiefs Coach Andy Reid told reporters. “My hat is off to him.”

McKnight had a team-best six receptions for 64 yards and two touchdowns.

“He gives us a lot of options when he’s back there,” Reid said about McKnight’s ability to make plays out of the backfield. “That’s why we kept him.”

McKnight did not play last season after he was cut from the New York Jets.

He signed with the Chiefs in January.

Cassel injures foot; Bridgewater debuts

Former USC quarterback Matt Cassel suffered an injury and was carted off the field in the first quarter of the Minnesota Vikings’ 20-9 loss to the New Orleans Saints at the Super Dome.

Vikings Coach Mike Zimmer told reporters after the game that Cassel had several fractured bones in his left foot.

Cassel completed five of 10 passes for 53 yards.

His injury opened the door for the debut of first-round pick Teddy Bridgewater, who Zimmer said would be the starter going forward.

He completed 12 of 20 passes for 150 yards.

No time frame was given for Cassel’s return.

Breakthrough for Bush

Reggie Bush rushed 26 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter to seal the Detroit Lions’ 19-7 victory over the Green Bay Packers.

“It came at a much-needed time,” Bush told reporters after the game. “We needed to put points on the board.”

Bush rushed for a game-best 61 yards and a touchdown in 12 carries. He had six receptions for 38 yards.

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