Jordan Houston Determined to Succeed as Wolfpack's Top Runner
After getting added into NC State’s shuffle of tailbacks, freshman running back Jordan Houston now finds himself as one of the potential starters for the Wolfpack’s upcoming game against the defending national champions.
“It’s definitely a big adjustment, but I’m happy,” Houston said. “One of the reasons I came here was that they told me that I had a good chance of playing as a freshman. I do think about how I was just in high school a few months ago, and now I’m getting ready to play one of the best teams in the country. It’s a great opportunity for me and my team.”
Houston has already had the opportunity to start as he saw the first offensive snaps versus Florida State and Syracuse. The Waldorf, Md. product has also led the Pack running corps in four of the last five games. With his increased production, it’s no surprise that he’ll be one of State’s go-to players against Clemson.
“Personally, I think I’ve gotten a lot better now that I’m more comfortable with all the signals and play calling,” Houston said. “Coach Kitchings pushes me really hard. He just wants the best for me. He’s helped me grow as a running back since I’ve been here with reading defenses and trying to get to that next level. Plus, having Ricky [Person], Trent [Pennix], and Zonovan [Knight] helping me along the way has helped me a lot.”
In 2019, Houston sits just behind Knight for the team lead in rushing yards with 362 on 63 carries with touchdowns against Western Carolina and West Virginia. Following behind 1,000-yard rushers Matthew Dayes, Nyheim Hines, and Reggie Gallaspy wasn’t going to be easy, but Houston has relished the position he’s in by continuing the Wolfpack’s running back lineage.
“It means a lot to me,” Houston said. “I’ve talked to Nyheim a few times before I got here and asked him for advice. It means a lot to me to be able to play behind some of the best running backs.”
Moving forward, Houston and the Wolfpack faces a daunting challenge with the Tigers coming to Carter-Finley Stadium for a Saturday night clash. With an elite defense dedicated to stomping out State’s offense, Houston appears ready to overcome Clemson’s forces.
“I can’t fear anyone,” Houston said. “We’ve just got to go out there. Coach Doeren told us to play loose, not to worry about making mistakes, and to just go out there and put it all on the line."