The USC Trojans are paying tribute to Joe McKnight today in their Rose Bowl matchup vs. Penn State ... with a "JM 4" decal on the back of their helmets.
McKnight was a stud running back for the Trojans from 2007 - 2009 ... rushing for over 1,000 yards his junior season before going to the NFL and playing for the Jets and Chiefs.
Joe was tragically shot and killed in a road rage incident on December 1 in Louisiana ... and the team is dedicating today's game to him.