In a dramatic showdown at Notre Dame Stadium, the 20th-ranked USC Trojans fell to the 13th-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish with a score of 34-24. This defeat, marking a significant moment in college football, may have detrimental effects on USC’s chances for the College Football Playoff.
Game Recap: Notre Dame Defeats USC
The rivalry, which spans nearly a century, was overshadowed by heavy rain and dark clouds during the final moments of the game. Both teams have expressed a desire to continue this historic matchup beyond the current season, though uncertainty looms regarding future agreements.
USC Coach Lincoln Riley reflected on the lost opportunities. He stated, “We just flat-out did not play good enough tonight against a good team on the road.” USC’s playoff hopes depend on winning their remaining games, but this loss significantly complicates their situation.
Key Moments of the Game
- With Notre Dame leading, they missed a 31-yard field goal in the fourth quarter.
- USC quarterback Jayden Maiava connected with Makai Lemon for a 42-yard gain shortly after.
- A critical trick play by Riley ended in disaster when it led to a fumble by Lemon.
- Notre Dame seized the momentum and scored shortly afterward, with quarterback C.J. Carr plunging into the end zone.
Additionally, Maiava contributed to the team’s troubles by throwing two interceptions in the final quarter, further hampering USC’s offensive efforts.
Running Game Dominance
Notre Dame’s running attack proved relentless. They amassed a staggering 306 rushing yards, with Jeremiyah Love leading the charge. Love recorded a career-high 228 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns.
In contrast, USC’s ground game faltered significantly. The team’s star King Miller, who had previously rushed for 158 yards, managed only 70 yards. The rest of their rushing performance resulted in a net loss of 24 yards.
Quarterback Performance
Despite the adverse weather conditions, USC’s Maiava attempted to keep the passing game alive. He completed nine passes for 15 yards or more, including a standout 59-yard touchdown pass to Ja’Kobi Lane. However, his overall completion rate was only 52%.
Looking Ahead
The loss raises questions about USC’s future, particularly regarding potential matchups in the coming year. With two losses already, their path to the College Football Playoff is perilously narrow.
Riley urged his players to focus on the present and learn from this setback. He cited the example of last year’s national champion Ohio State, which rebounded after a similar loss. As Riley put it, “In this new age of college football, with all the parity right now, anything is possible.”
The stakes are high as USC aims to regroup and revitalize their playoff ambitions.
