Lincoln Riley Secures Signature USC Victory Over No. 2 Ohio State
The Trojans stunned the Buckeyes 30-18, revitalizing their season and quieting critics of Coach Riley.
USC delivered its most significant victory in years, upsetting No. 2 Ohio State 30-18 on Halloween night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The win, arguably the biggest of head coach Lincoln Riley's collegiate career, came one week after a demoralizing loss to Wisconsin and has revived the Trojans' season and College Football Playoff aspirations.
Prior to Saturday's game, Riley faced mounting pressure due to a lack of signature wins since his arrival in November 2021. The Trojans, entering the matchup with a 6-2 record, appeared to be faltering. However, the team showcased a dramatic turnaround against one of the nation's top teams.
USC wasted no time asserting dominance, with freshman wide receiver Trent Mosley scoring on a 69-yard touchdown reception from quarterback Jayden Maiava less than a minute into the game. The Trojans extended their lead to 14-3 on a touchdown run by Waymond Jordan. Despite fumbles and missed field goals, USC's defense held firm, preventing Ohio State from capitalizing on opportunities.
Ohio State, playing without injured starting quarterback Julian Sayin, struggled offensively with freshman Luke Fahey at the helm. While kicker Connor Hawkins converted four field goals, the Buckeyes were unable to find the end zone consistently. USC took a 20-9 lead into halftime after a field goal by Caden Chittenden.
The Trojans further solidified their lead in the second half. A fumble by King Miller, recovered by USC's Floyd Boucard, set up a pivotal moment. Freshman tight end Mark Bowman then executed a spectacular 70-yard catch-and-run, leading to Miller's second touchdown and a 27-9 advantage.
Ohio State managed their first touchdown late in the fourth quarter when Fahey connected with Jeremiah Smith, making him the Big Ten's all-time receiving touchdown leader. However, USC's defense stopped the subsequent two-point conversion, sealing the 30-18 victory.
The victory has significant implications for USC's season. At 7-2, the Trojans have a renewed chance at the College Football Playoff, despite earlier losses to Oregon and Wisconsin. The win over Ohio State provides the signature performance many had called for, likely easing the pressure on Riley.
USC's next challenge will be an away game against No. 4 Indiana following a bye week. A win in that contest could position the Trojans firmly within the playoff conversation. Ohio State, now with a 6-2 record, faces an unranked Oregon team and must regroup, particularly if Sayin's injury continues to sideline him.