USC Football Holds On for Narrow Victory Against Winless Rutgers

The No. 12 USC Trojans secured a narrow 42-35 victory over the winless Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday, avoiding a significant upset in their Big Ten opener. Despite a shaky defensive performance that allowed Rutgers to keep pace for much of the game, USC managed to hold on with crucial plays in the fourth quarter.

The Trojans’ defense surrendered 460 yards to a Rutgers team that had struggled offensively in its previous games. Rutgers converted three of four fourth downs and nearly matched its combined point total from its first two games. USC quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 20 of 32 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns, but the offense missed the presence of freshman wide receiver Trent Mosley.

The turning point came early in the fourth quarter when Rutgers attempted a fourth-and-1 conversion from its own 24-yard line. The play resulted in no gain, giving USC possession. The Trojans capitalized on the short field, with Maiava connecting on a 2-yard touchdown pass to Riley Wormley, which ultimately helped secure the win.

Riley Wormley was a key contributor for USC, scoring two touchdowns, including a crucial go-ahead score late in the third quarter and another on a pass reception. He also provided a 27-yard run, the longest of the day for USC, finishing with 52 rushing yards on three carries.

USC kicker Caden Chittenden also made his presence felt, converting two field goals, including a 35-yard attempt on the Trojans' first drive and a 32-yarder before halftime.

The victory, however, does little to alleviate concerns about USC's defense heading into a challenging matchup against No. 21 Oregon next weekend. USC coach Lincoln Riley has a 0-2 record against the Ducks, with both previous meetings occurring at Oregon's Autzen Stadium.

Rutgers, now 0-3 overall and 0-1 in the Big Ten, continues to struggle, with coach Greg Schiano facing increasing pressure after the team's winless start.