USC and LSU faced off in a highly anticipated game that marked the beginning of new eras for both teams. USC’s Miller Moss, replacing No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, led the 23rd-ranked Trojans to a 27-20 victory over No. 13 LSU in Las Vegas. Moss showed composure in driving the team down the field late in the game, completing crucial passes to secure the win. A key moment came when Kyron Hudson made a spectacular one-handed catch, setting up Woody Marks to run in for a touchdown with eight seconds left, securing the victory for USC.
Hudson had already made a remarkable catch earlier in the game that led to a Marks touchdown. However, LSU quickly responded with a touchdown of their own. After the score, an LSU player pretended to shoot a gun, resulting in a penalty that USC capitalized on with a field goal. Both teams exchanged points, with USC and LSU heading into halftime tied at 10. In the third quarter, USC took the lead with a field goal before LSU responded with a touchdown drive, putting them ahead again. In the fourth quarter, USC made a pivotal play with a touchdown pass to take the lead, ultimately securing the win.
Moss had an impressive game, completing 27 of 36 passes for 378 yards, while Marks scored two touchdowns on 16 carries for 68 yards. LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, replacing Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, threw for 304 yards on 29 completions. The game showcased the talent and potential of both quarterbacks as they settled into their new roles. USC is expected to climb in the rankings after this victory, while LSU will look to regroup as they prepare to host Nicholls in their next game.
Both teams showed moments of strength and resilience throughout the game, but it was USC who came out on top with a well-earned victory. Moss’s performance, along with key plays from Hudson and Marks, were instrumental in securing the win for the Trojans. The game marked the beginning of a new chapter for both teams, with USC setting a positive tone for the season ahead. As they head home to host Utah State next, the Trojans will look to build on this victory and continue their momentum in the upcoming games.
LSU, on the other hand, will need to regroup and make adjustments after this loss. Nussmeier’s solid performance and the team’s fight until the end showed promise, but they fell short against USC. With a game against Nicholls on the horizon, LSU will have an opportunity to bounce back and showcase their resilience. Overall, the USC vs. LSU game was a thrilling start to the season for both teams, with USC emerging as the victor and setting a positive tone for the road ahead in their respective conferences.