USC Falls Short: Washington Holds Off Trojans in Thrilling 26-21 Showdown

In a gripping encounter at Husky Stadium on November 2, 2024, the Washington Huskies edged out the USC Trojans with a final score of 26-21. This victory not only marked a significant achievement for Washington but also extended their home winning streak to an impressive 19 games. The match was a showcase of resilience and skill, with both teams displaying moments of brilliance and frustration.

The game began with Washington taking an early lead, thanks to Jonah Coleman, who rushed for a 19-yard touchdown. This set the tone for a competitive first half, as the Huskies quickly established their dominance. USC responded with a touchdown from running back Woody Marks, narrowing the score to 10-7. However, Washington was not to be outdone, as they extended their lead to 20-7 by halftime, scoring a touchdown and a field goal.

As the second half unfolded, the Trojans showed signs of life. Quarterback Miller Moss, despite struggling with turnovers, managed to throw for 293 yards and two touchdowns. His performance, however, was marred by three interceptions, bringing his season total to nine. The Trojans rallied with touchdowns from Makai Lemon and Kyle Ford, briefly taking a 21-20 lead. This moment was pivotal, showcasing USC’s potential to turn the tide in their favor.

Yet, the game was not without its crucial moments. With time winding down, USC found themselves at Washington’s 1-yard line, poised to take the lead. However, a critical fourth-down stop by the Huskies’ defense thwarted their efforts, leaving the Trojans empty-handed. This moment encapsulated the struggles USC faced throughout the game, particularly in converting opportunities into points.

The scoring summary of the match highlighted the back-and-forth nature of the contest. Washington’s early lead was complemented by a strong performance from Coleman, who rushed for 104 yards and scored two touchdowns. His contributions were vital in maintaining Washington’s momentum. The Huskies’ quarterback, Will Rogers, also played a significant role, throwing for 262 yards and helping to orchestrate the offense effectively.

Despite the loss, USC’s defense showed promise, particularly from freshmen edge rushers Kameryn Fountain and Sam Greene. Although they failed to secure any sacks during the game, their presence was felt, and they demonstrated the potential for future success. However, the inability to capitalize on turnovers proved costly for the Trojans, as they struggled to maintain possession and convert drives into points.

This defeat marked USC’s fourth loss in five games, leaving them with a record of 4-5 overall and 2-4 in their first season in the Big Ten. The Trojans remain without a true road win for over a year, raising concerns about their performance as they navigate this challenging season. Head coach Lincoln Riley expressed his frustration post-game, emphasizing the need for the team to close out games and convert opportunities into wins.

Looking ahead, USC will have a bye week before facing Nebraska at home on November 16. This break provides a crucial opportunity for the Trojans to regroup and reassess their strategies. The coaching staff will undoubtedly focus on addressing the turnover issues that have plagued the team, as well as reinforcing the importance of capitalizing on scoring opportunities.

In conclusion, the USC vs Washington matchup was a thrilling contest that showcased the highs and lows of college football. The Trojans’ loss serves as a reminder of the challenges they face in the Big Ten, while Washington’s victory solidifies their position as a formidable opponent. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on their performances, with USC aiming to turn their fortunes around in the coming weeks. The 26-21 game recap highlights the competitive spirit of college football, leaving fans eager for what lies ahead.