Quarterback Jayden Maiava led the way for USC, throwing three touchdown passes and continuing his impressive form. He finished the night 15-of-21 for 201 yards, with key connections to wide receiver Makai Lemon, who hauled in six receptions for 113 yards and a touchdown. Running back Waymond Jordan added 125 yards on the ground, including a pivotal 40-yard rush to set up a third-quarter score.
USC struck first with a field goal, but Michigan State answered with a touchdown pass from Aidan Chiles to Chrishon McCray. The Trojans quickly regained the lead with a touchdown drive capped by a 15-yard run from Maiava. Early in the second quarter, Michigan State’s Jordan Hall was ejected for targeting, and on the next play, Maiava connected with Lemon for a 40-yard touchdown, pushing the Trojans ahead 17-7. The Spartans managed to cut the deficit with a field goal, but USC responded with an 88-yard drive ending in a touchdown pass to Tanook Hines just before halftime.
A significant moment occurred late in the second quarter when Michigan State linebacker Wayne Matthews III suffered a serious injury. Both teams took a knee as Matthews was treated on the field and carted off to applause from the Coliseum crowd.
In the third quarter, USC’s defense forced a quick three-and-out, and the Trojans capitalized with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Maiava to Walker Lyons. Michigan State’s offense, led by Chiles, struggled to find rhythm against a disciplined USC defense, managing only 186 total yards and failing to score in the second half.
The win keeps USC undefeated in conference play under head coach Lincoln Riley. Maiava, who now leads the Big Ten in passing yards, further solidified his status as a rising star and a potential Heisman Trophy contender. The loss drops Michigan State to 3-1 and highlights ongoing concerns about the Spartans’ pass defense, which allowed 273 yards per game entering the contest.
This late-night showdown, part of “Big Ten After Dark,” showcased USC’s offensive firepower and depth, while Michigan State faces questions as they look to rebound in upcoming conference matchups. For full game stats and highlights, visit ESPN’s live coverage or follow the Trojans’ season at their official site.