King Miller was the driving force for the Trojans (6-2, 4-1 Big Ten), rushing for 129 yards and scoring the go-ahead touchdown early in the fourth quarter. Despite entering the game with the nation’s top passing offense, USC struggled through the air, with quarterback Jayden Maiava completing just 9 of 23 passes for 135 yards—USC’s lowest passing total in seven years. However, the Trojans compensated with 202 rushing yards, highlighted by Miller’s explosive runs and a pivotal 43-yard flea-flicker pass from Maiava to Jaden Richardson that set up the decisive score.
Nebraska (6-3, 3-3 Big Ten) led 14-6 at halftime, capitalizing on a strong defensive effort and a 10-yard touchdown run by Emmett Johnson, who finished with 165 yards on 29 carries. The Huskers’ momentum shifted in the third quarter when freshman quarterback Dylan Raiola suffered a right ankle injury after being sacked and did not return. Head coach Matt Rhule later confirmed that trainers kept Raiola out for precautionary reasons, noting Raiola’s previous ankle issues and pain level.
Freshman TJ Lateef took over at quarterback, but Nebraska’s offense stalled late. After a 39-yard field goal by Kyle Cunanan gave Nebraska a 17-14 lead early in the fourth, USC responded with Miller’s 6-yard touchdown run. The Trojans’ defense then held, and Nebraska’s final drive ended when Johnson slipped on a fourth-and-1 attempt, allowing USC to run out the clock.
This game marked Nebraska’s first full “Blackout” since 2020, with players and over 86,000 fans clad in black. Despite the atmosphere, the Cornhuskers could not break their streak against Top 25 teams. USC improved to 2-5 in Big Ten away games since joining the conference and will host Northwestern next. Nebraska travels to UCLA for its next matchup.
For more on the matchup and game statistics, visit the USC vs Nebraska Box Score on ESPN and follow the Nebraska Cornhuskers Football program for updates on Dylan Raiola and team news.