USC dominates Utah State in 48-0 victory
- USC's defense achieved its first shutout since 2011, limiting Utah State to 190 total yards.
- Miller Moss passed for 229 yards and a touchdown, while Jayden Maiava added a rushing touchdown.
- The Trojans' dominant performance positions them for a potential rise in the rankings as they head into a tough schedule.
In a dominant performance on Saturday night, No. 13 Southern California achieved a 48-0 victory over Utah State at the Coliseum. This marked USC's first shutout since 2011, showcasing a significant improvement in their defense under the guidance of defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn. The Trojans limited the Aggies to just 190 total yards, with only 103 yards passing, demonstrating their defensive prowess throughout the game. Miller Moss, in his first home start, contributed significantly by passing for 229 yards and a touchdown before being replaced by UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava, who also rushed for a touchdown. The Trojans' offense was efficient, amassing 544 total yards, and they maintained control of the game from start to finish. Coach Lincoln Riley emphasized the importance of maintaining defensive performance, which was evident as the team executed their game plan effectively. The game was not without its challenges, including a power outage that briefly interrupted play. However, the Trojans remained focused and continued to execute their strategy. Utah State's interim head coach Nate Dreiling acknowledged the difficulty of facing such a well-rounded team, noting USC's explosive offense and sound defense. As USC prepares for a challenging upcoming schedule in Big Ten play, this victory serves as a strong foundation for their season. The Trojans are likely to rise in the rankings, with a top-10 position within reach if they continue to perform at this level.