USC faces Texas A&M in a thrilling Las Vegas Bowl showdown
- USC Trojans achieved a thrilling victory against Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl.
- The Trojans turned around a challenging season ending with a 7-6 record.
- This victory offers the Trojans and their fans hope for the upcoming season.
In the United States, the USC Trojans concluded their 2024 season with a thrilling victory against Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl held at Allegiant Stadium. On December 28, 2024, the Trojans, led by quarterback Jayden Maiava, overcame a 17-point deficit in the second half to secure a 35-31 win. Maiava, who is a graduate of Liberty High School and transferred from UNLV, finished the game with 295 passing yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions, showcasing a remarkable performance despite the team's seasonal struggles. The game saw Texas A&M take a commanding lead early in the second half, fueled by their quarterback, Marcel Reed, who rushed for a touchdown and passed for several others. However, USC's resilience was tested as they battled back from the brink of defeat. Maiava’s leadership on the final drive, which culminated in a 7-yard touchdown to tight end Kyle Ford with just eight seconds remaining, was pivotal in turning the game around. This victory marked an end to USC's tumultuous season, where they had previously struggled with numerous roster changes due to the transfer portal and injuries. The match was characterized by several key moments, including penalties against Texas A&M that allowed USC to regain momentum at critical junctures. The Aggies, finishing the game with eight penalties totaling 73 yards, were unable to maintain their advantage late in the fourth quarter. The errors came back to haunt them as the Trojans capitalized on the opportunities afforded by these setbacks. This victory not only concludes the Trojans' season on a high note but also raises questions about the future of their program, with head coach Lincoln Riley emphasizing the need for introspection and improvements as they prepare for next season. The game's thrilling finale has reignited hope among USC fans for a brighter future as they rebuild and strengthen their roster heading into 2025.