USC bounces back with 48-17 Victory over Arizona State

USC came into Tempe, looking to recover from their embarrassing loss in South Bend. Many wondered how the Trojans would respond after their loss to Notre Dame. You can say USC responded just fine as they handled Arizona State from start to finish. The Sun Devils were coming off back to back wins over Utah and Washington, however USC flexed their muscles and have a very solid night on both sides of the ball in route to a 48-17 victory.

Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The first half was all USC as they managed to put up 31 points on the Sun Devils after only scoring 14 vs Notre Dame last week. The Trojans offense was clicking early and playing up to their potential thanks to Sam Darnold’s 3 touchdown passes in the game. The Trojans defense also held the Sun Devils in check with 5 sacks in the game. Controversy struck with a second left in the 1st half. Arizona State threw a Hail Mary which the pass was completed off the tip by Sun Devils receiver Kyle Williams. The play was ruled short of the end zone, however Pac-12 officiating reviewed the play for a good 10 minutes and reversed the call to give the Sun Devils the touchdown heading into the half.

Arizona State tried to gain some momentum back on the opening drive with a touchdown to cut the lead to 14, however Ronald Jones II 64 yard touchdown run would put an end to the Sun Devils rally. Jones had a huge night on the ground, rushing for 216 yards on 18 carries. He and Darnold really powered the USC offense which gained 602 total yards. USC defense also limited the Sun Devils running game to 82 yards rushing and pressured ASU quarterback Manny Wilkins the whole night.

Next week they will return to the Coliseum to face a hot Arizona Wildcats team led by quarterback Kahlil Tate. The winner of that game will take sole possession of first place in the Pac-12 South.