USC defeats Arizona 49-35 in Pac-12 South Showdown

The Pac-12 South was on the line in another Pac-12 After Dark game. It was indeed a wild one as the Trojans came away with a 49-35 victory over Arizona.

USC welcomed an Arizona Wildcat team led by quarterback Kahlil Tate, who has caught national attention for his play the last few weeks. The big story was during the first half saw the Trojans defense contained Kahlil Tate, bottling up the Arizona offense and holding them to only 6 points. The second half it appeared as if the Trojans would run away with the game leading 28-6 mid way through the third. However after penalties, reviews over nothing, and USC offensive miscues, the Arizona offense came alive. Arizona scored two quick points which included a 32 yard rush from Tate to come within 8 early in the 4th quarter. USC would score thanks to a Aca’Cedric Ware 42 yard rush to put USC up 35-20. Kahlil Tate would continue to come alive with two more scores to tie the game at 35 all. Ronald Jones would help the USC offense late with two key rushes to set up touchdowns to put the game away. Kahlil Tate threw two key interceptions which helped USC put the game away.

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

While Tate came alive in the second half, The USC defense has done its job to contain the Arizona quarterback by sacking him 5 times and forcing 3 turnovers. USC also gained 600 yards in total offense for the second straight week. Ronald Jones II rushed for 194 yards and 3 scores while going over 1,000 yards for the second straight season, making him the first USC running back to rush for over 1,000 in back to back seasons since LenDale White in 2004-2005. Sam Darnold had another solid night passing for 311 yards and 2 touchdowns and one interception.

With the win USC now has total control over the Pac-12 South and can take the division with a win over Colorado next week or losses by Arizona and Arizona State.