Ware’s huge night powers USC to a 38-21 victory over Oregon State.

USC was in need of a victory after dropping two straight games. A game against Oregon State just might be what the doctor ordered for the Trojans. All eyes were on the USC offense after the changes. The play calling didn’t look all too different as the Trojans just went with quick passes to allow their play makers to make plays in space and ran the ball. On USC’s first three drives of the game it reached the end zone all three times. By the second quarter the Trojans had a 21-0 lead.

It appeared USC would run away with this game, however Oregon State’s offense would find success with the quick routes and burn the Trojans down the field for a touchdown. After the Trojans went three and out, Oregon State drove 85 yards to cut the USC lead down to seven before the half. USC and Oregon State both scored on their first drive of the second half. It appeared that the Beavers would tie the game up with momentum early in fourth quarter, but the Trojans’ defense buckled down to stop the Beavers. USC would tack on 10 fourth quarter points to put the Beavers away for good.

USC senior running back Aca’Cedric Ware had a huge night on the ground, rushing for 205 and three touchdowns. Ware broke off for two huge runs on two of his touchdowns. One for 57 to begin the second quarter and the game deciding 62 yard run for a touchdown. Redshirt Sophomore running back Vavae Malepeai added on 101 yards rushing off 15 carries. Freshman quarterback JT Daniels was also solid in his return, going 17-26 for 177 yards and a lone touchdown pass to freshman wide receiver Devon Williams. Speaking of Williams, the catch was his first career touchdown reception.

The USC defense held Oregon State to under 100 yards rushing, however the had issues generating some consistent pressure despite having 6 sacks on the night. Beavers quarterback Jake Luton picked the Trojans defense apart with the quick passes and not allowing the USC defensive line to get much pressure on him. Things looked worrisome for a little while as Oregon State was driving early in the fourth quarter, but the Trojans ability to keep their composure and buckle down to keep the Beavers from scoring, played a huge part in their victory.

The win now moves the Trojans into a three way tie in the Pac-12 South with Arizona State controlling their own destiny with their win over Utah on Saturday. Both the Sun Devils and Utes own the tie breaker over the Trojans due to the head to head meetings. In order for USC to return to the Pac-12 Championship game, they must defeat Cal and UCLA while Arizona State and Utah must lose at least one of their remaining Pac-12 Games.