LOS ANGELES — USC delivered a statement on Saturday night, defeating No. 2 Ohio State 30-18 in a result that stands as the most significant win of head coach Lincoln Riley's tenure with the Trojans.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava led the way through the air, passing for 222 yards and a touchdown. The ground game provided balance, with King Miller and Waymond Jordan each rushing for scores.
The victory over the second-ranked Buckeyes represents a landmark moment for Riley, who arrived at USC with high expectations but had yet to secure a win of this magnitude. The Trojans controlled the contest throughout, holding Ohio State to 18 points while generating enough offense to pull away.
For local fans in the Los Angeles area, the win carries added weight: it signals that USC can compete with the nation's elite programs under Riley's leadership. The Trojans' defense limited a highly regarded Ohio State offense, while Maiava's efficient passing and the contributions of Miller and Jordan on the ground proved decisive.
The upset reshapes the national conversation around both programs. Ohio State, ranked No. 2 entering the game, absorbs a costly loss, while USC adds a signature victory to its resume. The Trojans will look to build on the momentum as the season continues.
