USC’s offense put on a show Saturday night, outpacing Michigan State 45-31 in a game that showcased both the Trojans’ firepower and their lingering defensive concerns. The win at the Los Angeles Coliseum keeps No. 25 USC unbeaten and marks their best start since Lincoln Riley’s debut season in 2022.
Maiava and Lemon Light Up the Coliseum
Quarterback
Jayden Maiava was the star of the night, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for two more. His connection with wide receiver
Makai Lemon proved lethal—Lemon hauled in a 40-yard touchdown catch and added a rushing score, finishing with 127 receiving yards. Running back
Waymond Jordan also made his presence felt, racking up 157 yards on the ground.
USC’s offense was relentless, scoring touchdowns on four of their first five drives and not punting until the final minute. The Trojans’ ability to move the ball at will kept Michigan State’s defense on its heels all night.
Michigan State Fights, But Mistakes Prove Costly
The Spartans, led by quarterback
Aidan Chiles, struck first with a 42-yard touchdown pass to Chrishon McCray. But while Michigan State showed flashes of explosiveness—including a late 75-yard touchdown pass to Omari Kelly—they struggled to keep pace with USC’s high-octane attack.
Penalties were a major issue for both teams, but especially for USC. The Trojans committed 10 penalties, several of which extended Michigan State drives and led directly to points. One Michigan State touchdown drive in the third quarter was kept alive by four separate USC penalties, highlighting the Trojans’ ongoing discipline issues.
Key Moments and Turning Points
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USC surged ahead near halftime, with Walker Lyons’ touchdown catch putting them up 31-10 just after the break.
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Michigan State rallied in the second half, capitalizing on a USC fumble and penalty-aided drives to close the gap to 38-31 late in the fourth quarter.
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USC sealed the win with a clock-chewing drive capped by Maiava’s second rushing touchdown, putting the game out of reach with under three minutes to play.
What This Means for Both Teams
For USC, the win cements their status as a Big Ten contender, but the defensive lapses and penalty problems are red flags as the schedule toughens. The Trojans were missing starting receiver Ja’Kobi Lane due to injury, but their depth at skill positions was on full display.
Michigan State, now 3-1 (0-1 Big Ten), showed resilience but will need to clean up mistakes and get healthier—especially with several key players nursing injuries—to compete in the conference. The Spartans have a bye week to regroup before their next challenge.
Takeaways and What’s Next
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USC’s offense is among the nation’s best, but defensive discipline must improve if they hope to contend for a Big Ten title.
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Michigan State’s young core showed promise, but depth and execution remain concerns.
- Both teams face pivotal stretches ahead, with USC looking to maintain momentum and Michigan State aiming to bounce back after their first loss of the season.
Sources
1. Jayden Maiava leads USC to win over Michigan State
2. V-Cast: Michigan State facing uphill battle at explosive USC in Big Ten opener
3. Michigan State Spartans vs. USC Trojans Live Score and ...
4. USC Asks Fans to Light Up Coliseum vs. Michigan State | 2 Min News
5. Michigan State football trampled by USC, 45-31, in Big Ten ...
6. USC Football vs Michigan State Post Game Press Conference | Trojans Win 45-31
7. USC Trojans Football Game Day vs. Michigan State Spartans
8. MSU football can make EARLY STATEMENT on road vs. USC; Have the Trojans improved enough?
9. Michigan State at USC | Highlights | Big Ten Football | 9/20/2025
10. USC vs Michigan State Breakdown: Bold Predictions, Spread Shockers & Top‑25 Battle!
