USC delivered the biggest win of Lincoln Riley’s tenure, beating No. 2 Ohio State 30-18 behind explosive plays from freshman Trent Mosley and a defense that kept the Buckeyes out of the end zone until late. The upset sharply boosts USC’s season after last week’s loss, while Ohio State’s College Football Playoff hopes take a hit.

By the Numbers
  • USC 30, Ohio State 18.
  • Jayden Maiava: 222 passing yards and 1 touchdown.
  • Trent Mosley: 5 catches for 101 yards, including a 69-yard touchdown.
  • Ohio State outgained USC 464-? yards.
Yes, But

Ohio State was without starting quarterback Julian Sayin, who was sidelined by an arm injury, and freshman Luke Fahey was making his first career start. But the quarterback change doesn’t explain the Buckeyes’ defensive struggles: USC produced more points than any opponent had scored against that defense since 2024.

State of Play
  • USC improved to 7-2 and has new momentum after a difficult loss to Wisconsin.
  • Ohio State fell to 6-2, its second loss of the season, but its playoff hopes remain alive.
What’s Next

Ohio State hosts Oregon on Saturday. USC has a bye before visiting Indiana on Nov. 14.

Bottom Line

USC showed it can make a serious statement against an elite opponent; Ohio State must respond quickly, with its playoff margin for error now smaller.