USC Triumphs in Big Ten Home Debut with Comeback Win Over Wisconsin

Photo by Antoine Belote

LOS ANGELES — On September 28, 2024, the USC Trojans officially launched their Big Ten era at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, facing off against the Wisconsin Badgers in a game that delivered drama, momentum swings, and a thrilling comeback. USC, after trailing by double digits at halftime, stormed back to claim a commanding 38-21 victory in front of a packed home crowd.

The game began with Wisconsin seizing control early. Badgers quarterback Braedyn Locke made a statement in the first half, delivering a stunning 63-yard touchdown pass to Vinnie Anthony II — the receiver’s first collegiate touchdown and Wisconsin’s longest passing score in three years. Complementing Locke’s play was running back Tawee Walker, who found the end zone twice on the ground, helping Wisconsin jump out to a 21-10 halftime lead.

But what looked like a potential Wisconsin upset quickly turned into a Trojan resurgence. USC’s offense, sluggish in the first half, roared to life after the break. Quarterback Miller Moss orchestrated a masterful performance, finishing the game with 308 yards through the air and three touchdown passes. Moss’s connection with wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane proved deadly, as Lane snagged 10 receptions for 105 yards and two critical second-half touchdowns.

USC’s defense also stepped up when it mattered most. After giving up over 250 yards in the first half, the Trojans clamped down, allowing just 47 yards in the second half and keeping the Badgers scoreless. The defensive effort, led by linebacker Mason Cobb and safety Bryson Shaw, set the stage for USC’s offense to take over.

By the fourth quarter, the Trojans had seized full control. Moss found tight end Lake McRee for a touchdown that put USC ahead for good, and a late rushing touchdown from MarShawn Lloyd sealed the game. The victory showcased the Trojans’ ability to adapt under pressure and reaffirmed their status as one of the Big Ten’s most formidable new contenders.

“We knew we had to stay calm and trust each other,” said Moss after the game. “Coach Riley reminded us at halftime to focus on execution, and we came out ready to play our game.”

For Wisconsin, the game was a tale of missed opportunities. The Badgers’ offense that thrived in the first half sputtered in the second, unable to match the Trojans’ relentless pace. Head coach Luke Fickell acknowledged the team’s struggles, saying, “We played a great first half, but in this league, you have to put together a full 60 minutes. We’ll learn from this.”

The win marked a historic moment for USC, not just as their first Big Ten home game but also as a showcase of their depth and determination. Fans left the Coliseum buzzing with optimism as the Trojans eye a potential run at the conference title.

For Wisconsin, the loss highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining consistency across four quarters. Both teams, however, demonstrated why the Big Ten’s new look is poised to deliver some of college football’s most exciting matchups.

As USC celebrates this pivotal win, one thing is clear: the Trojans are ready to make their mark in their new conference home.

Photo by Antoine Belote