LOS ANGELES , CA— Quarterback Jayden Maiava accounted for five total touchdowns and led No. 25 USC to a 45–31 win over Michigan State on Saturday night, as the Trojans maintained their unbeaten record in a Big Ten showdown that was far more competitive than expected.
Maiava threw for three scores and ran for two more, while Makai Lemon made plays through the air and on the ground, helping USC (4–0, 2–0 Big Ten) overcome a second-half scare and notch its best start since 2022.
Trojans Strike Early, Survive Late Rally
USC opened the night with clinical offensive execution, scoring touchdowns on four of its first five drives and building a commanding 31–10 lead early in the third quarter. However, a series of penalties and a costly turnover opened the door for Michigan State (3–1, 0–1) to claw back into the game.
The Spartans cut the deficit to one possession after Aidan Chiles rushed for a touchdown and then led a short scoring drive off a USC fumble, ending with a Jack Velling TD grab.
With momentum hanging in the balance, USC responded with a 13-play drive capped by Lemon’s touchdown on a jet sweep. Maiava sealed the win with a late rushing score—his fifth total touchdown of the game.
Maiava, Lemon Power Trojans’ Offensive Showcase
Maiava was efficient and dynamic throughout the night, finishing 18-of-28 for 236 yards and three touchdowns through the air, while rushing for two more scores. His connection with Lemon proved dangerous—Lemon totaled 127 receiving yards, including a 40-yard touchdown grab, and added a rushing score.
Running back Waymond Jordan also had a big night, tallying 157 rushing yards, including a key gain late in the second quarter that set up a touchdown. USC’s offense racked up 517 total yards, passing 460 yards for the fourth straight game—something it accomplished only once in the final nine games last season.
“This was a game that had a lot of momentum swings,” said head coach Lincoln Riley. “We had some costly mistakes, especially in the third quarter, but I was proud of how our guys responded and reestablished control.”
Chiles Shows Promise in Defeat for Spartans
Michigan State’s freshman quarterback Aidan Chiles, a Long Beach native, put up a strong performance in front of a Southern California crowd. He threw for three touchdowns, rushed for another, and accounted for 243 of the Spartans’ 333 total yards.
His highlight came late in the fourth quarter when he connected with Omari Kelly on a 75-yard touchdown to keep the game within reach.
However, turnovers and missed opportunities ultimately doomed the Spartans, who were seeking just their second 4–0 start in the past decade.
Game Marred by Scary Injury
The game was paused for over 10 minutes late in the second quarter when Michigan State linebacker Wayne Matthews suffered a frightening injury while tackling Jordan. Trainers stabilized Matthews and carted him off the field; he gave a thumbs-up to teammates before being taken to a local hospital for evaluation.
Early reports were encouraging, but head coach Jonathan Smith noted that doctors were conducting thorough tests. “Positive signs, but we’re waiting on confirmation,” Smith said.
Michigan State also lost starting linebacker Jordan Hall, who was ejected in the second half for targeting.
USC Defense Still a Work in Progress
While the Trojans’ offense impressed again, the defense struggled with coverage lapses and penalties. USC committed 10 penalties, many of which extended Spartan drives or halted defensive momentum.
“We thought we’d be better at containing Chiles,” said defensive lineman Devan Thompkins. “We’ve still got to clean up a lot of things, especially our discipline.”
Notable Performances
- Tanook Hines and Walker Lyons each hauled in touchdown passes from Maiava.
- Chrishon McCray opened Michigan State’s scoring with a 42-yard touchdown catch.
- USC did not punt until the game’s final minute.
Injuries and Availability
USC wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane missed the game due to an undisclosed injury and could remain sidelined next week, according to Riley.
Starting left tackle Elijah Paige exited at halftime and did not return.
Looking Ahead
USC (4–0, 2–0 Big Ten) will travel to Illinois for a road test on Sept. 27.
Michigan State (3–1, 0–1 Big Ten) heads into a bye week before facing Nebraska on Oct. 4.
