USC’s Frustrating Fallout: A 49-35 Loss to Notre Dame Marks Another Disappointing Season

USC faced Notre Dame in its regular-season finale, losing 49-35. For USC, the loss was disappointing, especially given their past victories under Coach Lincoln Riley. The game highlighted how far the program has fallen since a dominant win against Notre Dame two years ago.

Despite starting with high hopes, the season quickly spiraled. The team finished with a 6-6 record, and each loss was marked by missed opportunities. Coach Riley called the defeat “excruciating.”

USC’s new quarterback, Jayden Maiava, showed promise, throwing for three touchdowns and rushing for two more, but critical mistakes hurt the team. His last two passes resulted in interceptions returned for touchdowns, ending any chance of a comeback. After the game, Maiava took responsibility for the turnovers. He said, “I let the team down.”

The Trojans’ defense struggled against Notre Dame’s run game, allowing 258 rushing yards. In addition, USC lost its top running back, Woody Marks, early in the game due to injury. Coach Riley noted that losing Marks impacted the team’s performance.

Riley mentioned other factors contributing to the defeat, like a failed fake punt by Notre Dame and critical penalties against USC. He expressed pride in how hard his team fought throughout a frustrating season, urging them to keep pushing forward.

Despite the disappointment, USC remains focused on the future. Two years after their significant victory against Notre Dame, the Trojans continue to seek a return to form and success on the field.