**Sapo:** The reigning national champion Michigan Wolverines defeated the 11th-ranked USC Trojans 27-24 in a thrilling comeback victory at Michigan Stadium on Saturday, officially welcoming USC to the Big Ten.
The Michigan Wolverines put on a gritty performance in the second half to secure a thrilling 27-24 victory over the 11th-ranked USC Trojans on Saturday, marking a momentous occasion as USC officially joined the Big Ten conference.
Michigan Wolverines Welcome USC to Big Ten with Comeback Victory
Trailing 24-20 with just over four minutes remaining in the game, the Wolverines showed their championship mettle. Kalel Mullings, who had a stellar performance throughout the game, burst through the Trojan defense for a 63-yard run to set the Wolverines up at the USC 17-yard line.
After several determined plays, Mullings found the end zone on a fourth-and-goal from the 1-yard line, giving Michigan a 27-24 lead with just 37 seconds remaining. The Wolverines' defense then stood strong, forcing a turnover on downs and securing the hard-fought victory.
Michigan Wolverines Welcome USC to Big Ten with Comeback Victory
The game was a tale of two halves, with Michigan dominating the first half and USC rallying in the second. The Wolverines entered halftime with a comfortable 14-3 lead but struggled to maintain momentum in the second half, failing to gain a first down on their first five drives.
However, Michigan's resilience shone through when it mattered most. After recovering a Trojan fumble inside the 10-yard line, the Wolverines were poised to extend their lead. However, a costly fumble by Kenneth Grant gave USC another chance, which the Trojans capitalized on with a touchdown to make it a 20-17 game.
Michigan Wolverines Welcome USC to Big Ten with Comeback Victory
More adversity struck when Donovan Edwards fumbled the ball on Michigan's own end, leading to another USC touchdown and a 24-20 lead. But the Wolverines refused to be denied.
With the game seemingly slipping away, Michigan regained possession with four minutes left. Mullings' explosive run set the stage for the game-winning touchdown, while the defense came up with a crucial stop to seal the victory.
The win was a significant one for Michigan, which suffered a disappointing loss to Texas two weeks ago. It also served as a strong statement for USC, which entered the game as a four-point favorite.
Mullings led the Wolverines' offense with 159 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries, while Edwards added 74 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Miller Moss completed 28 of 51 passes for USC for 283 yards, three touchdowns, and an interception.
With the victory, Michigan improves to 3-1 on the season and returns home next week for a Big Ten matchup against Minnesota. USC, now 2-1, will host Wisconsin for its first home Big Ten battle.
