No. 4 Penn State's Drew Allar threw for 391 yards but also three interceptions as the Nittany Lions pulled out a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory against unranked USC, improving to 6-0 on the season.
In a heart-pounding Saturday night affair at the United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions survived a resilient effort from the unranked USC Trojans to claim a 33-30 overtime victory.
After trailing by as many as 14 points, the Nittany Lions rallied back in the second half, sparked by a trick play touchdown pass to tight end Tyler Warren. Penn State eventually tied the game at 23 in the fourth quarter, but USC responded with a touchdown of its own to retake the lead.
Penn State Sweats Out Overtime Win Against USC After Wild Fourth Quarter
With time ticking away, Penn State converted on two critical fourth-and-long plays to set up a game-tying touchdown by Nicholas Singleton. The Nittany Lions' defense then forced USC into a field goal attempt in overtime, which went wide left.
Penn State took advantage of its opportunity, with redshirt freshman kicker Ryan Barker drilling a 34-yard field goal to complete the thrilling comeback.
Penn State Sweats Out Overtime Win Against USC After Wild Fourth Quarter
USC started the game strong, taking a 20-6 lead into halftime. However, Penn State's offense came alive in the second half, with quarterback Drew Allar connecting with Warren for a 32-yard touchdown on a double pass that ignited the Lions' comeback.
Allar finished the game with 391 passing yards and three touchdowns, but his three interceptions were a concern. Warren caught 17 passes for 224 yards, including the crucial touchdown catch.
Penn State Sweats Out Overtime Win Against USC After Wild Fourth Quarter
With the victory, Penn State improved to 6-0 on the season, while USC dropped to 1-3 in Big Ten play. Penn State will have a bye next week before facing Wisconsin on the road, while USC will travel to Maryland.
The game was filled with twists and turns, and the Trojans showed great resilience in nearly pulling off the upset. However, Penn State's ability to convert on key plays and force turnovers ultimately proved to be the difference in the game.
The Nittany Lions' offense also showed its versatility, with Allar spreading the ball around to multiple receivers and Singleton providing a consistent presence in the running game.
USC's offense, led by quarterback Miller Moss, also had its moments, particularly in the first half. However, the Trojans' inability to convert on key plays in the second half and overtime ultimately cost them the game.
Both teams will be looking to learn from this game and improve their performances in the weeks to come. Penn State will face a tough test against Wisconsin next week, while USC will look to rebound against Maryland.
