In a thrilling season opener, USC emerged victorious over LSU, 27-20, with Miller Moss leading an electrifying late-game drive. Kyron Hudson's remarkable one-handed catch in the dying seconds set the Trojans up for victory, while LSU's Garrett Nussmeier's heroic efforts fell short.
The start of new eras for both USC and LSU was marked by a captivating season opener in Las Vegas. While USC celebrated a resounding victory, LSU's aspirations for an ideal start were dashed.
Stepping into the shoes of Heisman Trophy finalist Caleb Williams, Miller Moss exhibited nerves of steel. The Trojans' young quarterback orchestrated a masterful late-game drive, completing his first five passes with pinpoint accuracy. With just 18 seconds remaining, Moss found Kyron Hudson for a stunning one-handed reception, propelling USC into field goal range.
USC Triumphs Over LSU in Season Opener, Miller Moss Shines as Kyron Hudson Secures Game-Winning Catch
As Hudson made the game-altering catch, LSU's Jardin Gilbert committed a costly targeting penalty, advancing the Trojans to the LSU 13-yard line. Running back Woody Marks capitalized on the opportunity, scampering into the end zone for his second touchdown of the night. The score gave USC a 27-20 lead with just eight seconds left on the clock.
Earlier in the game, Hudson had already made a remarkable contribution with a spectacular one-handed catch in the second quarter. Two plays later, Marks found the end zone to give USC an early 7-0 advantage.
USC Triumphs Over LSU in Season Opener, Miller Moss Shines as Kyron Hudson Secures Game-Winning Catch
LSU responded with a touchdown courtesy of Kyren Lacy. However, Lacy's exuberant celebration, which involved pretending to fire a gun, resulted in a 15-yard penalty on the ensuing kickoff. USC capitalized on the mistake, ultimately settling for a field goal. LSU matched the score, and USC missed a field goal just before halftime, leaving the game tied at 10.
The second half commenced with a flurry of punts before USC found its rhythm midway through the third quarter, adding three points to its tally. LSU countered with a seven-play, 73-yard touchdown drive, culminating in Nussmeier's second touchdown pass to Aaron Anderson.
USC Triumphs Over LSU in Season Opener, Miller Moss Shines as Kyron Hudson Secures Game-Winning Catch
Facing a crucial 4th and 9 on LSU's 36-yard line, Moss opted to go for it. However, his pass fell incomplete. But the Trojans swiftly forced a three-and-out, setting the stage for a three-play drive that ended with Moss connecting with Ja'Kobi Lane for a stunning over-the-shoulder touchdown grab. USC regained the lead 20-17 with 5:44 remaining. LSU responded with a game-tying field goal, but it proved futile.
Moss completed an impressive 27 of 36 passes for a career-high 378 yards, while Marks rushed for 68 yards on 16 carries, including two touchdowns. Nussmeier, in his first start as LSU's quarterback, impressed by going 29-for-38 for 304 yards through the air. Lacy led all receivers with seven receptions for 94 yards.
USC's victory is likely to propel them up the rankings, as they prepare to host Utah State on Saturday. LSU, on the other hand, faces an uncertain fate heading into their home game against Nicholls next weekend.
