USC football: 3 takeaways from season-defining win over Notre Dame

Trojans’ quarterback had prime time all to himself, and he did not disappoint, putting on a show for Heisman Trophy voters in USC football’s 11-point victory in their home finale. Williams threw for 232 yards and a touchdown, adding three rushing touchdowns in the win. The Irish were outmanned and outclassed by a USC team looking to keep its College Football Playoff dreams alive tonight.

The Trojans were going to Las Vegas to play for the Pac-12 Conference Championship no matter what happened tonight but needed a win to keep its hope for a playoff berth alive. The win was pivotal because LSU lost to Texas A&M, Ohio State lost to Michigan, and Clemson lost to South Carolina. All three losses make USC’s case for the final four more compelling.

The Trojans need to close the deal in Los Vegas against either Oregon or Utah to get into the playoffs.

The Irish trailed early and could not get any stops to flip the score. USC did a good job of neutralizing Notre Dame’s power running game, though quarterback Drew Pyne played his best game this season, throwing for 318 yards and three touchdowns. The Trojans had an answer for every Notre Dame score, playing with a lead all night.

Here is more on USC football’s home win against the Irish.