The Ohio State vs USC matchup delivered one of the biggest surprises of the college football weekend. The USC Trojans defeated the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes 30-18 on Saturday, October 31, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
The victory gave USC a major boost after its disappointing loss to Wisconsin the previous week. It also marked one of the biggest wins of head coach Lincoln Riley’s tenure, as the Trojans defeated a top-five opponent at home for the first time since 2015.
USC controlled much of the game with explosive offensive plays and a strong defensive performance. Meanwhile, Ohio State struggled to turn its offensive opportunities into touchdowns, allowing the Trojans to maintain their advantage throughout the night.
Ohio State vs USC Final Score
USC defeated Ohio State by a final score of 30-18.
The Trojans established an early lead and maintained control through all four quarters. Ohio State attempted to recover in the final period, but USC held on to secure the victory.
The quarter-by-quarter score was:
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio State | 3 | 6 | 0 | 9 | 18 |
| USC | 14 | 6 | 7 | 3 | 30 |
USC entered halftime with a 20-9 advantage. A third-quarter touchdown increased the lead to 27-9, putting additional pressure on the Buckeyes.
Although Ohio State scored nine points in the fourth quarter, it could not complete the comeback.
How USC Defeated Ohio State
USC started the game with an impressive offensive statement.
On the second play from scrimmage, quarterback Jayden Maiava connected with freshman wide receiver Trent Mosley for a 69-yard touchdown. The explosive play immediately gave the Trojans a 7-0 lead.
Ohio State responded with a field goal, but USC quickly extended its advantage with a nine-yard touchdown run by Waymond Jordan.
The Trojans continued to capitalize on their opportunities during the second quarter. Meanwhile, Ohio State repeatedly struggled to finish promising drives in the red zone.
USC entered halftime leading 20-9.
The biggest turning point arrived during the third quarter when Ohio State lost a fumble. USC recovered the ball, and Maiava subsequently connected with Mark Bowman for a remarkable 70-yard gain.
The drive ended with a one-yard touchdown run by King Miller, extending USC’s lead to 27-9.
Ohio State finally scored its first touchdown late in the fourth quarter through Jeremiah Smith. However, a failed two-point conversion and USC’s recovery of the ensuing onside kick helped the Trojans close out the game.
Jayden Maiava and Trent Mosley Lead USC’s Offense
Jayden Maiava played an important role in USC’s victory over Ohio State.
The Trojans quarterback completed 15 of 22 passes for 222 yards and one touchdown. His early connection with Trent Mosley helped establish momentum, while his passing created additional opportunities throughout the game.
Freshman wide receiver Trent Mosley also delivered an impressive performance.
Mosley recorded five receptions for 101 yards, including the 69-yard touchdown that opened the scoring. His ability to create big plays gave Ohio State’s defense problems from the beginning.
Mark Bowman also contributed a major moment with his 70-yard reception during the third quarter, helping set up another USC touchdown.
Together, these performances helped USC produce an effective offensive attack against one of college football’s highest-ranked teams.
Ohio State’s Luke Fahey Faces a Difficult First Start
Ohio State entered the game with freshman quarterback Luke Fahey making his first career start.
Fahey started in place of Julian Sayin, who was unavailable after an arm injury.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Fahey completed 21 of 38 passes for 260 yards and one touchdown.
Running back Bo Jackson also had a productive night, recording 121 rushing yards. Jeremiah Smith finished with 10 receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown.
However, Ohio State struggled to convert its offensive production into points. The Buckeyes accumulated 464 total yards but scored only 18 points.
Head coach Ryan Day pointed to penalties, turnovers and missed opportunities as major reasons for the defeat.
What the USC Win Means for Lincoln Riley
The victory was particularly important for Lincoln Riley.
USC entered the matchup following a disappointing 24-7 defeat against Wisconsin. Facing the No. 2 team in the country, the Trojans needed a strong response.
Instead of allowing the previous result to define their season, USC produced a statement performance against Ohio State.
The victory marked USC’s first win over a top-five opponent at the Coliseum since 2015 and gave Riley one of the most significant results of his time leading the program.
It also provided an important boost to USC’s college football playoff hopes as the season continued.
What Happened to Ohio State’s Playoff Hopes?
Ohio State’s loss raised important questions about its position in the national championship picture.
The Buckeyes entered the game ranked No. 2 but left Los Angeles with their second defeat of the season.
The absence of starting quarterback Julian Sayin and the difficult circumstances surrounding Fahey’s first start were important factors. Nevertheless, Ohio State will need to respond quickly in its remaining schedule.
The team is scheduled to return home to face Oregon on November 7.
That upcoming matchup provides another important opportunity for the Buckeyes to strengthen their position in the college football playoff conversation.
What’s Next for USC and Ohio State?
Both programs will now turn their attention to their upcoming games.
USC will look to build on its impressive victory and maintain momentum during the remaining Big Ten schedule.
Ohio State, meanwhile, will prepare for its November 7 home matchup against Oregon.
After the loss to USC, the Buckeyes will need a much stronger performance to get their season back on track.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won Ohio State vs USC?
USC defeated Ohio State 30-18 on October 31, 2026, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
What was the Ohio State vs USC score?
The final score was USC 30, Ohio State 18. The Trojans led 20-9 at halftime.
Who was the quarterback for USC?
Jayden Maiava was USC’s starting quarterback. He completed 15 of 22 passes for 222 yards and one touchdown.
Who was Ohio State’s quarterback against USC?
Freshman Luke Fahey made his first career start for Ohio State in place of the injured Julian Sayin. He completed 21 of 38 passes for 260 yards and one touchdown.
How many yards did Trent Mosley have?
Trent Mosley recorded 101 receiving yards on five catches, including a 69-yard touchdown.
Did Ohio State lose its No. 2 ranking after the USC game?
Ohio State suffered a 30-18 defeat as the No. 2-ranked team. Its position in the next national rankings will depend on the updated polls.
Final Thoughts
The Ohio State vs USC game produced a major college football upset, with the Trojans securing a 30-18 victory over the No. 2 Buckeyes.
Jayden Maiava, Trent Mosley and Mark Bowman delivered important offensive plays, while USC’s defense kept Ohio State out of the end zone for most of the game.
For Lincoln Riley, the victory was a major statement. For Ohio State, it created new questions about the team’s ability to recover and remain in the college football playoff race.
The next few games will be important for both programs as the 2026 college football season continues.
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