Makai Lemon delivered an impressive performance, achieving a career-high of 161 yards and one touchdown, as the University of Southern California (USC) secured a 38-17 victory against Northwestern University on Friday night. This win marked a significant achievement for the Trojans, who continue to showcase their strength at home.
USC’s Offensive Strategy Shines
Throughout the game, USC’s offense displayed remarkable cohesion, accumulating a total of 482 yards. Jayden Maiava contributed significantly, throwing for 299 yards and two touchdowns, along with a rushing score that highlighted his versatility. The Trojans’ ground game was also effective, with King Miller rushing for 127 yards and a touchdown, helping the team establish an early lead.
Lemon’s performance was a standout, particularly when he sealed the victory with a 4-yard jet sweep in the fourth quarter. This moment not only showcased his skills but also kept USC’s postseason hopes alive as the team approaches the mid-November stretch, marking their first competitive position at this stage since 2022.
Nortwestern’s Struggles Continue
For Northwestern, the game proved challenging, particularly on defense, which has struggled throughout the season. Preston Stone managed to throw for 150 yards, while Caleb Komolafe added 118 rushing yards and a touchdown, but these efforts were not enough to overcome the Trojans. The Wildcats have now lost their second game in the last six outings, and their historical record against USC remains unchanged at 0-6.
With this victory, USC extended their home winning streak to six games, solidifying their position in the Big Ten conference with a record of 7-2 overall and 5-1 in conference play. The Trojans will host Iowa on November 15, 2023, while Northwestern will return home to face Michigan on the same day.
As the college football season progresses, the spotlight remains on both teams as they navigate their upcoming challenges. The excitement surrounding the postseason continues to build, particularly for USC, with their sights set on a competitive finish.
