Ann Arbor, MI- This rivalry, which typically unfolds in the postseason at the Rose Bowl, now finds a new home as USC makes its way to the Big Ten. Historically, these teams have met 10 times, with USC holding a slight 6-4 edge, and eight of those games took place under the bright lights of the Rose Bowl. Their last encounter in 2007 saw the Trojans emerge victorious, 32-18.
Defense always sets the tone, and for Michigan, it’s been the backbone of their success, paired with a powerful run game. In today’s Big Ten clash, that formula came to life. USC’s first few possessions were lackluster, perhaps rattled by Big Ten jitters or the 100,000-plus roaring Wolverines fans. On the other side, Michigan, despite struggling in previous weeks, looked like the championship team from last year, executing key plays and finding their rhythm.
Senior Josaiah Stewart made a crucial impact early, sacking USC quarterback Miller Moss for a nine-yard loss, igniting the crowd and boosting Michigan’s confidence. Moments later, the Wolverines converted their second fourth down of the game, setting up a 53-yard touchdown run by Kalel Mullins to put Michigan on the board, 7-0. The change at quarterback, with Alex Orji leading the offense, seemed to be the spark the team needed, even though Orji only threw the ball seven times. His control over the pace of the game proved effective.
By halftime, Michigan’s offense had unleashed its running attack, showcasing not just Mullins but also star back Donovan Edwards, who broke free for a 41-yard touchdown in the second quarter to extend the lead to 14-0. While USC managed just three points and barely over 100 total yards, Michigan’s ground game dominated with 199 rushing yards. The defense, playing with championship intensity, secured another sack just before halftime, sending the crowd into a frenzy as the Wolverines headed to the locker room firmly in control.
Though trailing at halftime, USC is far from a team that crumbles under pressure. After their nail-biting win against LSU, the Trojans were fueled with determination, and the idea that this game was over was simply unfathomable. As the second half kicked off, quarterback Miller Moss came out swinging, leading a commanding 12-play, 75-yard drive that culminated in a 9-yard touchdown pass to Duce Robinson. The tension mounted, setting the stage for yet another epic clash between these powerhouse programs.
But Michigan’s defense wasn’t about to be overshadowed. Will Johnson electrified the crowd, igniting the Big House with a jaw-dropping 42-yard interception return for a touchdown, pushing the Wolverines ahead 20-10 and proving they still had the heart of champions. The third quarter became a rollercoaster of adrenaline, with thrilling plays shifting momentum in both directions. Just when it seemed Michigan was gaining unstoppable momentum, a pivotal moment left coaches pondering, “What if?” Josaiah Stewart forced a fumble that defensive lineman Kenny Grant recovered—only for Grant to fumble it right back to USC! The Trojans seized the opportunity, as Moss connected with a wide-open Jay Fair for a 16-yard touchdown, narrowing the score to 20-17 as the quarter came to a close. With the stakes higher than ever and both teams battling fiercely, the final quarter promises to be a breathtaking showdown that will leave fans on the edge of their seats!
In the second half, USC’s offense finally found its stride, moving the ball effectively and scoring more points than Michigan. However, Michigan’s relentless defense kept extinguishing the flames every time the Trojans threatened to gain momentum. Despite a few costly mistakes from quarterback Miller Moss, he made crucial plays, capitalizing on every error Michigan offered. A pivotal moment came when standout running back Donovan Edwards fumbled, gifting USC excellent field position. Miller quickly took advantage, connecting with Ja’Kobi Lane for the go-ahead touchdown, putting the Trojans ahead 24-20. In tight games like this, minimizing mistakes is crucial, and USC’s ability to capitalize on opportunities shifted the tide in their favor.
In college football, it’s not over until the fat lady sings, and this game proved just that. USC came out swinging, moving the ball effectively and putting up points, initially outpacing Michigan’s offense. However, the Wolverines’ relentless defense was always there to extinguish the Trojans’ flames, applying pressure and forcing critical mistakes. Despite a few costly errors from Miller Moss, he capitalized on every opportunity, including a pivotal fumble by Donovan Edwards that gifted USC excellent field position. Moss took advantage, connecting with Ja’Kobi Lane for the go-ahead touchdown, pushing USC ahead 24-20.
As the clock wound down, Michigan’s passing game struggled to find its rhythm, leading to a USC punt. But the Wolverines’ running attack rose to the occasion when Kalel Mullins burst through the defense for a stunning 63-yard run, putting Michigan in striking distance. With time ticking away and needing a touchdown after missing an earlier extra point, every play became crucial. On fourth down and less than 40 seconds remaining, Mullins delivered, charging into the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown that sent waves of excitement through the stadium.
With just seconds left, Michigan’s defense, which had played championship-caliber football all game, stepped up once more. They stopped a USC receiver short of the first down, securing a hard-fought victory and ending the Trojans’ winning streak. This thrilling contest not only marked Michigan’s first win in Big Ten conference play but also solidified its place as one of the best games of the year.
In a game full of ups and downs, Kalel Mullins emerged as the undeniable player of the game, powering Michigan to a thrilling victory. With his relentless motor and clutch performances, Mullins single-handedly took matters into his own hands, delivering big play after big play to keep his team in the fight. His 63-yard run late in the game set up the Wolverines’ game-winning drive, and his fourth-down touchdown sealed the win in the final seconds.
Reflecting on Michigan’s run-heavy approach, Mullins summed it up perfectly: “That’s a representation of who we are. Just grit and grinding up … grinding meat that whole time.”
Next up, Michigan returns home to face Minnesota, while USC prepares for their first Big Ten home game against Wisconsin.
