Wed Nov 27 03:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Flu-Ridden USC Rallies to Defeat UCLA in Thrilling Crosstown Showdown

**PASADENA, Calif.** — Overcoming a mid-week flu outbreak that sidelined 27 players and staff, the USC Trojans battled back from a fourth-quarter deficit to defeat crosstown rivals UCLA 19-13 in a nail-biting 94th Crosstown Showdown at the Rose Bowl. The victory secured bowl eligibility for the Trojans (6-5, 4-5 Big Ten), marking their fifth straight win in the series when playing away.

Jayden Maiava led the Trojan offense, throwing for 221 yards, culminating in a crucial 4-yard touchdown pass to Ja’Kobi Lane midway through the fourth quarter. Woody Marks contributed 76 rushing yards, while Michael Lantz’s four field goals proved vital in securing the win. A key play in the winning drive saw Makai Lemon complete a 39-yard pass off a lateral to Kyron Hudson, setting up Lane’s game-changing reception.

UCLA (4-7, 3-6) fought hard, with Ethan Garbers throwing for 265 yards and J. Michael Sturdivant catching five passes for 117 yards. T.J. Harden added 98 rushing yards for the Bruins. UCLA took the lead in the third quarter, but ultimately couldn’t hold on in the face of USC’s late-game surge and strong defensive performance. Coach DeShaun Foster lamented the Bruins’ inability to finish games, attributing their losses to late-game collapses.

USC coach Lincoln Riley praised his team’s resilience, likening the week’s challenges to navigating a COVID-19 season. He highlighted the team’s defensive prowess in holding UCLA at crucial moments.

The win extends USC’s dominance in the recent rivalry, with the Trojans claiming 19 of the last 26 matchups. Both teams face upcoming games: USC hosts No. 6 Notre Dame next Saturday, while UCLA welcomes Fresno State.

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