On Saturday night, the USC football team went on the road to Lincoln and got a 21-17 victory over Nebraska. It was not the prettiest affair by any means, but the Trojans were able to do just enough to win the football game.
What went well for the Trojans in the game, and in what areas did they struggle? Here are some positives and negatives from the contest:
Positive: The defense
The much-criticized USC defense had its best game of the season, giving up just 17 points. After allowing an opening drive touchdown, the Trojans gave up just ten points the rest of the way. D’Anton Lynn’s unit also forced a fumble deep in USC territory after Nebraska took over with a short field.
Positive: King Miller
It was another impressive game for Miller, who has taken over as USC’s top running back following injuries to Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders. Miller carried the ball 18 times for 129 yards and a touchdown.
Positive: Special teams
USC kicker Ryon Sayeri was made both of his field goal attempts, including a 49-yarder. Nebraska’s Ryan Cunanan, on the other hand, missed a 52-yarder that would have put the Huskers up by two scores. The Trojans tied the game on the following possession, completely changing the outlook of the contest.
Negative: Jayden Maiava
Maiava had perhaps his worst game in Cardinal and Gold. He completed just 9 of his 23 pass attempts for 135 yards, no touchdowns, and an interception (although he did add 62 yards and a score on the ground).
Negative: The wide receivers
With Maiava struggling, it was naturally also a bad game for USC’s wide receivers. Both Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane were effectively non-factors in the game, combining for just four catrches for 40 yards.
Negative: The quality of football
Finally, let’s be honest: This was an ugly football game. Credit to USC for finding a way to win it, but that was not particularly pleasant to watch.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Positives and negatives from USC’s season-saving road victory over Nebraska
Reporting by Adam Bradford, Trojans Wire / Trojans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
