USC Stuns Ohio State as Riley Declares His Commitment

USC seized control early and held on for a 30-18 win over second-ranked Ohio State at the Coliseum on October 31. The Trojans improved to 7-2, while the Buckeyes fell to 6-2 in a season disrupted by the loss of starting quarterback Julian Sayin, who is not expected back this season, one report said.

Receiver Trent Mosley scored on a 69-yard catch-and-run on USC’s second play from scrimmage. Tight end Mark Bowman later broke free for a long gain that included a hurdle and several broken tackles. USC also stopped Ohio State near the goal line, holding the Buckeyes to a field goal.

Ohio State’s freshman quarterback Luke Fahey completed 21 of 38 passes for 260 yards without a turnover. But penalties stalled drives, and the Buckeyes settled for four field goals. Coach Ryan Day said the team needed to play more cleanly. Safety Jaylen McClain pointed to a lack of effort on Mosley’s touchdown.

After the game, Riley answered a question about USC’s playoff prospects emphatically, saying the team could still reach the College Football Playoff. He then took out prepared notes and said the program was built on “internal joy, not external applause.” Riley added that he believed he was the right person for the job and intended to keep fighting for USC.

The victory puts USC back in playoff contention, but losses to Indiana or UCLA would end that path. Ohio State faces a key test as the selection committee prepares to release its first rankings on Tuesday. The Buckeyes’ outlook will be weighed against their record with Sayin and uncertainty about their remaining season without him.