No. 12 USC survives Rutgers in Big Ten opener amid defensive issues
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 1:12 AM
Last updated Sep 20, 2026
No. 12 USC won 42-35 against Rutgers in their Big Ten opener on September 19. Despite the victory, USC's defense struggled throughout the match, allowing Rutgers to gain 460 total yards. USC's Prophet Brown returned an interception for a touchdown, providing a crucial cushion. However, offensive penalties and missed opportunities kept Rutgers competitive, as they had multiple chances to score. USC moves to 4-0 while concerns about their overall performance linger.
- •USC scored 42 points but allowed 35 to Rutgers.
- •USC gained 460 yards but had multiple penalties.
- •Rutgers remains winless at 0-3 this season.
- •Prophet Brown's interception return was key for USC.
- •USC's next matchup will test their defensive improvements.
- 1:12 AMYahoo Sports — USC holds off Rutgers to stay perfect in Big Ten opener
- 11:40 PMYahoo Sports — No. 12 USC defeats Rutgers in Big Ten opener, but defensive woes detract from win
"No. 12 USC defeats Rutgers 42-35 in its Big Ten opener, but concerns about the defense continue to cast doubts over the Trojans' playoff readiness.
"The Trojans took care of business on the road, opening conference play in a back-and-forth battle.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 20, 2026, 1:12 AMUSC holds off Rutgers to stay perfect in Big Ten opener
The Trojans took care of business on the road, opening conference play in a back-and-forth battle.
- Yahoo SportsSep 19, 2026, 11:40 PMNo. 12 USC defeats Rutgers in Big Ten opener, but defensive woes detract from win
No. 12 USC defeats Rutgers 42-35 in its Big Ten opener, but concerns about the defense continue to cast doubts over the Trojans' playoff readiness.
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