USC Football News: 3 Key Takeaways From The Trojans HUGE Win Over LSU

The USC Trojans kicked off their season with a thrilling 27-20 victory over the LSU Tigers, marking a successful start as they transition into the Big Ten. Here are three key takeaways from the game.

Miller Moss Is The Guy

Quarterback Miller Moss showcased his skills in the season opener, completing 27 of 36 passes for 378 yards and one touchdown. Moss, who was named the starter just weeks before the game, demonstrated poise under pressure. In a critical moment late in the fourth quarter, he executed a two-minute drill that led to a touchdown, helping the Trojans secure the win.

Lincoln Riley's Coaching Decisions Under Scrutiny

Despite the victory, questions arose about head coach Lincoln Riley's time management. He opted not to call a timeout before LSU's field goal at the end of the first half, which left the Trojans without a chance to score before halftime. Additionally, he used two timeouts during the same drive in the second half, which could have impacted the team's late-game strategy.

The Trojans have a Defense

The Trojans' defense showed significant progress compared to last season, limiting LSU to just 20 points. New defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn's influence was evident, as the team made crucial stops, including a red zone field goal in the final minutes. However, the defense still needs to work on applying consistent pressure, as LSU's quarterback completed over 76% of his passes.

Related: USC Football News: Miller Moss Shares Emotional Moment After Upsetting LSU Tigers

Overall, the Trojans' opening win sets a positive tone for the season ahead, but there are areas for improvement as they move forward.