USC Football News: Trojans' Rise to No. 14 Highlighted by Moss' Career-Best Game

The USC Trojans are making waves in the 2024 college football season. They’ve climbed an impressive nine spots in the USA Today Coaches Poll , shooting up from No. 23 to No. 14. This leap is the largest of the week, signaling a strong start to the season for the Trojans.

The surge in the rankings follows a standout performance by USC quarterback Miller Moss . Moss delivered a career-best performance with 378 yards on 27-of-36 passing and threw one touchdown in a 27-20 victory. His impressive showing not only boosted the Trojans' standing but also earned him the Big Ten Offensive Player of the Week honors. His Heisman Trophy odds have also taken a notable jump.

Reflecting on the victory, Moss emphasized the importance of looking beyond individual games.

“I think it’s really important to keep in mind that the goal of the season was not to beat LSU,” Moss said on ESPN's SportsCenter .

“Obviously, we wanted to start on a high note. I think we did a good job in doing that. But the only way that we’re going to accomplish what we want to accomplish is if we keep climbing as a team. And we really have to attack our preparation each and every week.”

With the momentum from their recent victory, the Trojans face their next challenge: the Utah State Aggies. USC will be returning to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for their home opener on Saturday, Sept. 7, at 8 p.m. PT. It’s crucial for the Trojans not to underestimate the Aggies as they aim to maintain their upward trajectory.

For those keeping an eye on the rankings, here’s the full USA Today Coaches Poll:

1. Georgia
2. Ohio State
3. Texas
4. Alabama
5. Ole Miss
6. Oregon
7. Notre Dame
8. Penn State
9. Michigan
10. Missouri
11. Utah
12. Tennessee
13. Oklahoma
14. USC
15. Miami
16. Kansas State
17. Oklahoma State
18. Arizona
19. LSU
20. Kansas
21. Iowa
22. Clemson
23. North Carolina State
24. Louisville
25. Washington