Trojans Triumph: USC Edges Out LSU in a Nail-Biting Season Opener

Trojans Triumph Over Tigers in Week 1 Showdown: Final Score and Highlights

The college football season kicked off with an exhilarating matchup on Sunday, featuring No. 12 LSU and No. 23 USC in the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic.

USC pulled off a surprise victory against LSU, winning 27-20 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, thanks to a game-winning drive led by first-year starting quarterback Miller Moss. This thrilling win capped off an exciting opening weekend for college football.

The decisive touchdown came from USC running back Woody Marks, who rushed for 13 yards into the end zone just seconds before the game concluded. His scoring drive was aided by a 20-yard reception from Kyron Hudson and a 15-yard targeting penalty against LSU’s Jardin Gilbert.

Moss had an impressive performance, completing 27 out of 36 passes for 378 yards and one touchdown. In contrast, LSU’s starting quarterback Garrett Nussmeier completed 29 out of 38 attempts for 304 yards and two touchdowns.

This 27-20 loss marks LSU’s third straight season starting 0-1 under head coach Brian Kelly. The Tigers haven’t won their season opener since 2019 when Ed Orgeron was at the helm.

Catch LSU football vs USC live on Fubo (free trial)

Below are the updates, highlights, and scores from the LSU vs. USC game in Las Vegas:

Score Updates: LSU vs USC

USC Edges LSU 27-20: Trojans Claim Upset in Las Vegas

Lincoln Riley and USC depart Las Vegas with a significant win as they upset No. 12 LSU 27-20 in the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic.

The Trojans made crucial plays towards the end of the game, with Miller Moss successfully managing the two-minute drill. Woody Marks ultimately scored the game-winning touchdown after LSU’s Jardin Gilbert was ejected for targeting with just 18 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.

This marks the third consecutive season in which LSU begins 0-1 under Brian Kelly.

Touchdown for USC with Eight Seconds Remaining

USC’s Woody Marks finished a well-coordinated two-minute offensive drill with a 13-yard rushing touchdown, giving USC a lead of 27-20 with just eight seconds left in the game.

Ejection of LSU’s Jardin Gilbert for Targeting

LSU’s Jardin Gilbert was dismissed from Sunday’s matchup after being penalized for targeting during a hit on USC wide receiver Kyron Hudson. USC advanced to the 13-yard line of LSU following the penalty.

LSU Ties the Game with a Field Goal

Following a drive into the red zone, LSU was unable to score a touchdown and opted to kick a field goal instead. Damian Ramos successfully kicked a 31-yard field goal, leveling the score at 20-20.

USC regained possession with 1:47 left in the fourth quarter and only one timeout remaining, while LSU still had all three timeouts at their disposal.

LSU at the Two-Minute Timeout in the Red Zone

The Tigers advanced on offense after allowing a touchdown to the Trojans. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier connected with Aaron Anderson for a significant 41-yard reception on a third-and-short play, followed by another completion to Zavion Thomas that brought LSU to the 16-yard line. The Tigers then moved to the 13-yard line after a short carry from John Emery.

As it stands, LSU is trailing USC 20-17 as the game approached the two-minute timeout, a new feature of college football introduced this season.

USC Takes Back the Lead with a Touchdown

Miller Moss threw a precise pass to wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane for a 28-yard touchdown catch on a free play, allowing USC to reclaim the lead at 20-17 with 5:44 remaining in the fourth quarter. This impressive play unfolded over just three plays and covered 64 yards in 1:13.

This was the first score from either team since the 11:27 mark in the third quarter.

LSU Forced to Punt

USC’s defense stepped up on third-and-1, compelling LSU to punt. Both defenses tightened their grip in the second half after both teams found the end zone during their opening drives in the third quarter.

USC Turns It Over on Downs

Once again, LSU’s defense rose to the occasion, forcing USC to turn the ball over on downs. The Tigers came close to intercepting a pass when Sai’vion Jones tipped a throw from Miller Moss.

The Trojans used their second timeout in rapid succession due to difficulty with substitutions and communication on the fourth-down call, as the lively stadium was filled with a robust LSU fan presence. LSU took control of the ball, leading 17-13 with 8:38 left in the game.

Close Call for LSU’s Da’Shawn Womack on Interception

The Tigers blitzed Miller Moss again, and Da’Shawn Womack nearly made a crucial interception but ended up only getting a broken-up pass. USC faced a third-and-6 on the LSU 33-yard line with 9:25 remaining.

Entering the fourth quarter.

LSU required to punt

Josh Williams of LSU is brought down just shy of the first down, resulting in a three-and-out for the Tigers. USC takes control of the ball starting at the 15-yard line.

Third quarter: LSU leads USC 17-13

LSU carries 17-13 advantage into final quarter

It’s the fourth quarter in Las Vegas, with LSU holding a 17-13 edge over No. 23 USC. Starting the quarter, Garrett Nussmeier and the LSU offense have the ball at their own 39-yard line.

USC punts once more

The Trojans are compelled to punt for the second time this half. An unsportsmanlike conduct penalty following LSU’s extra point attempt hindered USC’s progress. The drive only gained three yards over three plays.

Garrett Nussmeier finds Aaron Anderson for a touchdown

LSU seizes its first lead of the evening at 17-13, with Aaron Anderson catching a 13-yard touchdown pass from Garrett Nussmeier.

Running back John Emery significantly contributed to the LSU scoring drive, executing a 39-yard carry on a halfback counter play that broke through USC’s defense. This scoring drive consisted of seven plays covering 78 yards and lasted 3 minutes and 25 seconds.

USC settles for a field goal after Miller Moss is sacked

Sai’vion Jones records his second sack of the night against Miller Moss, leading USC to opt for a field goal. Michael Lantz successfully converts, putting USC ahead 13-10 with 7:13 remaining in the third quarter.

A critical moment in the drive occurred on a third-and-10 at the USC 35-yard line when Moss delivered a 41-yard pass to tight end Kyle Ford, who skillfully evaded defenders after the catch, resulting in a substantial gain for the Trojans.

LSU punts as well

Garrett Nussmeier’s attempt to pass to CJ Daniels falls short of the first down, leading to a three-and-out for LSU at the beginning of the half. Both offenses aim to regain their prior momentum. USC acquires the ball at its own 23-yard line post-punt.

USC also punting

USC is unable to secure a first down, resulting in a three-and-out to kick off the second half. LSU will take over at their own 27-yard line following USC’s punt. The Tigers intensified their defense during the Trojans’ third down, forcing the punt.

USC begins second half with possession

The Trojans will start the second half with the ball, having decided to kick off first. LSU’s Kyren Lacy leads all players in Sunday’s game with seven receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown.

Halftime score: LSU 10, USC 10

Halftime statistics

Here’s a summary of team statistics at halftime from the LSU vs. USC matchup:

• Total yards: LSU 237, USC 207
• Passing yards: LSU 191, USC 176
• Rushing yards: LSU 46, USC 31
• First downs: LSU 14, USC 10
• Penalties-yards: LSU 5-45, USC 1-15

A look at the quarterback statistics at halftime:

• Garrett Nussmeier: 20-of-24, 191 yards, 1 touchdown
• Miller Moss: 13-of-16, 176 yards

Missed FG by Michael Lantz keeps USC-LSU tied at 10-10 at halftime

USC kicker Michael Lantz missed a 29-yard field goal attempt that would have given USC a 13-10 lead at halftime. The pivotal play that set up this kick was a 22-yard pass from Miller Moss to Lake McRee.

LSU equalizes at 10-10 with 45-yard field goal

Unable to convert on a third-and-10, LSU sends out their field goal team. Aeron Burrell successfully kicks a 45-yard field goal to tie the game at 10-10 with just 1:08 remaining before halftime.

USC takes a 10-7 lead with a field goal

LSU cornerback Ashton Stamps prevents a touchdown by breaking up a pass from Miller Moss that was nearly caught by a USC receiver. This forces the Trojans to settle for a field goal, retaking the lead 10-7.

Sack by Sai’vion Jones on Miller Moss

Sai’vion Jones exploits a gap in the defense and sacks Miller Moss, resulting in a 4-yard loss that pushes USC back to the LSU 24-yard line. They now face a second-and-goal.

Zachariah Branch almost scores on kickoff return

Trojans returner Zachariah Branch came close to scoring a touchdown on the kickoff from LSU’s Aeron Burrell. Approaching the 50-yard line, Branch stumbled and was tackled. Had he chosen to go left instead of right, he might have scored a touchdown.

Kyren Lacy penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct

Following his touchdown catch that tied the game at 7-7, LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct due to his celebratory gesture towards a USC opponent.

At this point, Lacy has five receptions for 60 yards and one touchdown.

LSU evens the score with a touchdown

Garrett Nussmeier leads the Tigers on a drive that culminates in a game-tying touchdown. The first-time starting quarterback lofted a pass into the end zone, connecting with Kyren Lacy to tie the game at 7-7. This impressive drive lasted nine plays and covered 75 yards in 3 minutes and 56 seconds.

Woody Marks puts USC on the scoreboard

USC running back Woody Marks scores the first points of the game with a 2-yard rushing touchdown. Michael Lantz successfully adds the extra point, giving USC a 7-0 lead over LSU in the second quarter. The drive lasted eight plays and covered 87 yards in 3 minutes and 49 seconds.

Kyron Hudson makes a fantastic catch for USC

Trojans wide receiver Kyron Hudson executes a remarkable catch from Miller Moss, setting up a red zone opportunity for USC during the second quarter. This impressive play resulted in a 24-yard reception.

First Quarter: LSU 0, USC 0

Pregame

LSU-USC Game Not Available on DirecTV

Unfortunately, the LSU vs. USC game cannot be viewed by DirecTV subscribers due to a blackout. However, you can watch it live on ESPN+ via this link. Click here for more information about the blackout.

Jayden Daniels, No. 2 Draft Pick, at LSU-USC Game

Former LSU Heisman Trophy winner and second overall draft pick Jayden Daniels is present for this highly-anticipated top-25 clash.

Will Campbell of LSU Pays Tribute to Deceased Cousin

LSU shared a photo on X (formerly Twitter) showing standout offensive lineman Will Campbell wearing a special shirt during warmups in Las Vegas. This is his way of remembering his cousin, Tarver Braddock, who passed away in January of this year.

Arrival of Coach Brian Kelly

LSU head coach Brian Kelly has made his way to the stadium for the opening match against USC. In his two seasons in Baton Rouge, Kelly has a record of 20-7 and has led the Tigers to consecutive bowl games.

Chris Hilton of LSU Not Participating in Warmups

Cory Diaz of The Advertiser reports that LSU wide receiver Chris Hilton (who has a bone bruise) is not expected to play in today’s game against USC. He has been spotted on the field but is dressed in civilian clothing. This is a significant setback for the Tigers’ offense.

Changes to LSU’s Depth Chart

Cory Diaz from The Advertiser indicates some notable updates to the Tigers’ depth chart, with Chris Hilton listed as X. Ahmad Breaux is positioned behind Jacobian Guillory at DT, while Javien Toviano is listed behind Major Burns at the star position.

USC Names Captains for LSU Game

USC has announced its captains for today’s matchup against LSU: QB Miller Moss, WR Kyron Hudson, C Jonah Monheim, LB Easton Mascarenas-Arnold, and S Akili Arnold.

QB Miller Moss of USC Arrives

USC quarterback Miller Moss is at the stadium. So far, he has only made one start in 18 collegiate games. He had an impressive six-touchdown outing during his sole start in the 2023 Holiday Bowl.

Less Than Three Hours Until LSU-USC Kickoff

Here’s a look at the field in Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, for the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic. The Tigers and Trojans’ match is the third top-25 clash of Week 1, following No. 1 Georgia against No. 14 Clemson and No. 7 Notre Dame against No. 20 Texas A&M.

USC Releases Hype Video

Earlier today, USC shared a hype video that has garnered positive feedback across social media platforms from college football fans.

“College GameDay” Predictions for LSU vs USC

Here’s what the ESPN “College GameDay” team and special guest Johnny Manziel predict for tonight’s game:

• Desmond Howard: LSU
• Lee Corso: LSU
• Pat McAfee: USC
• Nick Saban: LSU
• Johnny Manziel: LSU
• Kirk Herbstreit: Did not pick (calling the game)

LSU vs. USC Game Details

• Date: Sunday, September 1
• Time: 7:30 PM ET
• Location: Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas)

The Tigers and Trojans will kick off at 7:30 PM ET inside Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Sunday, September 1.

Where to Watch LSU vs. USC Today

• TV Channel: ABC
• Streaming: ESPN+ | Fubo (free trial)

The game featuring LSU and USC will be shown live on ABC. The commentary team from Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium includes “College GameDay” host Rece Davis (play-by-play), analyst Kirk Herbstreit, and sideline reporter Holly Rowe.

You can also stream the game via ESPN+, or on Fubo, which offers ABC and the ESPN networks, featuring a free trial for eligible users.

Historical Overview of LSU vs. USC

• Series Record: Tied, 1-1
• LSU’s Last Victory: 1984 (23-3)
• USC’s Last Victory: 1979 (17-12)

Predictions for LSU vs. USC

Cory Diaz, The Lafayette Daily Advertiser: LSU 28, USC 24

“Expect a rough opening game for LSU. Both teams are integrating new quarterbacks, leading to some interceptions, but I believe Nussmeier will steer the Tigers to a late game-winning score.”

Bill Bender, The Sporting News: LSU 35, USC 28

“This will be a showdown between two struggling defenses. LSU is seeking to avoid a five-year streak of losses in season openers. Although the Trojans have a somewhat local advantage here, Lincoln Riley can showcase the effectiveness of his defensive coordinator, D’Anton Lynn. This is their first meeting with an SEC team since a 52-6 loss to Alabama on September 3, 2016, a game infamous for USC’s disastrous entrance. Garrett Nussmeier will come through for the Tigers in a thrilling contest that Brian Kelly is becoming accustomed to.”

LSU vs. USC Betting Information

BetMGM odds updated as of Sunday, September 1

• Spread: LSU -4
• Over/Under: 66.5
• Money Line: LSU (-185) | USC (+150)

Injury Updates for LSU vs. USC

• LSU: WR Chris Hilton (Questionable) and OL Miles Frazier (Probable)
• USC: N/A

Weather Conditions for LSU vs. USC

According to The Weather Channel, Las Vegas will experience sunny weather with temperatures reaching 103 degrees Fahrenheit on Sunday. Winds will be light at 6 mph from the southeast, and there is no chance of rain.

Important: Allegiant Stadium has a closed dome.

LSU Football Schedule for 2024

Below is the complete schedule for the Tigers in 2024, with details on start times and available TV channels:

All times are listed in Eastern Time.

• Sunday, Sept. 1: vs. No. 23 USC (Las Vegas) | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo) and ESPN+
• Saturday, Sept. 7: vs. Nicholls | 7:30 p.m. | SEC Network+ (ESPN+)
• Saturday, Sept. 14: at South Carolina * | Noon | ABC (Fubo) and ESPN+
• Saturday, Sept. 21: vs. UCLA
• Saturday, Sept. 28: vs. South Alabama | 7:45 p.m. | SEC Network (Fubo)
• Saturday, Oct. 5: BYE
• Saturday, Oct. 12: vs. No. 6 Ole Miss *
• Saturday, Oct. 19: at Arkansas *
• Saturday, Oct. 26: at No. 20 Texas A&M *
• Saturday, Nov. 2: BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 9: vs. No. 5 Alabama *
• Saturday, Nov. 16: at Florida *
• Saturday, Nov. 23: vs. Vanderbilt *
• Friday, Nov. 29: vs. No. 16 Oklahoma *

* Indicates an SEC game

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USC Football Schedule for 2024

Here is the complete Trojans’ schedule for 2024, with start times and TV channel information included:

All times are in Eastern Time.

• Sunday, Sept. 1: vs. No. 12 LSU (Las Vegas) | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo) and ESPN+
• Saturday, Sept. 7: vs. Utah State | 11 p.m. | Big Ten Network (Fubo)
• Saturday, Sept. 14: BYE
• Saturday, Sept. 21: at No. 8 Michigan * | 3:30 p.m. | CBS (Fubo) and Paramount+
• Saturday, Sept. 28: vs. Wisconsin *
• Saturday, Oct. 5: at Minnesota *
• Saturday, Oct. 12: vs. No. 9 Penn State *
• Saturday, Oct. 19: at Maryland *
• Saturday, Oct. 25: vs. Rutgers * | 11 p.m. | Fox (Fubo)
• Saturday, Nov. 2: at Washington *
• Saturday, Nov. 9: BYE
• Saturday, Nov. 16: vs. Nebraska *
• Saturday, Nov. 23: at UCLA *
• Saturday, Nov. 30: vs. No. 7 Notre Dame

* Indicates a Big Ten game

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