UPDATE: In a devastating blow for the USC Trojans, the team suffered a 34-24 loss to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish during a rain-soaked showdown on October 14, 2023, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana. This defeat puts USC’s hopes for a College Football Playoff bid in jeopardy.
Dark clouds loomed over the iconic Touchdown Jesus as the heavy downpour reflected the tense atmosphere surrounding this historic rivalry, which may be nearing its end. Both teams have expressed a desire to continue the series, but uncertainty remains about future matchups.
The game took a pivotal turn in the fourth quarter. After Notre Dame missed a 31-yard field goal, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava connected with wide receiver Makai Lemon for a crucial 42-yard gain, shifting momentum in favor of the Trojans. However, head coach Lincoln Riley‘s decision to execute a trick play backfired spectacularly.
As Lemon attempted to throw, he was quickly surrounded by the Notre Dame defense and lost possession of the ball. This costly turnover allowed Notre Dame to capitalize, with quarterback C.J. Carr rushing for a one-yard touchdown on the ensuing drive, effectively sealing the game.
This loss marks a significant setback for USC, who now faces an uphill battle to secure a place in the College Football Playoff. With only a few weeks remaining in the season, every game counts. Fans are left questioning if this will be the last chapter in the storied rivalry between these two college football powerhouses.
Looking ahead, USC must regroup and refocus as they prepare for their upcoming matches, where they need to demonstrate resilience and determination to keep their playoff hopes alive. The urgency is palpable as the Trojans face a critical juncture in their season.
As the rain continues to pour, the outcome of this game serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of college football and the emotional weight carried by both teams and their supporters. The question now looms: can USC bounce back, or has this loss marked a turning point in the rivalry?
