MADISON, Wis. — The USC Trojans suffered a disappointing 24-7 defeat to the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday night, exposing ongoing struggles on offense and special teams as the Trojans prepare for a challenging stretch in their schedule. The loss marked a setback for USC (6-2, 3-2), whose hopes of building momentum after a recent bye week and a spirited performance two weeks prior now appear diminished.

Quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 31 of 50 passes for 258 yards, throwing one touchdown but also two interceptions. Despite the volume of passing attempts, the Trojans failed to convert key opportunities, with Maiava’s interceptions fueling Wisconsin’s scoring drives. The rushing game was largely ineffective, totaling just minus-17 yards for the game. Freshman Shahn Alston led the ground attack with 28 yards, while starter King Miller was largely contained, unable to find significant running room.

USC’s defense started strong, limiting the Badgers (5-2, 3-1) to just eight yards in the first quarter and holding Wisconsin to 78 yards in the first half, including only 58 passing yards. The defense exerted early pressure on Wisconsin quarterback Colton Joseph, disrupting the Badgers’ rhythm. However, as the game progressed, the defense’s efforts were undermined by the Trojans’ offensive struggles and special teams errors.

Wisconsin capitalized on turnovers and penalties to build its lead. After Maiava’s first interception was returned to the red zone, the Badgers settled for a field goal. USC managed to respond with a touchdown early in the second quarter, aided by three Wisconsin penalties that extended the drive. Tight end Taniela Tupou caught a one-yard touchdown pass, giving USC a brief 7-3 lead.

However, Wisconsin answered with two consecutive scoring drives, including a touchdown just before halftime and another to open the third quarter, shifting momentum firmly in the home team’s favor. Key mistakes by USC—such as a third-down intentional grounding penalty and a blocked field goal attempt—hampered any comeback efforts. The Trojans also faced additional setbacks, including a delay of game penalty that pushed back a subsequent field goal try.

In the fourth quarter, USC attempted a 58-yard field goal in rainy conditions reminiscent of a similar late-season game two weeks earlier, but kicker Caden Chittenden’s attempt fell short. The Trojans’ offensive woes persisted throughout, unable to generate meaningful drives or scoring chances.

The loss leaves USC facing questions about its offensive cohesion and special teams reliability as it moves deeper into the season. Wisconsin, meanwhile, improved to 5-2 overall and 3-1 in conference play, taking advantage of turnover opportunities despite a limited yardage output.