USC secured a narrow 25-21 victory over Washington on Saturday, overcoming a tense and uneven performance that underscored ongoing struggles for the Trojans amid mounting criticism of head coach Lincoln Riley. The game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum unfolded against a backdrop of frustration and calls from the USC student section demanding Riley’s dismissal following a difficult week that began with a loss to Oregon.

The Trojans appeared to be on the brink of another disheartening defeat as they trailed 21-10 late in the third quarter against a Washington team depleted by injuries and relying on a fourth-string running back. However, a pivotal defensive play shifted momentum. Linebacker Elijah Newby pressured Washington quarterback Demond Williams Jr., stripping the ball shortly after a key Washington score. Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart recovered the fumble and ran it back 48 yards for the go-ahead touchdown, continuing despite a sore foot.

USC’s defense, which had been vulnerable in recent weeks against Rutgers and Oregon, showed signs of improvement for much of the game. By halftime, the Huskies had managed only 44 passing yards and were held to fewer than six yards per play through three quarters. Yet, the defense nearly faltered in the final moments of the game when Washington, previously unsuccessful on third downs, converted a deep third-and-11 and a critical fourth-and-2 on their last drive. The Huskies advanced to the USC 12-yard line before the Trojans’ defense managed to stop them and preserve the lead.

Defensive coordinator Gary Patterson called the game from the press box rather than the sidelines, a strategic adjustment that did little to quell concerns. While the defense showed resilience, the offense struggled to maintain consistency. Quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 21 of 34 passes for 245 yards, with one touchdown and one interception. Despite outgaining Washington 360 yards to 319 and controlling possession for nearly 35 minutes, USC had difficulty converting opportunities into points, settling for field goals on multiple drives.

Early in the game, USC forced Washington into consecutive three-and-outs but was unable to capitalize with more than a field goal. The Trojans’ offense was hampered by special teams miscues, including a muffed punt by wide receiver Terrell Anderson that led to poor field position. Washington took advantage, with Williams escaping pressure to convert a fourth down and scoring soon after.

USC finally responded offensively with an eight-yard rushing touchdown from Waymond Jordan, narrowing the deficit. Nevertheless, the Huskies remained competitive deep into the fourth quarter, testing USC’s resolve with a long drive aided by surprise third- and fourth-down conversions. Ultimately, the Trojans’ defense stiffened to seal the victory.

With the win, USC improved to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in Pac-12 play, while Washington fell to 3-2 and 0-2 in conference. The game highlighted ongoing challenges for USC as pressure mounts on the coaching staff amid inconsistent performances and rising calls for change.