The Trojans' third-string quarterback, Sam Huard, wore punter Sam Johnson's number on a fake punt to fool the Northwestern defense.

USC football executed a brilliant fake punt deception against Northwestern, with quarterback Sam Huard disguised as punter Sam Johnson to complete a crucial pass.

The Northwestern Wildcats put up an early fight. However, the team couldn’t keep pace with the No. 20 USC Trojans. They fell 38–17 on Friday night at the Los An

Jayden Maiava forced a fumble after tossing an interception, a play that inspired the Trojans to pull away from Northwestern during a 38-17 win Friday.

No. 20 Southern California stayed in the College Football Playoff race with a 38-17 victory over Northwestern.

The No. 19 USC Trojans took down the Northwestern Wildcats on Friday night, 38-17. USC Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava made a key play, demonstrating why players have to continue to push through every play until the end.

What did we learn from watching the Trojans take down Northwestern on Friday night? Here are five key takeaways:

Jayden Maiava passes for 299 yards and accounts for three touchdowns (one rushing), Makai Lemon has a TD catch and a scoring run, and the Trojans pull away for a 38-17 win to stay in the hunt for

Get the best Northwestern vs. USC predictions, expert picks, and odds for their College Football game on Friday, November 7. Caleb Komolafe will keep the Wildcats close.

The Trojans' defense, after giving up 14 points early, held Northwestern to just 3 points in the second half. The defense played its part in this game and ensured it would not allow Northwestern to make up any ground. Preston Stone played better than expected, but once USC's offense got ahead, he and the Wildcats could not respond.

The USC Trojans defeated the Northwestern Wildcats, 38-17, at the LA Memorial Coliseum on November 7, 2025 and The Sporting Tribune's Jordan Teller was there to capture the following TST Images.