Spartans Show Fight but Fall at USC 45-31

USC has dealt Michigan State its first loss of the season on the road, defeating the Spartans 45-31 in a high-scoring game. The Trojans jumped out early, but the Spartans showed fight throughout the game.

First Half: Spartans Answer Early

USC chose to receive the ball first and opened the game with a 25-yard field goal by Ryon Sayeri. Michigan State's quarterback, Aidan Chiles, responded by connecting with Chrishon McCray on a 42-yard touchdown pass, putting MSU ahead 7-4. The Trojans struck back when running back Jayden Maiva punched in a 15-yard touchdown run to regain the lead.

READ MORE: Spartans’ Last-Second Stunner Named One of NCAA’s Greatest Games 

USC had kept the pressure on in the second quarter, going on a drive that ended with a touchdown pass from Maiva to Makai Lemon, making it 17-7. Michigan State responded, with Connington delivering a 29-yard field goal to shrink the lead to 17-10.

USC Builds Lead Before Break

USC had added another touchdown by halftime, giving the Trojans a 24-10 edge at the break.

Spartans Close Gap in Third Quarter

The second half saw more offense from both sides. USC extended their lead early in the third quarter, pushing through another Maiva touchdown pas, this time to Walker Lyons, pushing the score 31-10. MSU would not go away, though. Chiles himself scored a four-yard touchdown, then later threw a one-yard score to Jack Velling as MSU started closing in, pulling to within seven points at 31-24.

Late Push Not Enough

In the fourth quarter, USC built back up its margin with a 7-plus minute drive, ending in a five-yard touchdown run by Makai Lemon. This was followed by a one-yard Maiava rush for another touchdown.

Michigan State added a big play late when Chiles connected with Omari Kelly for a 75-yard touchdown, but that wasn't enough for the team.

What’s Next for MSU

Michigan State has a bye week next week; their next game is on October 4, on the road to Nebraska.