#5 Notre Dame(10-1) secured a decisive victory over USC in a high-scoring matchup, showcasing dominance on both sides of the ball. The Irish were powered by an explosive rushing attack, accumulating 258 yards on the ground, led by Jadarian Price (111 yards, 1 TD) and Jeremiyah Love (99 yards, 1 TD). Riley Leonard contributed with two passing touchdowns and a rushing score to guide the offense.
Defensively, the Irish capitalized on turnovers, including two interception returns for touchdowns—highlighted by Xavier Watts' 100-yard pick-six—that swung momentum decisively in their favor.
USC's Jayden Maiava threw for 360 yards and 3 TDs, but costly mistakes and missed opportunities, including 0-3 on fourth downs, limited their comeback efforts.
Notre Dame's balance and efficiency on both offense and defense proved too much for the Trojans, sealing the 49-35 victory.
The game was physical as both Notre Dame and USC suffered key injuries – USC’s Woody Marks left the game early with an injury, while Jeremiyah Love, after rushing for 99-yards, left with a knee injury.
Notre Dame has now won 10 straight games and finishes the season at 11-1.
Notre Dame has guaranteed themselves a spot in the College Football Playoff and will host a playoff game in South Bend either Friday, December 20th or Saturday, December 21st at Notre Dame Stadium.