In a wild game that featured over 400 return yards — on interceptions, kicks, punts and even a blocked field goal — it came down to the kicking game for the Arizona State Sun Devils and USC Trojans. After ASU took the lead midway through the fourth quarter, the Trojans returned a blocked the extra point, turning what would’ve been a five-point deficit into a two point deficit. It allowed the Trojans to take a two-point lead with a field goal on the ensuing possession in what turned out to be the final margin. ASU kicker Thomas Weber missed a 39-yard field goal with under two minutes left in the game, giving USC a 34-33 win.
Matt Barkley threw for 215 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Dillon Baxter started the game for the Trojans, but Marc Tyler was the more effective back, rushing for 119 yards on 12 carries. Tyler appeared to suffer a leg injury late in the fourth quarter and had to be helped off the field. Brice Butler caught three passes for 59 yards.
The Sun Devils used quick routes to move the chains for most of the game. Steven Threet completed passes for 228 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. Cameron Marshall added 56 yards on the ground and T.J. Simpson caught eight passes for 95 yards.
The Sun Devils fall to 4-5 while the Trojans improve to 6-3. USC heads to Arizona to take on the Wildcats next week. ASU hosts the 8-1 Stanford Cardinal.