Notre Dame vs. USC: Third-Quarter Analysis
If Notre Dame wins this game, it can thank USC for not taking advantage of numerous opportunities. There were stretches in which both teams looked impressive in the third quarter. Even so, this game should be much closer than it is. Instead, the Irish have a 24-3 lead.
The Trojans got the ball to begin the second half and really were in business after Kedon Slovis’ 30-yard pass to Malcolm Epps. The ball now was at the Irish’s 25-yard line, and that’s where it would stay. The Trojans nearly caught a break when D.J. Brown, subbing for the injured Kyle Hamilton, was flagged for targeting and then vindicated by the obligatory replay review. Parker Lewis promptly missed a 42-yard field goal, so both kickers have had their moments of shame now.
After the teams traded punts, it was the Irish’s turn to have a lengthy drive. Kyren Williams put the offense in business with a 38-yard run to the Trojans’ 26. The run continued to be the Irish’s weapon of choice for the rest of the possession, and it paid off. Aided by some Trojans penalties, the Irish added onto their lead with Williams needing only a single yard for his second touchdown of the game.
The Trojans had the quarter’s final possession and used a combination of runs and passes to get into Irish territory quickly. By the time the clock hit zero, they were right on the cusp of scoring their first touchdown. Stay tuned to see if it happens.
