USC Defeats Ohio State in Upset at LA Memorial Coliseum
USC secured a 30-18 upset victory over No. 2 Ohio State on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2026, at LA Memorial Coliseum, marking coach Lincoln Riley’s first win against a top-five ranked team since 2017. Seven days after a 27-7 loss to Wisconsin, the Trojans rebounded to improve to 7-2 on the season, positioning the program back into potential College Football Playoff contention.
Ohio State played without starting quarterback Julian Sayin, who remained out indefinitely following a throwing arm injury sustained during a win against Indiana on Oct. 17. True freshman Luke Fahey stepped in for the Buckeyes, completing 21-of-38 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown in the loss.
Jayden Maiava and the Trojans Offense Outpace the Buckeyes
USC utilized a balanced offensive attack to dismantle the Buckeyes defense. Quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 15 of 22 passes for 222 yards and one interception, while the Trojans ground game added 116 rushing yards and two scores across 27 carries.
Head coach Lincoln Riley joins Kathryn Tappen after USC’s takedown of No. 2 Ohio State. pic.twitter.com/yYQfKcJwp1
Following the final whistle, fans rushed the field and tore down the goalposts at the Coliseum to celebrate the program’s biggest win under Riley. The victory provided relief for a fanbase experiencing growing frustrations following recent struggles against higher-end opponents.
Big Ten Policy and Discretionary Fines for Field Storming
The post-game celebration raised questions regarding potential penalties from the conference. Unlike other Power Four conferences, the Big Ten does not enforce an escalating fine system for field-storming incidents.
“We have a game management policy in place that host institutions must provide adequate security and protection for the visiting team and officials immediately upon arrival on campus continuing through their departure,” the Big Ten stated to USA TODAY Sports earlier this season. “If that policy is violated, there are levels of punishment including a discretionary fine.”
Remaining Schedule and College Football Playoff Path
USC faces a closing stretch to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff. The Trojans’ remaining schedule includes matchups against No. 4 Indiana, Maryland, and No. 7 UCLA.
USC could potentially reach the CFP with a 2-1 record in those games.
Frequently Asked Questions About the USC Upset
What was Julian Sayin’s injury status for the game?
Julian Sayin sat out the matchup after suffering an injury to his throwing arm during Ohio State’s win against Indiana on Oct. 17, leaving him sidelined indefinitely.
How did Lincoln Riley’s previous record against top-five teams stand?
Prior to Saturday, Lincoln Riley’s last win against a top-five opponent came in 2017 when he was with Oklahoma, coincidentally also against Ohio State.
What are USC’s remaining games on the schedule?
USC closes its schedule with games against No. 4 Indiana, Maryland, and No. 7 UCLA.
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