Trojans Topple Third-Ranked Utah; Post-Game Reaction
The USC Football team upset the No. 3 University of Utah 42-24 on Saturday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Trojans dominated on the defensive end with four interceptions, led by true freshman Cameron Smith who had three interceptions, one returned for a 54-yard touchdown. On the offensive side, Ronald Jones II, Soma Vainuku and Justin Davis all rushed for scores to help the Trojans snap their two game losing streak. With this win USC continues its' dominance over Utah at home, keeping them winless at the Coliseum since 1916.
After the game head coach Clay Helton spoke to the press alongside linebacker Cameron Smith and captain Cody Kessler. Helton detailed the team's surge of momentum throughout the game, crediting the players with not losing their pace and continuing their drive throughout the second half. "I told them at halftime, 'Do you enjoy this taste in your mouth right now...If you wanna continue it then finish the game,'" Helton said. Kessler and Smith echoed his praise for the Trojan's drive and energy specifically against such a highly ranked opponent. Kessler had high praise for the freshman linebacker whose interceptions he said played a huge role in the ultimate outcome. "What Cam did tonight really won us the game," he said.
With this win the Trojans advance to 4-3 on the season. Next up the Trojans will be on the road as they head north for "The Weekender." The Men of Troy will face the No. 20 University of of California, Berkley at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, October 30 at 12:00 p.m.