Texas A&M football faced a tough challenge on Saturday, enduring their fourth loss in five games after a narrow defeat to USC in the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl, ending with a score of 35-31.
The Aggies initially surged ahead, leading by three scores in the second half. However, a spirited fourth-quarter comeback from the Trojans, highlighted by wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane’s stellar performance — with seven receptions for 127 yards and three touchdowns — shifted the momentum in USC’s favor.
Quarterback Marcel Reed showcased resilience, recovering from two first-half interceptions to throw for 293 yards and score three touchdowns. He also made significant contributions on the ground, gaining 46 rushing yards, which included a critical 19-yard touchdown run that briefly placed the Aggies in the lead with under two minutes to go in the game.
On the other side, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 22 of 39 passes for 295 yards, contributing four touchdowns despite throwing three interceptions.
The game began with Texas A&M scoring a touchdown on their opening drive, but confusion followed as they recorded two interceptions and two punts across their next four drives. Their defense, however, managed to force three punts and secure an interception in a relatively slow-scoring first half.
By halftime, the score stood at a tie of 7-7. The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half, with Texas A&M initially extending their lead significantly. Still, USC clawed back with two consecutive touchdowns, ultimately sealing the game with a late touchdown from Kyle Ford following a dynamic drive led by Maiava.
Despite the loss, the Aggies demonstrated moments of strong play and tenacity, suggesting that there are positive takeaways for the team moving forward into the next season. The ability to respond under pressure could bode well for their future games.
Summary: Texas A&M fought hard but fell to USC in the Las Vegas Bowl, with a late-game comeback from the Trojans sealing the Aggies’ fate. Reed’s performance instilled hope for the future as the team looks ahead to the next season.