Kalel Mullings and the Michigan Wolverines triumphed over the USC Trojans with a score of 27-24, reclaiming the lead in the fourth quarter on their final drive.
Mullings had a standout performance, achieving career highs in carries with 17 and rushing yards with 159, while also matching his career best with two touchdowns.
This matchup saw USC (2-1) ranked No. 12 in the latest US LBM Coaches Poll, while Michigan (3-1) stood at No. 17.
After coming off a bye week, USC’s quarterback Miller Moss struggled in the first half but managed to rally the team for a strong second half, keeping the game competitive. The Wolverines, fresh off a 28-18 win against Arkansas State, aimed to bounce back from a previous loss to No. 2 Texas.
Following a mid-week announcement, coach Sherrone Moore named Alex Orji the starting quarterback for Michigan. Orji completed seven of 12 passes for 32 yards and contributed significantly with 15 carries for 43 yards.
In a thrilling finish, Michigan’s defense held strong, preventing USC from entering field goal range, which secured the victory in front of a home crowd.
Mullings put Michigan ahead with a crucial short-yardage touchdown run, culminating a 10-play, 89-yard drive and putting the Wolverines in the lead with just 37 seconds left in the game.
Earlier, the Trojans had taken the lead in the fourth quarter after Moss connected with Ja’Kobi Lane for a 24-yard touchdown following a fumble by Michigan’s running back Donovan Edwards. This turnover occurred on the Michigan 18-yard line, putting USC ahead 24-20 with 7:06 left.
The Wolverines’ defense faced an injury concern when cornerback Will Johnson was seen heading towards the locker room, raising questions about his condition.
Later in the game, after a dramatic double-fumble play, Moss successfully passed to Jay Fair for a 16-yard touchdown, narrowing the score to 20-17 as USC continued to fight back.
Meanwhile, Johnson made a significant impact for Michigan, setting a new team record for the most career pick-sixes while returning an interception for a touchdown in the third quarter.
Injuries also plagued both teams, with USC tight end Lake McRee appearing distraught on the sideline after a play, and Michigan quarterback Alex Orji receiving attention for his taped right hand.
The game began with both teams showcasing robust defensive strategies, but Michigan took the lead with a 53-yard touchdown run from Mullings, demonstrating the effectiveness of their game plan early on.
Despite USC’s attempts to regain momentum, Michigan maintained control, leading 14-3 at halftime after a dominant rushing performance that saw them outgain USC significantly.
As the match unfolded, the Wolverines honored Greg Harden, a former life coach and motivational speaker, in memory of his contributions to the Michigan community.
In addition, in a tense moment during the first quarter, USC receiver Makai Lemon was transported to a nearby hospital following an injury.
The matchup not only marked an important game for both teams but also highlighted the ongoing evolution of their rosters as they navigated the season’s challenges.