The No. 2 Buckeyes fell 30-18 to USC on Saturday night in Los Angeles, dropping to 6-2 on the season. Despite outgaining the Trojans 464-338, Ohio State couldn’t overcome costly mistakes, missed opportunities in the red zone, and USC’s ability to generate explosive plays.
There were some encouraging individual performances, though. Making his first career start, freshman quarterback Luke Fahey completed 21 of 38 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception. Bo Jackson added 121 rushing yards, while Jeremiah Smith caught 10 passes for 83 yards and a touchdown, setting the Big Ten career record with his 40th touchdown reception.