LAS VEGAS, Nev. (BCSNN) — The 2024 SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl at Allegiant Stadium was a thrilling contest between the USC Trojans and the Texas A&M Aggies, with the Trojans emerging victorious 35-31.
Game Summary
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with Texas A&M taking a 17-point lead in the third quarter before USC mounted a comeback. The Aggies scored 17 consecutive points in the third quarter, but USC responded with 21 straight points to take the lead in the fourth quarter.
Offensive Standouts
For the USC Trojans, quarterback Jayden Maiava was the star of the game, finishing with 295 passing yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions. His go-ahead 7-yard touchdown pass to tight end Kyle Ford with eight seconds left sealed the victory. Ja’Kobi Lane was Maiava's favorite target, catching seven passes for 127 yards and three touchdowns.
On the Texas A&M Aggies side, quarterback Marcel Reed put up a valiant effort, completing 26 of 42 passes for 257 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. Reed also contributed on the ground with 46 rushing yards on nine attempts. Noah Thomas was instrumental in the passing game, finishing with five receptions for 29 yards and two touchdowns.
Defensive Standouts
Defensively, USC's linebacker Chris Steele made a significant impact, recording 10 tackles, one sack, and a forced fumble. His pressure on Reed was crucial in the final drive of the game.
For Texas A&M, defensive end McKinnley Jackson stood out with eight tackles, two sacks, and a forced fumble. His presence in the backfield disrupted USC's offensive rhythm throughout the game.
Final Thoughts
USC head coach Lincoln Riley praised his team's resilience, saying, "It's the perfect ending. You're down 14-0, I think it kind of symbolizes everything that these guys have been through, especially the seniors, symbolizes how things started. Things looked bleak, things weren't going great, adversity and they kept scratching and clawing and fighting."
The victory marks USC's first bowl win since 2022, while Texas A&M finishes the season with an 8-5 record under first-year head coach Mike Elko.
