In 1978, the USC Trojans and Arizona State Sun Devils joined the Pac-10 conference, expanding it from the Pac-8. However, ASU did not show any interest in playing nice with USC. That year, they defeated the Trojans, preventing them from being crowned as national champions as they ended up sharing the title with Alabama.
Despite facing adversity throughout their history against Arizona State, USC has always shown a remarkable level of toughness and resilience. In October 2005, for example, USC’s quarterback Matt Leinart suffered a head injury before concussion protocols were standard practice. Despite being down by 18 points at halftime and facing extreme heat in the desert, USC mounted a comeback in the second half. Their dominant offensive line and ballhawking defense led to a decisive 35-7 victory over the Sun Devils.
This victory was a defining moment for USC under head coach Pete Carroll and demonstrated their ability to overcome adversity to secure a win against all odds. For more college football content and NFL draft coverage, visit our friends at Fighting Irish Wire, Buffaloes Wire, Ducks Wire, UW Huskies Wire, UCLA Wire, and USA TODAY Sports NFL Draft Hub.