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Walk-On Warrior: USC's Unlikely Hero Sparks Upset Over Ranked Foe
12 Oct
Summary
- Backup RB King Miller shines with 148 yards rushing in USC's win over Michigan
- USC defense bounces back after Illinois loss, stifles Michigan's offense
- Trojans overcome injuries to top running backs and offensive linemen
On October 12, 2025, the USC Trojans pulled off a statement-making 31-13 upset over the No. 15 Michigan Wolverines. The victory came despite a battered Trojans backfield, as both of USC's top two running backs had already been carted off the field by the time walk-on redshirt freshman King Miller took the stage.
Miller, who was buried on the depth chart just weeks earlier, seized his opportunity and delivered a breakout performance. After USC's leading rusher Waymond Jordan went down in the second quarter, Miller stepped up, ripping off 148 yards on 16 carries, including a game-changing 47-yard scamper that set up a touchdown.
The Trojans' defense also bounced back in a big way, holding Michigan's standout freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood to just 207 passing yards and stifling the Wolverines' usually potent rushing attack. It was a stark contrast to USC's disastrous loss to Illinois two weeks prior.
The win was a much-needed boost for USC and head coach Lincoln Riley, who had struggled against ranked opponents prior to Saturday's triumph. With their season hanging in the balance, the Trojans proved they could overcome adversity and deliver a statement victory over a highly ranked foe.
