The nation’s most electric returner looked up to the sky as a second-quarter Wisconsin punt came hurtling in his direction. Zachariah Branch had fielded so many kicks just like it. But as this one drew closer and a decision drew near, for just a split-second the USC sophomore hesitated.
It was just long enough for disaster to strike. The ball, which careened off Branch’s outstretched arms, was corralled by Wisconsin. And with it, any hope of a smooth, bounce-back spot for USC in its Big Ten home opener bounced away.
What USC got instead was a confusing afternoon the Trojans and their coach would probably prefer to move past quickly, one filled with an equal mix of frustrating missteps, sloppy execution and second-half resolve. USC still managed to walk away with a 38-21 victory over Wisconsin, but it certainly didn’t seem that satisfying along the way. Bouncing back after last week’s back-breaking loss to Michigan would require another masterful run of halftime adjustments from USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, whose defense allowed Wisconsin just 82 total yards in the second half.
It also meant a steely comeback effort from quarterback Miller Moss, who turned around a sloppy start to lead three consecutive touchdown drives in the third and fourth quarters, even running the last one in himself. Moss finished with 308 yards and three passing touchdowns and another on the ground. Though, he’d pay for that final score, hitting the ground hard as he crossed the .