In a thrilling Week 4 matchup of the 2024 college football season, No. 18 Michigan outlasted No. 11 USC 27-24 in a dramatic conference debut for the Trojans, decided by a clutch fourth-and-goal touchdown with just 37 seconds left in the game. The Wolverines introduced the Trojans to Big Ten football with a gritty, smashmouth style that ultimately carried them to victory.
Kalel Mullings emerged as the hero, surging 2 yards for the game-winning touchdown on fourth-and-goal, capping off a crucial 10-play, 89-yard drive. Mullings, who had a career-high 159 rushing yards, did much of the heavy lifting on that final drive as Michigan (3-1, 1-0 Big Ten) fought through adversity to secure the win.
The Wolverines had built an early 14-0 lead, thanks in part to Mullings’ 53-yard touchdown run and a 41-yard burst from Donovan Edwards. But USC, led by quarterback Miller Moss, staged an impressive comeback. Moss threw for 283 yards and three touchdowns, including a 24-yard strike to Ja’Kobi Lane midway through the fourth quarter that put the Trojans (2-1, 0-1 Big Ten) ahead 24-20.
Despite losing two fumbles in the second half and surrendering their lead, Michigan showcased resilience. Their defense made key plays, highlighted by cornerback Will Johnson’s interception return for a touchdown in the third quarter, extending Michigan’s lead to double digits at the time. Moss responded with a 16-yard touchdown to Jay Fair later in the third, followed by his go-ahead pass to Lane in the fourth quarter after a critical USC takeaway deep in Michigan territory.
The win not only marked Michigan’s first-ever regular-season meeting with USC since 1958 but also extended the Wolverines’ Big Ten winning streak to a school-record 26 games. This game added another chapter to the storied rivalry between the two teams, who had previously met 10 times, eight of those in the Rose Bowl.
Michigan’s ground-and-pound attack, coupled with timely defense, secured a victory in their first conference meeting against the Trojans, leaving USC with a tough lesson in Big Ten football. The Trojans, despite the loss, showcased their offensive firepower but will need to adjust quickly as they continue their journey in their new conference.
For Michigan, this win solidifies their place as a Big Ten power, while USC will look to regroup after a close and hard-fought loss in their new conference home.
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