The Southern California Trojans dropped their record to 5-15 against ranked opponents under head coach Lincoln Riley following a 41-27 loss to Oregon on Saturday night in Los Angeles. This latest defeat further pushes the team downward, bringing their record against ranked Big Ten opponents to 2-6 over the last two seasons.
Despite Oregon playing the majority of the game without starting quarterback Dante Moore due to an injury sustained in the second quarter, USC was unable to take advantage. Oregon backup quarterback Dylan Raiola stepped up to throw for 366 passing yards. The Ducks successfully converted half of their third-down attempts and managed to convert all of their fourth-down plays.
Defensive struggles have remained a persistent issue for the Trojans down the stretch in high-pressure moments. Earlier in the season, USC allowed 35 points and 460 total yards to Rutgers in Week 3, following the offseason hiring of defensive coordinator Gary Patterson.
With this recent outcome adding to a growing list of struggles against top-tier competition, the Trojans face mounting pressure to address their defensive inconsistencies as the remainder of the season unfolds.
