TCU completed a remarkable comeback to defeat No. 16 Southern California 30-27 in overtime during the Alamo Bowl on Tuesday night in San Antonio. Quarterback Ken Seals threw for 258 yards and delivered the decisive touchdown in the extra period.
Facing a challenging third-and-20 from the 35-yard line after a 10-yard sack, Seals connected with running back Jeremy Payne. The pass was a short throw to the left flat, and Payne showcased his agility by evading four defenders and sprinting down the sideline for a touchdown.
Seals, a sixth-year senior concluding his college career, earned the Offensive MVP honor for guiding his hometown team to victory. Payne contributed significantly, recording six receptions for 50 yards along with a rushing performance of 73 yards and a touchdown on 13 carries.
In a tense finish to regulation, Seals orchestrated a 13-play, 59-yard drive that culminated in a 27-yard field goal by Kyle Lemmermann, which tied the game as time expired. This marked the fourth overtime contest in the bowl”s 33-year history.
During overtime, TCU”s defense limited USC to just a field goal, despite a pass-interference penalty in the end zone that granted the Trojans a first down at the 2-yard line. USC”s junior quarterback Jayden Maiava had a commendable performance, passing for 280 yards and a touchdown but also threw two costly interceptions.
USC”s scoring was highlighted by a spectacular one-handed catch from Jaden Richardson, who secured a 21-yard touchdown reception from Maiava with just 49 seconds left in the third quarter. Richardson managed to tap his right foot inbounds as he fell backward, showcasing his impressive skills. Following this, Taniela Tupou converted a two-point attempt, extending USC”s lead to 21-14.
Earlier in the game, TCU had taken a 14-13 lead, thanks to two short rushing touchdowns that capped off drives of 75 yards each. Jon Denman opened the scoring for TCU with a 5-yard run in the second quarter, followed by Seals” own 1-yard rushing touchdown nine minutes later.
For USC, this defeat marked the third consecutive season without reaching 10 wins. Meanwhile, TCU, which showcased a prolific offense throughout the season, faces a significant transition as they prepare for the next year with changes in the coaching staff and player roster. Notably, offensive coordinator Kendal Briles is heading to South Carolina, starting quarterback Josh Hoover has entered the transfer portal, and top receiver Eric McAlister is moving on to the NFL.
Looking ahead, USC is set to host Fresno State on September 5 next year, potentially marking the start of Maiava”s Heisman Trophy campaign. TCU will kick off their next season against North Carolina on August 29 in Dublin, Ireland.
