TCU overcame a fourth-quarter deficit to defeat No. 16 Southern California 30-27 in a thrilling overtime finish at the Alamo Bowl on Tuesday night.
Quarterback Ken Seals threw for 258 yards and delivered the decisive touchdown in overtime, showcasing his leadership as he concluded his collegiate career as a sixth-year senior.
After a challenging sequence that saw him sacked for a 10-yard loss, Seals faced a daunting third-and-20 from the 35-yard line. He managed to connect with running back Jeremy Payne on a short pass in the left flat. Payne made an impressive play, evading four defenders before sprinting down the sideline to score the winning touchdown.
Seals” performance earned him the Offensive MVP title for the game. In addition to his receiving efforts, Payne also contributed significantly on the ground, rushing for 73 yards and another touchdown on 13 carries.
In a dramatic finish to regulation, Seals spearheaded a 13-play, 59-yard drive that culminated in a 27-yard field goal by Kyle Lemmermann, forcing the game into overtime. This marked only the fourth overtime in the bowl”s 33-year history.
In the overtime period, USC managed to score first with a field goal, but the Horned Frogs responded with the decisive touchdown. Despite a pass-interference penalty that allowed the Trojans to advance to the 2-yard line, TCU”s defense held firm, limiting them to just three points.
USC”s junior quarterback Jayden Maiava completed 280 yards and one touchdown but also faced challenges, throwing two interceptions during the game. A crucial interception by Christian Pierce thwarted a promising USC drive early in the second half.
One of the highlights for USC came from wide receiver Jaden Richardson, who made an impressive one-handed catch for a touchdown late in the third quarter, helping the Trojans take a 21-14 lead. Following this, Taniela Tupou”s two-point conversion further extended their advantage.
In the first half, TCU had taken a brief lead at 14-13 with two rushing touchdowns, including a 5-yard run by Jon Denman and a 1-yard plunge by Seals.
With this loss, USC failed to reach the 10-win mark for the third consecutive season. For TCU, the victory was a significant achievement as they prepare for the future, with changes on the horizon including the departure of offensive coordinator Kendal Briles and players entering the transfer portal.
Next season, USC is set to host Fresno State on September 5, potentially marking the start of Maiava”s campaign for the Heisman Trophy. Meanwhile, TCU will open their season against North Carolina on August 29 in Dublin, Ireland.
