Penn StateRecap
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Under the bright lights of a high-stakes game, the #10 Penn State Nittany Lions edged past the #11 USC Trojans in a heart-stopping 37-34 victory during Week 2 of the CFSL. The Trojan fans, filled with anticipation, experienced a rollercoaster of emotions as their team fought valiantly but fell just short in a game that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns.
The first quarter set the stage for a nail-biting contest. Boom Hauer for Penn State and Preston Legg for USC exchanged field goals, bringing a tense start. The quarter wrapped up with Sean Keohane connecting with Demelo Washington for an 18-yard touchdown, giving Penn State an early lead.
As the second quarter unfolded, USC’s offense, led by quarterback Kolten Powell, began to find its rhythm. Powell connected with Skye Mills and Brandon Oliver for touchdowns, showcasing his precision and poise. However, Penn State kept the pressure with Kirby Sierra’s 1-yard touchdown run and another touchdown from the Keohane-Washington duo, keeping the game tightly contested.
Moving into the third quarter, USC took a brief lead with Powell’s touchdown pass to Jamarcus Simpson III. Yet, the resilient Nittany Lions struck back with a stunning 48-yard touchdown pass from Keohane to Washington, setting up a thrilling final quarter.
The fourth quarter was a testament to both teams’ grit and determination. With back-and-forth scoring, including field goals and touchdowns by both teams, the game’s outcome hung in the balance until the final moments. The deciding moment came with no time left, as Boom Hauer calmly slotted a 17-yard field goal, clinching a memorable victory for Penn State.
Both teams exhibited remarkable offensive prowess. Penn State amassed an impressive 540 yards of total offense, with Sean Keohane throwing for 413 yards and three touchdowns. USC’s Kolten Powell countered with 324 passing yards and three touchdowns himself. The game was an offensive spectacle, with both teams demonstrating why they are considered among the elite in college football.
In the end, it was Penn State who emerged victorious, claiming a hard-fought win in a game that exemplified the spirit and excitement of college football. The Trojan fans, while disappointed, could take pride in their team’s valiant effort in a game that will be etched in the memories of all who witnessed it.
