In a closely contested game, USC head coach Lincoln Riley led the Trojans to a 27-20 victory over No. 13 LSU, showcasing a strong performance from quarterback Miller Moss. Riley expressed pride in his team's resilience despite missed opportunities, highlighting the significant improvements made in the offseason. Conversely, LSU head coach Brian Kelly voiced frustration with his team's offense, particularly their struggles in scoring situations and the performance of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who he felt was outplayed by Moss. Nussmeier threw for 304 yards and two touchdowns but faced criticism for not capitalizing on key moments. The game illustrated the importance of both offensive and defensive strategies, as both teams adapted to their new coordinators. Ultimately, USC's execution in critical moments secured them the win, leaving LSU to reassess as they move forward in the season.