ASU could not answer in the final 1:20 after USC went ahead with consecutive touchdowns.
The Sun Devils advanced to their 43-yard line but could get no closer following a series of incompletions that showed how much they were missing their most experienced wide receiver, Frank Darby.
No. 20 USC ran off the final 55 seconds for a 28-27 comeback win.
ASU is at home next week against California, providing the Bears are cleared medically to travel to Tempe.
Slovis threads TD pass on fourth down
USC quarterback Kedon Slovis threaded a 21-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Drake London on fourth-and-9.