U.S.C., Backed by Its Big Name, Makes Case for National Title Run

NY Times | November 20, 2022

Southern California earned a trip to the Pac-12 Conference championship game with a rivalry win over U.C.L.A., giving it a chance to state its case for the College Football Playoff.

Southern California quarterback Caleb Williams leading the U.S.C. marching band through its standards following a win over U.C.L.A.Credit...Mark J. Terrill/Associated Press

PASADENA, Calif. — It was Larry Smith’s parting lament, delivered as he was on his way out as the Southern California coach with a loss to Fresno State in the Freedom Bowl, which came three years after a run of three consecutive Rose Bowl trips.