After an unorthodox 2,300-mile journey to Los Angeles, it was another slow start for Penn State. The Nittany Lions forced a quick USC punt on the opening possession and drove the length of the field on its first offensive series. A questionable offensive pass interference call on what would have been a touchdown pass to Tyler Warren forced the Lions to settle for a field goal and a 3-0 lead. And that was the high water mark of the first half.
The Trojans executed a perfect reverse on the first play of the ensuing drive for a 75-yard touchdown run by Quinton Joyner.