The Trojan season ends as it has gone all year—a relentless defensive attack alongside a pathetic Sam Darnold-led offense. In what will be one of the strangest bowl games this season, #5 Ohio State defeated #8 USC 24-7 as both teams were scoreless in the second half of the 2017 Cotton Bowl Classic.
A strong defensive effort by the Buckeyes resulted in four turnovers and a forgetful game for Sam Darnold as he went 26-for-45 with 356 yards and one interception. Ronald Jones II had USC’s only touchdown but rushed for 64 yards on 19 carries.