The USC Trojans know they have a strong defense, and they showed just how dominant their defense is with a forced fumble on the first snap of the game.
The USC Trojan offense got off to a slow start. The UNLV Rebels defense kept the Trojans out of the end zone the entire first quarter, forcing the Trojans to kick four field goals. Chase McGrath was the unsung hero of the day, ending with five field goals to tie a school record. It was the Rebels that found the end zone first when the Trojans defense gave up a 71 yard run to UNLV senior, Lexington Thomas.