Miller Moss Resilience. That’s the word that best captures Miller Moss’ performance in No. 23 USC’s hard-fought win over the No. 13 LSU Tigers. Moss faced relentless pressure from the LSU defense, which was orchestrated by new defensive coordinator Blake Baker. Baker’s aggressive 4-2-5 scheme posed a significant challenge for the USC offense.
The USC offensive line, featuring three new starters and a position switch for Jonah Monheim, struggled to keep Moss protected. The relentless pressure from LSU resulted in Moss taking several hard hits throughout the game.
Despite the adversity, Moss remained composed. In the first half, he completed 13 of 15 passes for 176 yards, effectively managing a two-minute drive that ended in a missed field goal attempt. His performance was a testament to his ability to stay focused under pressure.
The third quarter, however, proved difficult for Moss and the USC offense. They were unable to score, and the rhythm of the game was disrupted. The offensive line continued to struggle with pressure, and star receiver Zachariah Branch was not involved at all during this period.
In a challenging neutral-site game against a formidable SEC opponent, Moss refused to buckle under the pressure. Although it’s unwise to draw broad conclusions from a single game, one thing is clear: Miller Moss has established himself as a leader for the USC Trojans. His resilience and leadership were pivotal in securing the victory.
Moss led two crucial scoring drives in the fourth quarter, including a decisive 75-yard drive that put USC ahead with just eight seconds remaining. While many may not remember his impressive 378-yard performance on 29 of 38 passing attempts, or the clutch throws he made under pressure, what stands out is his ability to repeatedly get back up after taking hit after hit, undeterred and fearless.
Notable reactions from the game highlighted Moss’ remarkable performance. LSU Coach Brian Kelly acknowledged Moss’ impact, stating, “He outplayed our quarterback.” Former USC Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams praised Moss with a simple but heartfelt, “Mossy, you did your thing, playa.” Williams and Moss were teammates for two seasons, adding a personal touch to the compliment.
Matt Leinart, another former USC Heisman winner, lauded Moss, saying, “…and how about Miller Moss… ice cold!” Similarly, Robert Griffin III, a former Heisman Trophy winner, reflected on Moss’ journey, noting, “Three years ago, I called USC’s spring game, and there was a QB who was absolutely balling out. His name was Miller Moss. I called him M&M because he embodied what it meant to lose yourself in the music. Tonight was his moment. He owned it. He got his shot and now he won’t ever let it go.”
Moss’s performance against LSU not only demonstrated his toughness and leadership but also solidified his role as a pivotal figure for the USC Trojans moving forward.