USC Trojans quarterback Miller Moss showcased his toughness and leadership in a standout Week 5 performance against the Wisconsin Badgers, impressing teammates, coaches, and analysts alike.
Moss, a 22-year-old redshirt junior, joined USC in 2021 as a consensus four-star recruit, ranked the No. 7 quarterback in his class by ESPN. Although he had limited playing time in his first three years—serving as a backup to Keedon Slovis, Jaxson Dart, and Caleb Williams—he has patiently waited for his opportunity and is now excelling.
This season, Moss has thrown for 1,198 yards and eight touchdowns in the first four games, completing 65.43% of his passes with just two interceptions. His performance has significantly contributed to the Trojans’ 3-1 record and their No. 11 ranking in the AP Top 25.
In the game against Wisconsin, Miller Moss led the Trojans to a 38-21 victory, delivering multiple highlight-reel plays despite subpar pass protection. He completed 30 passes for 308 yards and three touchdowns, consistently taking hits without faltering. Teammate Woody Marks praised his resilience: “He’s a very tough person. Anytime he gets knocked down, he gets right back up. He’s the vocal leader on and off the field.”
Coach Lincoln Riley echoed this sentiment, noting Moss’s willingness to endure hits for the sake of making crucial throws. Moss also scored a pivotal touchdown in the fourth quarter, executing a dramatic run into the end zone while absorbing a tough hit.
Wide receiver Duce Robinson, who caught a touchdown pass from Moss, described the quarterback’s performance as “super gutsy.”
As a redshirt junior, Moss has the option to return for the 2025 season or declare for the NFL Draft, where his stock is rising. He is currently among the top quarterback prospects, with some mock drafts predicting him as a first-round selection.
Looking ahead, USC faces the Minnesota Golden Gophers on October 5, where Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck praised Moss as an agile athlete who elevates the performance of those around him.