Arizona Wildcats Fall Short in Triple Overtime Thriller against USC
In an exhilarating triple-overtime showdown, the Arizona Wildcats faced off against the No. 9 USC Trojans, ultimately coming up just short with a final score of 43-41. Despite the loss, the Wildcats delivered a valiant fight, challenging USC like no other team has done this season.
The reigning Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback for USC, Caleb Williams, found himself facing a tougher battle than usual, as he appeared mortal for the first time this season. It was Noah Fifita, Arizona’s sophomore quarterback, who stole the show with an exceptional performance that showcased his talent and composure.
Fifita, in only his second career start, stood tall in the pocket and delivered an impressive stat line of 25 completions on 35 attempts, amassing a total of 302 yards and an astounding five touchdowns. His connection with wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was evident, as McMillan racked up six catches for 138 yards. But it was Jacob Cowing who truly shone, consistently finding open space and proving to be a reliable target for Fifita. Cowing hauled in 10 receptions out of 13 targets, accumulating 87 yards and an impressive four touchdown catches. This remarkable performance not only marked a career-high for Cowing but also brought his season total to eight touchdowns. Additionally, Cowing surpassed 4,000 career receiving yards and extended his streak of games with at least one reception to 50.
The absence of starting running back Michael Wiley did not hinder the Wildcats’ ground game. Jonah Coleman stepped up and delivered a career-best performance, rushing for a remarkable 143 yards on 21 carries. He also added another 37 yards through four receptions, bringing his total yards from scrimmage to an impressive 180. This breakout game marked Coleman’s first 100-yard rushing game and his first game with more than 20 touches in his college career.
Despite falling short, the Wildcats’ offensive unit fought tooth and nail throughout the game. Even in overtime, Fifita and the offense matched USC’s touchdowns, with a successful extra point kick in the first overtime and a touchdown followed by a 2-point conversion in the second overtime. However, in the third overtime, head coach Jedd Fisch made the decision to take the ball out of Fifita’s hands, ultimately resulting in a run play that was stopped behind the line of scrimmage, sealing the victory for USC.
On the defensive side, penalties plagued the Wildcats in the second half, tarnishing an otherwise solid performance. The defense initially began the game with intensity, allowing Arizona to jump ahead to a commanding 17-0 lead in the first half. Williams, USC’s quarterback, struggled to find his footing, completing just four passes on 10 attempts for 115 yards with no touchdowns. The Wildcats’ defense managed to sack Williams four times, and he endured some hefty hits from defensive end Taylor Upshaw and defensive back Martell Irby. Russell Davis II emerged as a standout performer, leading the team in sacks with 1.5 and tackles for loss with 2.5.
The defense showcased its playmaking ability when Isaiah Ward forced a crucial USC fumble, swiftly recovered by Martell Irby. However, a later interception thrown by Fifita early in the second quarter halted the Wildcats’ momentum. Despite holding on to a slim 17-14 lead at halftime, Arizona found themselves spiraling downwards.
The third quarter proved fateful for the Wildcats, as defensive pass interference by cornerback Tacario Davis on a fourth down play allowed USC to gain a fresh set of downs. Two plays later, linebacker Justin Flowe committed an avoidable roughing-the-passer penalty, granting USC another fresh set of downs and ultimately allowing them to score a crucial touchdown, taking a 21-20 lead. In the fourth quarter, there were two more defensive penalties, including a second roughing the passer call, this time on Ta’ita’i Uiagalelei.
Special teams played a significant role throughout the game, with both teams relying on crucial field goals and conversions. The Wildcats’ kicker, Tyler Loop, attempted his first career field goal from 50 yards with just over two minutes remaining in the game. Unfortunately, Loop missed the attempt, handing possession back to USC with the score tied at 28-28. USC had an opportunity to win in regulation with a field goal attempt, but a high snap troubled the holder, and the special teams unit for Arizona tackled the holder, forcing the game into overtime.
Though the Arizona Wildcats fell agonizingly short in this triple-overtime thriller, their performance showcased their resilience and talent. They pushed the No. 9 ranked USC Trojans to their limits, proving that they are a force to be reckoned with. The Wildcats displayed an impressive offensive showing led by Noah Fifita and Jacob Cowing, while the defense showed flashes of brilliance despite struggling with penalties. Though the outcome was not in their favor, the Wildcats’ valiant fight against USC leaves a lasting impression.
