The USC Trojans handed the Arizona State Sun Devils their fourth consecutive loss with a 38-17 win Saturday afternoon in Los Angeles. ASU held the lead as late as midway through the third quarter, but the Trojans' defense clamped down as the offense kicked into gear to pull out in front.
Arizona State vs. USC 2012 Results: Trojans overcome mistakes for 38-17 win
The Trojans gave up 17 points off turnovers to the Sun Devils, but took control of the game in the second half.
Matt Barkley threw three interceptions in the first three quarters, one of which was taken back for a touchdown by Alden Darby to give ASU a 14-7 lead in the second quarter.
USC's ability to come back after mistakes was the story of the day. The Trojans turned the ball over three times in total, including a fumble by Marqise Lee to start the game and set up the Sun Devils' first touchdown.
After ASU took the lead in the third quarter, 17-14, following Barkley's third interception, the Trojans began to take over. Two consecutive drives ended in scores from running back Curtis McNeal, and USC took a comfortable 28-17 lead to the fourth.
Arizona State couldn’t do much on offense to close the game, and USC snapped its two-game losing streak to keep hopes of a Rose Bowl trip alive.
Box Score Hero: McNeal took the throne from Lee by rushing for 163 yards and two scores. He also added a 22-yard touchdown catch.
Rankings Ramifications: No. 19 USC would have surely fallen out of the rankings with a loss, but they now have a chance to move up with a win.
But Did They Cover? USC’s dominant second half allowed them to cover, as they were favored by 10.5.
Next Week’s Schedule: USC visits rival UCLA with a trip to the Pac-12 Championship game on the line. ASU will look to end its losing streak against Washington State.
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