Trojans Rally From Two-Touchdown Hole to Beat Hawkeyes 26-21

photo from yahoo sports

Nov, 15, 2025, 8:45pm

Blog by Walker Johnson

LOS ANGELES — In a classic comeback under pouring rain at the Coliseum, USC erased a 21-7 halftime deficit to defeat Iowa 26-21. The Trojans moved to 8-2 overall and 6-1 in Big Ten play, while Iowa dropped to 6-4, 4-3 in conference. 

Iowa stunned the Trojans early. Quarterback Mark Gronowski contributed a rushing touchdown and a receiving touchdown, including a flawless trick-play pass that made it 21-7 just before halftime. The Hawkeyes seemed in control in the first half, thriving even in the wet conditions.  

But the second half belonged entirely to USC. The Trojans scored 19 unanswered points behind a balanced attack and defensive adjustments. Quarterback Jayden Maiava threw for 254 yards, while running back Bryan Jackson rushed for two touchdowns, including the go-ahead score with about 13½ minutes remaining. The rally sealed a major road victory for USC. 

Standout Performers & Key Stats

• Makai Lemon (USC): 10 catches for 153 yards and a touchdown — his best game of the season and a key weapon in the comeback.  

• Jayden Maiava (USC): 23-of-32 passing for 254 yards, orchestrating the late drives.

• Bryan Jackson (USC): Two rushing touchdowns including the decisive one in the fourth quarter.

• Mark Gronowski (Iowa): Threw a TD pass, ran for a TD, and even caught a TD — great first half, but Iowa’s offense stalled in the second half.  

• Team note: USC’s defense shut Iowa out in the second half, limiting them to under 110 total yards after halftime.  

413’s Bottomline

For USC, this was a signature win — showcasing resilience, depth and a championship-level mindset. Erasing a two-touchdown deficit in such conditions speaks volumes about their character. With the win, their College Football Playoff hopes take a major boost.

For Iowa, this one hurts. They played a brilliant first half but couldn’t sustain it. The offense stalled when it counted most, and the defense didn’t make the necessary stops down the stretch. Their playoff hopes take a hit, and the learning moment is clear.

Up Next

Iowa: Host Michigan State next Saturday.

USC: Travel to Oregon next Saturday for College Gameday.