FINAL: Notre Dame Fighting Irish outlast USC Trojans, 14-10
By Evan Reller
Oct 19, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Joe Schmidt (38) celebrates with cornerback Cole Luke (36) after breaking up a pass intended for Southern California Trojans tight end Jalen Cope-Fitpatrick (88) in the fourth quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeated USC 14-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The Notre Dame Fighting Irish defeated long time rival USC Saturday night. The Irish rode a first half lead to the 14-10 victory.
The low scoring defensive slugfest featured just as much poor play on offense. The game featured 10 three-and-outs from the two teams. USC was just 2-for-14 on third down and the Irish were just 4-for-14.
The win improved the Irish to 5-2 on the season.
Tommy Rees had a solid day managing the game for the Irish. He completed 14-of-21 attempts for 166 yards and threw two touchdowns.
Rees left the game early in the third quarter after being hit hard on a sack. Coach Brian Kelly said that he suffered a neck strain that will need to be evaluated.
Andrew Hendrix replaced Rees, but the Irish went with a run heavy set and Hendrix failed to complete a pass on four attempts.
Tight end Troy Niklas and wide receiver TJ Jones both hauled in a touchdown and had four catches apiece.
Cam McDaniel led the way on the ground, rushing for 92 yards on 18 carries.
Freshman linebacker Jaylon Smith had an interception, the Irish’s lone turnover of the game.
USC killed drive after drive with careless penalties. The Trojans racked up 11 penalties that cost them 95 yards.
The win marked the first time in 12 years that the Irish beat USC in South Bend.
Notre Dame will be at Air Force (1-6) next weekend.
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