BREAKING: The Big Ten has confirmed that the USC Trojans should have faced a penalty during their 38-17 victory over the Northwestern Wildcats on November 4, 2025. The incident arose from a controversial trick play that involved backup quarterback Sam Huard wearing a No. 80 jersey, which violated NCAA rules.
In a game where USC improved its season record to 7-2, the pivotal moment occurred early in the second quarter with the score tied at 7-7. The Trojans executed a fake punt on a 4th-and-6, where Huard connected with wide receiver Tanook Hines to gain the first down. This series of events set USC on a path to take the lead just five plays later.
However, the Big Ten has admitted that when punter Sam Johnson entered the game wearing the same jersey number 80 on the next possession, USC should have been penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct under NCAA’s “Unfair Tactics” rules. The specific rule states that “two players playing the same position may not wear the same number during the game.” This oversight could have resulted in a 15-yard penalty against the Trojans.
The implications are significant for USC, as they are currently on a two-game win streak and fighting for a chance in the College Football Playoff. The Trojans now shift their focus to a crucial matchup against the No. 20 Iowa Hawkeyes, who narrowly fell to the No. 9 Oregon Ducks with a score of 18-16 at Kinnick Stadium this past Saturday.
Fans are eagerly anticipating this game, as it could be a defining moment for USC’s playoff aspirations. Following the Iowa game, the Trojans will head to Eugene for a highly-anticipated face-off against the Ducks, before wrapping up their regular season at home against the UCLA Bruins on November 29, 2025.
With the Big Ten’s admission still fresh, football analysts and fans alike are debating the potential impact of this ruling on USC’s season. The controversy over the trick play raises questions about officiating standards and the enforcement of NCAA regulations, fueling further discussions ahead of the Trojans’ next game.
What happens next? All eyes will be on Lincoln Riley’s squad as they prepare for a challenging schedule that could either secure their playoff spot or leave them on the outside looking in. Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
