WSU-USC: Jacob Thorpe’s keys to the game

3: What went wrong

In the short term the Cougars were unable to prevent explosive passing plays against the Trojans, who had five players record a catch of at least 18 yards. Far more important however is the injury to record- setting quarterback Connor Halliday, a passer who seemed tailor-made for the Air Raid offense and has played at a high level all season.

2: Difference maker

Nelson Agholor’s speed was simply too much for the WSU defense on Saturday. He started off the scoring with a 65-yard punt return and broke open the game with the aforementioned 87-yard score. The junior receiver’s eight receptions went for 220 yards, six first downs and the touchdown.