Plaschke: USC keeps its playoff hopes alive with downpour of toughness against Iowa

Chit-Chat Wright's outstanding performance led No. 21 Iowa to a victory, marking their fourth consecutive win of the season. The newcomer showcased near perfection in the game, turning what could have been a lackluster performance into a significant achievement for the team. Iowa's current record stands at 4-0, reflecting their strong start this season.

Oregon is set to face off against its fierce rival Oregon State, aiming for a ninth consecutive victory. Despite no longer being in the Pac-12 together, the rivalry continues to thrive across various sports. The upcoming match is highly anticipated as both teams look to assert their dominance in this longstanding competition.

The SEC faces significant turmoil as Alabama suffers an upset, Texas records its third loss, and Texas A&M and Ole Miss narrowly avoid defeat. The implications of Week 12 on the College Football Playoff (CFP) rankings are under scrutiny, raising questions about the playoff prospects for teams like Texas, USC, and Michigan. The upcoming games are expected to have major implications for the CFP, as teams vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament.

With only two weeks remaining in the college football regular season, the College Football Playoff (CFP) picture is becoming clearer. Recent events, particularly in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), have significantly influenced the playoff landscape. The upcoming CFP rankings reveal is set for Tuesday night, and the results from Saturday's games are expected to have a substantial impact on the rankings and the teams' playoff prospects.

Oklahoma's football team achieved a significant victory against Alabama, winning 23-21 in Tuscaloosa. This win propelled Oklahoma back into the top 10 of the AP Top 25 rankings, while Alabama fell from its previous fourth position. The match was crucial for both teams, as they entered the game ranked 11th and fourth, respectively, in the AP poll and College Football Playoff rankings.

On Saturday, the USC football team achieved a significant victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes, winning 26-21 at home. This win improved the Trojans' record for the 2025 college football season to 8-2, keeping their hopes for a spot in the College Football Playoff alive.

Lincoln Riley has identified Makai Lemon as a key player for the USC football team, highlighting his exceptional performance against Illinois where he recorded 11 catches for 151 yards and two touchdowns. Riley praised Lemon's versatility and consistency, noting that he can line up in various positions. Kirk Ferentz, a seasoned coach, remarked that Lemon is unlike any player he has encountered in the past 20 years, underscoring Lemon's unique skill set and impact on the game.

USC coach Lincoln Riley discussed the Trojans' impressive comeback victory over Iowa, which significantly impacted their season. The game showcased the team's resilience and determination, as they fought back to secure a 26-21 win despite challenging weather conditions. This victory is crucial for maintaining their hopes for the College Football Playoff.