USC proves its chops in romp over Michigan

[Plaschke, from D1]

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QUARTERBACK Jayden Maiava, who was 25 of 32 for 265 yards passing and two touchdowns, throws against Michigan in the first half of USC's win on Saturday.

(GINA FERAZZI Los Angeles Times)

“Awesome, awesome win,” said Riley. “Tough, tough response by our football team. ... [thought we attacked it ... dominated the football game on all sides ... gritty, tough performance.”

What was that noise? The Coliseum was as raucous as it’s been in several years, screaming with John Robinson strength and Pete Carroll power, sounding like the glory days again, and it made a difference.

“I would imagine a lot of people would say that’s what it used to feel like around here in the Coliseum,” Riley said. “That was an epic atmosphere, the place was just on fire... you could just feel the impact of our crowd ... you could feel the energy.”

And, for goodness’ sake, who is this King Miller? He’s a third-string running back who actually pays to attend class with his million-dollar teammates, a walk-on who stepped in after top running backs Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders were injured and rumbled for 158 yards and a touchdown.

“King was huge, stepped up, made big plays,” said Riley, later adding, “And honestly, hell, we didn’t have anybody else, so what was I gonna do?”