USC rallied behind Jayden Maiava's late heroics to defeat Illinois 40-34 at Gies Memorial Stadium. The Trojans overcame a 31-17 fourth-quarter deficit as Maiava connected with Makai Lemon for three touchdown passes, including a crucial two-point conversion that gave USC its first lead. Despite Luke Altmyer's strong performance for the Illini, throwing for three touchdowns including a 64-yard strike to Kaden Feagin, the Trojans' 23-point fourth quarter proved too much to overcome.