Micah's takeaways from USC's big win versus Nebraska

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The USC Trojans are trending in the right direction, at least to the extent that they can still make this a successful season. After the Trojans lost to rival Notre Dame, they bounced back and got an ugly but meaningful win against Nebraska. The Trojans are entering a significant stretch of games for Lincoln Riley and this program's direction for the future. There is a great opportunity in front of them; all the Trojans have to do is erase old habits.

Here are my takeaways for the Trojans after their Week 10 victory over Nebraska:

Jayden Maiava was more effective using his legs

Jayden Maiava, when things were not going as expected through the air for the Trojans, still managed to make plays. One was a rushing touchdown that helped tie the game. More often than not in recent weeks (not September), Maiava forces throws and makes mistakes when he does not like what he sees. In this game, he used his legs, and that made up for his disappointing passing performance. Maiava ran for 62 yards on 11 carries, and that just added to a great day on the ground from King Miller. Jayden Maiava should be more consistent with using his legs because his athleticism can catch defenses off guard.

King Miller was the MVP of this game

The Trojans needed their run game to be effective to win this football game, and King Miller showed up big time. The opposing running back, Emmett Johnson, ran wild, but King Miller was just as good in this game. Miller had the lead-clinching rushing touchdown. King Miller took on the responsibility of this offense's success, and he channeled his own Waymond Jordan-level performance. Miller finished the game with 18 carries for 129 yards rushing and a rushing touchdown.

Elijah Paige was great in his return

Offensive linemen Elijah Paige returned, and he helped give this run game a huge lift. The Trojans' offensive line is not the same starting unit they entered the season with, as they have dealt with many injuries. The run game dominated, and USC took inspiration from Notre Dame and Illinois as they were the more physical team in this game. You have to give some credit for that to a guy like Elijah Paige.

Defense showed up

The Trojans' defense showed up in this game. Nebraska was the better football team in this game, no question, but the Trojans' defense still limited a high-scoring offense. This was a low-scoring game to the surprise of everyone. The Trojans' defense really had a bend-don't-break mentality after the first half; they forced the Cornhuskers into situations where they could beat themselves. Marcelles Williams stepped big and had a breakout performance. Got to give a lot of credit to D'Anton Lynn getting this secondary and defense as a whole to put up another winning performance such as this.

Trojans are still alive for the CFP

In November, the Trojans have a shot left for meaningful football late in the season. Getting into the College Football Playoff would silence some doubt about Lincoln Riley and maybe earn him an extension. The Trojans have to beat both Iowa and Oregon to achieve that goal, and with how crazy this season has been, that is not out of the realm of possibilities. The Trojans have shown at times this season to be a team that can play with anybody that just need to get healthier, and clean up mental mistakes in the big moments. All you ask for at the end of the day is a chance, and the Trojans at the very least have that in front of them.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football is trending in the right direction, but only slightly

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