Nov. 29 marked the date for the annual crosstown rival football matchup between USC and UCLA. Switching between the Coliseum and Rose Bowl each year, this year’s match was dished out at the home of the Trojans.
During the first half, both teams fiercely battled it out, trying their best to not let one team get the best of the other. Ending with a score of 10-7 at halftime, fans were anticipating the final trajectory of the game. Going into the second half, USC set up for a victory closing out the game with a winning score of 29-10.
No matter what side you root for, each year’s game makes for a heated event with fans on both sides cheering and rooting for their favorite team. Fans from all over Los Angeles anticipate and gather for the year matchup with energy levels at an all time high. Here are some highlights from the game capturing the game, people, and energy.
The Trojans make an entrance running onto the field amidst pyrotechnics. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) King Miller being tackled while running through a group of players. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Anthony Lucas running to intercept UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Makai Lemon celebrating after catching a 32-yard touchdown. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Noah Beck, Siena Agudong, and Drew Ray Tanner taking a selfie with the USC Marching Band. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) USC Fans singing in unison “Sweet Caroline,” an often occurrence at USC games. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Marquis Gallegos runs while being chased by a group of Bruins. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Prince Strachan celebrating with a USC Marching Band drummer after USC claimed victory. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Jide Abasiri leading the USC Marching Band after USC being victorious against the Bruins. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo) Lincoln Riley leading the USC Marching Band as the crowd cheers on in unison. (Courtesy of Aaron Ogawa/USC El Rodeo)
While this year’s game has come to an end, the 96 annual matchup has not. What is considered “the game” for fans on both sides is what keeps the long tradition going between the two schools. Next year’s game in 2026 will take place at the Rose Bowl.