'Program First: Trojans' Third Straight Game with 50+ Points to Start Season - STAT WATCH'

USC's football team has scored at least 50 points in each of their first three games for the first time in program history.

In a historic display of offensive power, the Southern California Trojans have become the first team in seven years to open a season with three consecutive games of scoring at least 50 points. Their dominant 56-10 victory over Stanford on Saturday brought their total points scored in the first three games to 178, the highest in the Football Bowl Subdivision since 2016. This remarkable achievement puts the Trojans in elite company, tying them for the second-most points scored in any three-game stretch in program history. With their explosive offense led by star quarterback Caleb Williams, USC is setting records and making a statement in college football.

Williams, the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner, has been the driving force behind USC's offensive explosion. In just the first half against Stanford, he threw for an impressive 312 yards and three touchdowns, bringing his season total to a nation-leading 12 touchdown passes with no interceptions. Williams' exceptional performance has elevated him to the status of one of the most electrifying players in college football.

Meanwhile, North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton had a standout game of his own, rushing for a career-high 234 yards and three touchdowns in the Tar Heels' thrilling 40-34 double-overtime victory over Appalachian State. Hampton's performance solidified his status as one of the top rushers in the nation this season. Last year, he made waves as a true freshman by becoming the first Carolina player since 1946 to rush for 100 yards in his first career game. Now, he continues to impress with his explosive running style and ability to find the end zone.

The University of Nebraska, on the other hand, has struggled to find success in their first two games under new head coach Matt Rhule. The Cornhuskers' biggest issue has been turnovers, with eight of their offensive series ending in interceptions or fumbles. This turnover problem has plagued the team and contributed to their 0-2 start to the season. Quarterback Jeff Sims has been responsible for six of the team's eight turnovers, making him the player with the most turnovers in the Power Five conferences.

In a surprising turn of events, the Syracuse Orange, who have ranked near the bottom of the Atlantic Coast Conference in scoring for the past four years, have exploded for 113 points in their first two games. This offensive outburst is the fourth-highest total in program history at this point in the season. Syracuse's dominant performances, including a 65-0 victory over FCS Colgate and a 48-7 win over Western Michigan, have showcased the team's newfound offensive firepower.

In the realm of individual performances, Gage Larvadain of Miami (Ohio) had a standout game, amassing the most receiving yards in a game in two seasons. Larvadain caught eight passes for 273 yards and three touchdowns in an impressive display of skill and athleticism. His performance was the highest receiving yardage total since Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba had 347 yards in the 2022 Rose Bowl.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights have shown significant improvement compared to last season. The team, which ranked 95th nationally in defense last year, has only allowed 14 points through their first two games. This is the fewest points allowed by the Scarlet Knights at this point in the season since 2012, a testament to their improved defensive play.

In the Football Championship Subdivision, CJ Montes of Fordham University has continued the team's tradition of exceptional quarterback play. Montes threw for five touchdowns for the second consecutive game in Fordham's thrilling 40-37 victory over Buffalo. Fordham's 69 touchdown passes since the start of last season are the most by any FCS team, and Montes has played a significant role in this success with his 11 touchdown passes and zero interceptions in the first three games of the season.

Overall, these early-season performances have showcased the talent and excitement of college football. From record-breaking offensive displays to standout individual performances, the 2022 season is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. As teams continue to compete and players strive for greatness, fans can expect more unforgettable moments and incredible displays of skill on the gridiron.

Share With Others