USC somehow converted a Michigan-recovered fumble by Miller Moss into a first down and subsequent touchdown.

The Trojans had a third and goal late in the third quarter when Moss was hit while attempting to throw the ball. The ball was broken loose just before Moss’ arm went forward, and Michigan defensive lineman Kenneth Grant grabbed the loose ball.

As Grant charged down the field, USC running back Woody Marks tried to cut him off. Instead of tackling Grant, Marks went to get the ball.

And it worked. Marks ripped the ball out of Grant’s hands and recovered it for the Trojans.

Two plays later, USC cut Michigan’s lead to 20-17 with a 16-yard touchdown pass from Moss to Jay Fair.

The ruling that a fumble occurred cost Michigan at least four points. Since Moss was hit on the third attempt, the Trojans would have had a fourth attempt and likely a field goal attempt if the pass had been ruled incomplete. The play was reviewed, but the referees ruled that Moss’ arm had not yet begun to move forward when he lost control.

The touchdown was USC’s second of the third quarter after the Trojans trailed 14-3 at halftime. Michigan’s only points in the third quarter came on a pick-6 by cornerback Will Johnson.