I think the USC defense threw some thing at us we hadn’t seen and didn’t adjust well to like the delayed blitz that work every time. They figured out a way to take away inside zone runs. 

However, our game plan became extremely vanilla after we went up 24-0.  

We were content to keep running clock as te Defense kept dominating, making sure there was no possibility of a turnover. 

Point: the offense looked more inept than it really was.

JT had a couple typical misfires, but he was otherwise throwing the ball well...better than the big 10 championship game. He threaded some needles and threw some guys open. 

Im inclined to believe that the lack of offensive creativity, continuing to pound the rock and run the clock... while the defense continued to dominate... WAS the game plan after halftime. Especially after KJ Hills fumble have USC life.  

I think coaches thought runs would work a little better. But were MOST afraid of giving Darnold too many minutes and attempts to USC back in the game.  Best way to win that game was to limit his opportunities. 

So... the strange and boring playcalling in the second half was, IMO not because JT was bad... 11/17 with a drop and a couple misfires only. Moreover, their DBs were playing 10!yards off the line often, and we barely attacked the edges. We never tried to really @Sammy Watkins” then. think we just didn’t need offense & USCs biggest threat was Darnold going HAM like an NFL QB could.