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2h ago

Makai Lemon’s Career Day Highlights USC’s Loss at Illinois, Earns ‘Strong Buy’ Draft Rating

USC enters a bye at 4-1 after a 34-32 defeat decided by a last-second field goal.

Wide receiver Makai Lemon #6 of the USC Trojans celebrates after a touchdown against the Michigan State Spartans in the first half of a NCAA football game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles on Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)
Sep 20, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) runs for a touchdown against the Michigan State Spartans during the second half at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Lemon set a career high with 11 receptions and caught two fourth-quarter touchdowns that briefly put USC ahead.
  • He was targeted 15 times as the Trojans’ clear focal point, with tight end Lake McRee next at five targets.
  • Illinois prevailed 34-32 on David Olano’s last-second 41-yard kick after posting 502 yards, as Luke Altmyer threw for 328 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions.
  • Draft Wire labeled Lemon a “strong buy” for NFL teams, citing his production and central role while noting questions about size and speed.
  • The Orange County Register reported Lemon earned Pro Football Focus’ top receiver grade for Week 5, and USC now sits 4-1 with a bye week ahead.