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5h ago

USC’s Jersey Switch Lets Sam Huard Hit Fake-Punt Pass vs. Northwestern

The maneuver complied with roster rules that permit pregame number changes.

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USC wide receiver Tanook Hines catches a fourth-down pass thrown by third-string quarterback Sam Huard on a fake punt during the first half of their game against Northwestern on Friday night at the Coliseum. Huard, not pictured, was wearing the same jersey number (80) as USC punter Sam Johnson, an element of surprise that caught Northwestern off guard. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
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Overview

  • Early in the second quarter, Sam Huard entered with the punt unit wearing No. 80 and completed a 10-yard pass to Tanook Hines for a first down.
  • USC had Huard officially listed as No. 80 on the game-day roster, matching punter Sam Johnson’s number as allowed when players are not on the field together.
  • The conversion extended the drive that later finished with a Jayden Maiava touchdown run.
  • A USC spokesperson confirmed the pregame number change, and no penalty was assessed.
  • Broadcasters initially credited the play to the punter, and the tactic drew criticism from some observers even as similar stunts, such as Bowling Green’s in last season’s 68 Ventures Bowl, provide precedent.