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Trojans make statement at Notre Dame

Kiffin gets signature win by going back to the physical ball of Carroll era

Updated: October 23, 2011, 2:25 PM ET
By Greg Katz | WeAreSC.com
Lane Kiffin was hoping to become the first USC head football coach to win his first game at Notre Dame Stadium since Howard Jones accomplished that feat in 1931.

That opportunity became reality with the Trojans' manhandling of the Irish, 31-17, under the stars in Notre Dame Stadium. For Kiffin, this was the proverbial signature victory for which he had been searching.

Jawanza Starling's 80-yard fumble return was the biggest play of the game, but more so this was the biggest victory of Kiffin's young USC coaching career and a triumph that might prove to be the catalyst for a big finish to 2011.

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Greg Katz | email

Columnist, WeAreSC.com
  • USC Trojans columnist
  • Football Writers Association member
  • Joined ESPN.com in 2011

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