KEYS TO THE GAME

USC

Gary Klein’s keys to the game, and how the Trojans measured up:

1. Contain Tyler Ebell. USC still has not allowed an opposing running back to rush for more 100 yards. Ebell, who had gained more than 100 yards in six consecutive games, finished with 56 in 12 carries against the Trojans.

2. Establish the run. Justin Fargas rushed for 43 yards in 16 carries, but his performance over the last few games made Bruin cornerbacks bite on play-action fakes, opening up the passing game.

3. Avoid turnovers and penalties. The Trojans did not commit a turnover for the second consecutive game. They were penalized six times for 55 yards.

4. Mistake-free kicking game. Ryan Killeen kicked seven extra points, including one from 35 yards, and a 27-yard field goal. Punter Tom Malone averaged 40.7 yards on six kicks.

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UCLA

Steve Henson’s keys to the game, and how the Bruins measured up:

1. Protect freshman quarterbacks: USC registered five sacks, and a safety blitz by DeShaun Hill caused Bruin quarterback Drew Olson to fumble. Neither Olson nor fellow freshman Matt Moore displayed sufficient poise.

2. Limit the yards gained by Trojan receivers after they catch passes. A greater problem was Trojan receivers getting behind Bruin defenders and catching long passes. UCLA was so conscious of taking away the short pass that Kareem Kelly and Keary Colbert were able to get free deep.

3. The defense and special teams must make big plays. All the big plays went USC’s way. Bruin special teams didn’t help. Tab Perry fumbled the opening kickoff and a bad punt snap later in the first quarter resulted in a 34-yard loss.