Defensive lineman Claude Pelon steps up with clutch plays for Trojans

Claude Pelon was happy to contribute.

For the last few weeks, USC Coach Steve Sarkisian said he wanted more activity from defensive lineman other than Leonard Williams.

Pelon answered with two outstanding plays on consecutive snaps in USC’s 28-26 victory over Arizona.

With USC holding a 14-6 lead near the end of the first half, and Arizona threatening at the Trojans’ 15-yard line, Pelon sacked quarterback Anu Solomon on third down.

It was the first sack for the 6-foot-4, 295-pound Pelon, who transferred to USC from Mesa (Ariz.) Community College.

“I gave them a move … and another move and kept working,” Pelon said after the game. “I’ve watched film and watched NFL players, how they keep working to get that sack.

“Eventually they come.”

Pelon did not have much time to celebrate. On the next play, he blocked a field-goal attempt to end the first half.

Pelon said coaches had told him to “be selfish in a good way for the team.”

“I was thinking about how I could help my team and make this play,” he said.

Pelon deflected the ball with his right hand, preserving a 13-6 lead.

“There was so much adrenaline going through,” he said. ”I was pumped.”