Friday night’s matchup between USC and Northwestern wasn’t just another college football game — it was a masterclass in deception.
Early in the second quarter, the Trojans executed a play that left broadcasters and fans alike questioning what they’d just seen.
The Play That Fooled Everyone
USC lined up for what appeared to be a routine punt from deep in their own territory.
But in a blink, punter Sam Johnson seemed to find Tanook Hines for a 10-yard gain, converting a first down.
“Oh, it’s a fake!” exclaimed Fox announcer Jason Benetti as the play unfolded.
Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III chimed in, calling the left-handed pass a “dime piece,” praising the accuracy and poise on the field.
The Trojans rode that momentum down the field, eventually scoring a touchdown — but the real twist came minutes later, and it had everyone rewatching the clip in disbelief.
Not Who You Thought
After the play, Benetti and Griffin were still raving about Johnson’s passing skills — until they realized the punter hadn’t thrown the ball at all.
USC had pulled a classic sleight-of-hand trick: they put the punter’s jersey number, No. 80, on backup quarterback Sam Huard, who actually delivered the pass.
College football rules allow two players to wear the same number as long as they aren’t on the field simultaneously. USC exploited this perfectly.
Benetti laughed on air, explaining, “You know why the form was that good? They snuck the other 80 on!” Griffin added, calling it “Grade-A deception,” and highlighted just how clever the play truly was.
Family Ties Add Extra Drama
The story got even funnier off the field: Sam Huard is the nephew of Brock Huard, Benetti’s former broadcast partner.
As the clip made the rounds, Benetti joked, “My phone is going to be a disaster when Brock watches this. An absolute disaster.”
Brock Huard joined in on the fun, reposting the clip on X and teasing, “FIELD DAY indeed…” The playful rivalry only added to the moment’s charm.
The Game and Season Context
Despite all the theatrics, the fake punt was the only pass Sam Huard would throw all night.
USC cruised to a 38-17 victory, improving to 7-2 on the season, while Northwestern dropped to 5-4.
It’s a reminder that in college football, sometimes creativity and trickery can change the game, leaving both fans and broadcasters scratching their heads — and laughing along the way.
USC’s Boldness Pays Off
Whether it’s for the highlight reels, the scoreboard, or the sheer audacity of the play, USC’s fake punt will be talked about for a long time.
Coaches love a trick play that works, players love the thrill, and fans get the story they’ll be replaying all week.