University Southern California Trojans
USC Safety Christian Pierce Honored as Jim Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week
September 22, 2026 | Football
LOS ANGELES—USC senior safety Christian Pierce was named the Jim Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week after delivering a complete performance with a game-high 11 tackles, 6 solo tackles, one interception (his first of the season) and two pass breakups in USC's 42-35 victory over Rutgers on Saturday (Sept. 19).
Pierce intercepted QB Dylan Lonergan on Rutgers' second play of the game and returned it 16 yards to the Rutgers 24-yard line. USC scored two plays later, making Pierce's interception responsible for setting up the Trojans' first touchdown.
Pierce led all tracked defensive backs nationally in tackles during Week 3. His physicality and steady presence provided a spark for the Trojans' secondary with his hard-hitting style setting the tone throughout the road win.
No. 12 USC welcomes No. 20 Oregon to the Coliseum for its Big Ten home opener. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, Sept. 26. The game will air live on NBC.Â
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Pierce intercepted QB Dylan Lonergan on Rutgers' second play of the game and returned it 16 yards to the Rutgers 24-yard line. USC scored two plays later, making Pierce's interception responsible for setting up the Trojans' first touchdown.
Pierce led all tracked defensive backs nationally in tackles during Week 3. His physicality and steady presence provided a spark for the Trojans' secondary with his hard-hitting style setting the tone throughout the road win.
No. 12 USC welcomes No. 20 Oregon to the Coliseum for its Big Ten home opener. Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, Sept. 26. The game will air live on NBC.Â
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