Originally published Monday, October 2, 2006 at 12:00 AM

Cougars Replay | USC 28, WSU 22

The good: The Cougars gave the nation's No. 3 team a battle and the game wasn't decided until the final play. Kicker Loren Langley was 3 for 3, the offensive line didn't allow a sack and the only turnover was on a desperation pass on the final play of the game.

The bad: Great fight that it was, it's still a loss. Starting defensive tackle Fevaea'I Ahmu further cracked a foot bone and could be out for weeks.

Next up: Saturday at Oregon State, 4 p.m., FSN

Offense: The Cougars outgained USC 418-404. Receiver Michael Bumpus had a career-high 11 catches for 112 yards. Quarterback Alex Brink threw for 287 yards and two touchdowns. The Cougars gained 131 yards on the ground against a tough defense. Grade: B-plus

Defense: The Cougars never could contain receiver Steve Smith, who caught 11 passes for 186 yards and two touchdowns. QB John David Booty threw for 269 yards and three TDs. The Trojans were 2 for 2 on fourth-down conversions. Grade: B

Special teams: In addition to Langley's 3-for-3 field-goal kicking, punter Darryl Blunt averaged 44.2 yards and Benny Ward downed a punt at the 1-yard line with an athletic backhand flip of the ball. However, a 55-yard kickoff returned was allowed. Grade: B

Craig Smith


WSU game leaders
Passing	PC-PA-PI	Yds.	TD
Alex Brink	46-26-1	287	2
Rushing	TCB-Yds.	Avg.	TD
Dwight Tardy	11-62	5.6	0
Receiving	No.-Yds.	Avg.	TD
Michael Bumpus	11-112	10.2	0
Jason Hill	7-49	7.0	1
Tackles	Solo	Ast.	Sa.
Greg Trent	6	8	0