SOUTH BEND, Ind., Oct. 17 (UPI) -- Matt Barkley's two touchdown passes Saturday helped fifth-ranked USC top No. 25 Notre Dame 34-27, its eighth straight win in the historic series.
Barkley, a freshman playing in his first contest between the rivals, completed 19-of-29 passes, with both touchdowns going to Damian Williams.
Joe McKnight scored once on 19 carries for 79 yards, while Williams and Anthony McCoy combined for 261 receiving yards for the Trojans (5-1), who have won three straight since a 16-13 loss at Washington on Sept. 19.
Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen overcame five sacks to complete 24-of-43 passes for 260 yards with two touchdowns.
Golden Tate scored twice on eight receptions for 117 yards, and Robby Parris added nine catches for 92 yards for the Fighting Irish (4-2), who have not beaten USC since Oct. 20, 2001, and had won three in a row.
