Coming off a string of NFL rookies, transfers and injured players, the Texas A&M Aggies entered the SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl in Las Vegas with the goal of providing some momentum before the offseason.

Luckily, they weren’t the only team struggling with such issues, as the USC Trojans had the same hope, even if after two quarters it looked like they were on track to make it happen.

Texas A&M is tied with USC at halftime, 7-7. Both offenses found the end zone once – Marcel Reed found Noah Thomas for the Aggies and Jayden Maiava hit Ja’Kobi Lane for the Trojans – but between two Reed interceptions and two late defensive penalties, the Aggies only hurt themselves.

On third down, Texas A&M was close to getting the ball back with just under three minutes to play and had a chance to take the lead, but instead a pass interference call reset the downs for the Trojans. From there, the Aggies forced a punt, but found USC’s punter to once again keep their offense on the field.

Michael Lantz failed to capitalize on the open possession for USC from 39 yards out, and the Aggies ran out of time to end the first half. They are ready to get the ball to record things.

A defensive battle will likely continue to tell the story in the second half. USC has already scored two takeaways but hasn’t been able to capitalize on them, and the Aggies haven’t taken care of the ball on drives when they could have taken the lead.

Doesn’t exactly tell the story of an exciting duel, but there are still 30 minutes left. The Aggies just hope they don’t have to subscribe to their “Staying in Vegas” act.

Join the community:

YYou can follow us for future coverage Subscribe to our newsletter here. Also, Be sure to like us on Facebook @AllAggiesOnSI & follow us on Twitter at @TAMUAggiesSI

MORE NEWS FROM THE TEXAS A&M AGGIES:

5-Star 2026 OT prepares for Texas A&M Aggies visit

Would zero deals have kept Johnny Manziel at Texas A&M longer?

An annual breakdown of Mike Evans’ football career

Texas A&M Aggies’ Myles Garrett reaches major career milestone

Texas A&M Aggies transfer DL commits to SEC program