USC Freshman Bowman Makes 70-Yard Catch

Five-star freshman tight end Mark Bowman set up a USC touchdown with a long reception against Ohio State.

Updated on Nov. 1, 2026 in Football

USC freshman tight end Mark Bowman made a 70-yard reception from quarterback Jayden Maiava in the third quarter against Ohio State. The catch set up a 1-yard touchdown run by King Miller that gave USC a 27-9 lead.

Why it matters

The play highlights the expanded role of a freshman tight end in USC's offense during a marquee matchup. Bowman had been sidelined for USC's last three games with a hamstring injury before returning.

Bowman entered the game with 21 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns this season, and his 70-yard reception was the longest play cited in the report. The extraction does not state the final score or whether his hamstring injury will limit him in upcoming games.

The players

Mark Bowman

A five-star freshman tight end from Mater Dei High School in Santa Clara, California, Bowman has emerged as a notable contributor for USC this season.

Jayden Maiava

USC's starting quarterback who threw the pass to Bowman that set up the touchdown.

King Miller

USC running back who scored the 1-yard touchdown run after Bowman's reception.

The details

Bowman caught the pass in zone coverage and hurdled Ohio State defensive back Jaylen McClain, then ran through tackle attempts by Earl Little Jr. and Dominick Kelly before going out of bounds. He also threw a shoulder into linebacker Riley Pettijohn during the play.

Saturday, October 31, 2026: USC defeats Ohio State with Bowman's 70-yard reception.
Third quarter: Bowman's reception gives USC a 27-9 lead.

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Season Trajectory

Bowman's long catch against a major opponent adds a young pass-catcher to USC's offensive picture as the season progresses. The play gives Ohio State's defense a new route-running threat to account for in the rest of the schedule.

Bowman's availability and role in the passing game become a factor for fantasy managers tracking USC tight ends. His two touchdowns and 204 receiving yards entering the game give him a measurable profile for roster decisions.

The takeaway

Young players who earn trust quickly can change a college offense's options in a single play. Watching how USC uses Bowman after his injury absence will show how much the coaching staff is willing to rely on him.