The highly anticipated UCLA v. USC showdown resulted in an almost less than exciting interception and is-that-really-Kevin-Craft-out-there? filled game.

Allow me a few seconds to sum up what happened: UCLA’s defense carried the team. Quarterback Kevin Prince threw two interceptions that more than likely cost the game. Back-up quarterback Kevin Craft subbed in because Prince was reportedly having troubles with his shoulder. A few fumbles, turnovers and penalties later–a couple touchdowns for USC, one for UCLA.

In the 4th quarter with only 52 seconds left on the clock, after USC had taken a knee, UCLA head coach Rick Neuheisel called a timeout to stop the clock. When the clock started up again, USC quarterback Matt Barkley threw a deep ball into the end zone. And it was caught.

In my opinion, the most exciting part of the game happened almost immediately after the last touchdown of the game, belonging to the Trojans making the score (final) 28-7–the almost-brawl when what looked like the entire UCLA football team took the field, advancing on the Trojans. No helmets went flying, however, as police and officials prevented any of the players from making contact.

With the only event that had me on the edge of my seat halted, I regress back to the actual game.

It seems that many Bruins are angry that USC went for the “in your face” final touchdown. Let me make it clear that I hate the Trojans with the same blue-and-gold passion as any of you, but really, who’s to blame?

This reminded me of the New England Patriots v. Tennessee Titans game this year, a staggering 59-0 win for the Patriots that resulted in anchors, players, coaches and our mothers throwing around the phrase “unsportsmanlike conduct.” And I entirely disagree.

The Trojans took a knee–they were done until Neuheisel cheekily called for the timeout. When you call for a timeout with 52 seconds left in the game, you are saying nothing other than “let’s keep playing.” This doesn’t mean “let’s keep playing, but you should replace all your players with third-stringers so we can score.” USC did what they were supposed to–they played football and, unfortunately, scored another touchdown.

But that’s what college football is about, isn’t it? This isn’t Teeball where everyone is equal and no one keeps score. If you’re going to suit up and step foot on the field, then stand your ground, play with everything you’ve got and accept the consequences of your actions if you make a mistake.