USC Alums Shine (and Stumble) in NFL Week 16: Darnold, Caleb Williams Lead the Charge
It was a statement week for USC quarterbacks in the NFL - and not just in the box score. Two former Trojans, Sam Darnold and Caleb Williams, delivered in crunch time and helped position their teams for deep playoff pushes.
While some of USC’s other offensive alumni had quieter outings, defenders like Tuli Tuipulotu and Calen Bullock continued to build on breakout seasons. Let’s dive into how each Trojan fared in Week 16.
Sam Darnold: Clutch When It Counted
In a game that looked like it was slipping away, Sam Darnold flipped the script in the fourth quarter. Down 30-14, Darnold rallied his team back into the fight, matching Matthew Stafford throw-for-throw. After a pivotal punt return touchdown shifted momentum, Darnold seized the moment - tying the game late in regulation and then answering Stafford’s overtime score with a touchdown of his own, followed by a gutsy 2-point conversion to seal the win.
This was the kind of performance that reminds you why Darnold was once a top draft pick. When he’s in rhythm and confident, he can elevate an entire offense. This win wasn’t just a comeback - it was a confidence jolt for both Darnold and his team as they eye the postseason.
Leonard Williams: Quiet Stats, Loud Impact
The box score may only show four tackles for Leonard Williams on Thursday night, but don’t be fooled - his presence was felt. Whether he’s collapsing pockets or drawing double teams, Williams continues to be a disruptive force in the trenches. It’s this kind of steady, veteran impact that has him firmly in the Pro Bowl conversation and among the league’s elite defensive tackles.
Caleb Williams: The Clutch Gene is Real
If you’re still wondering whether Caleb Williams is “that guy,” Week 16 should put your doubts to rest. Down late in a rivalry game against the Packers, Williams once again showed why he’s already earned the trust of his locker room - and the fear of opposing defenses. He threw for 250 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner in overtime.
It wasn’t just the numbers - it was when he delivered. The fourth quarter and overtime belonged to Caleb.
In a game the Bears almost certainly lose in recent years, Williams made sure they walked out with a win. That’s the kind of quarterback you build a franchise around.
Tuli Tuipulotu: Quietly Dominating
Another week, another sack for Tuli Tuipulotu. He added four tackles and a sack against the Cowboys, bringing his total to five sacks over the last four games. That kind of production down the stretch is exactly why he earned his first Pro Bowl nod this season.
Tuipulotu came into the year with breakout potential, and he’s more than delivered - he’s exceeded expectations. With two games left, don’t be surprised if he tacks on another sack or two before the regular season wraps.
Jordan Addison: A Victim of QB Instability
It’s been a frustrating stretch for Jordan Addison, and Week 16 didn’t offer much relief. With Minnesota’s quarterback carousel continuing, Addison was limited to just two catches for 26 yards. He’s sitting at 602 receiving yards on the season - not the leap many expected in Year 2.
The talent is still there, but without consistent quarterback play, Addison’s ceiling is being capped. He’ll have two more games to try and finish the season on a high note.
Talanoa Hufanga: Tough Day Against a Hot Offense
Hufanga and the Broncos’ defense ran into a buzzsaw in the Jaguars. Trevor Lawrence carved them up for 279 yards and three touchdowns, and Hufanga was limited to four tackles and a pass deflection.
It’s been an up-and-down season for Hufanga, and this game was one of the tougher outings. Still, his playmaking instincts remain a key part of Denver’s defensive identity.
Drake London: Rusty Return
After missing three games, Drake London returned to the field but looked like a player still knocking off the rust. He was targeted eight times but only hauled in three catches for 27 yards. It wasn’t the return fans were hoping for, especially after a dominant three-game stretch earlier in the year.
London sits at 837 yards on the season, and with two games left, he’s still within striking distance of the 1,000-yard mark. But he’ll need to find his rhythm quickly.
Calen Bullock: Rising Star in Houston
Bullock continues to be one of the brightest young defenders in the league. In a pivotal game for the Texans, the rookie safety led the defense with nine total tackles, including three solo stops. His range and instincts are already making a difference in Houston’s playoff push.
The Texans’ defense has been the backbone of their success, and Bullock’s emergence is a big reason why. He’s becoming a name to watch - not just among Trojans in the NFL, but league-wide.
Isaiah Pola-Mao: Steady and Reliable
Pola-Mao continues to be a rock for the Raiders’ defense. He racked up six tackles in Week 16, pushing his season total to 85. With two games left, he’s on pace to hit the 100-tackle mark - a testament to his consistency and durability.
He’s not flashy, but Pola-Mao is the kind of dependable defender every team needs. Week after week, he shows up and makes plays.
Amon-Ra St. Brown: Even the Quiet Games Matter
After a monster performance the previous week, Amon-Ra St. Brown had a more modest outing - four catches for 54 yards.
But even when the stat line isn’t explosive, St. Brown’s impact is undeniable.
His presence opens up opportunities for everyone else in the offense.
And despite the quieter game, St. Brown was still named to the Pro Bowl this week. He’s currently fifth in receiving yards and second in receiving touchdowns - elite company for one of the NFL’s most consistent wideouts.
Michael Pittman Jr.: Struggling to Connect
It’s been a rough adjustment for Michael Pittman Jr. since Philip Rivers returned to the fold. While fellow receivers Alec Pierce and Josh Downs found success, Pittman was limited to just four catches for 32 yards.
With a rookie quarterback possibly taking over and two tough matchups ahead, it’s hard to see Pittman finishing the season with a flourish. But he’s still the top target in that offense - and that means the potential for a bounce-back is always there.
Final Takeaway
Week 16 was a mixed bag for USC alumni in the NFL - but the highs were really high. Darnold and Caleb Williams showed poise and playmaking when it mattered most, while defenders like Tuipulotu and Bullock continued to shine. There were some quieter performances, sure, but the Trojan presence across the league remains strong - and in some cases, it's just getting started.