Time was a factor once they got inside the 3 yard line, but USC ran the clock down so there would be no time left for ND. USC was not in a hurry. Leihnart almost messed that up by trying to get in and not getting out of bounds, he got a lucky break.
Im sorry, but USC at the 3 with like 43 seconds left, Im using my timeouts. When have they not scored in a situation like that?
He showed confidence in his defense, but they just gave up a huge play, USC clearly had the momentum. A TO would have given his good Offense a chance with atleast 30 seconds left, more IMO.