By Darin 
It’s a storyline that belongs in a movie: a star quarterback, weakened and feverish, fighting a debilitating illness just to step onto the field for the biggest game of the year. On November 19, 1988, that’s exactly what USC’s Rodney Peete did against crosstown rival, No. 6 UCLA, led by future NFL Hall of Famer Troy Aikman. The stakes? A trip to the Rose Bowl. The condition? Peete was battling a severe case of the measles. This wasn’t just a football game; it was a legendary display of grit known as “Peete’s Flu Game.”
The Epic Showdown
The atmosphere in Pasadena (where the game was played, as UCLA was the home team) was electric. Both teams were highly ranked, with No. 2 USC entering as the favorite. All eyes were on the duel between the two star quarterbacks.
UCLA’s Troy Aikman delivered an incredible performance, throwing for 317 yards and two touchdowns. But even his statistical brilliance couldn’t overcome the sheer determination of the Trojans and their ailing leader. Peete, despite being visibly drained, commanded the USC offense with remarkable efficiency, tossing for 189 yards.
The true difference-maker, however, was the USC running game. Running back Aaron Emanuel steamrolled the Bruins’ defense, rushing for 133 crucial yards and punching in two touchdowns. His powerhouse running game took the pressure off Peete, allowing him to manage the game effectively and capitalize when needed.
A Legendary Victory
Ultimately, the Trojans’ offense proved too much for the Bruins’ defense. No. 2 USC triumphed over No. 6 UCLA with a final score of 31-22.
Rodney Peete lead Trojans 1988 20 Nov 1988, Sun The San Bernardino County Sun (San Bernardino, California) Newspapers.com
The victory cemented USC’s place in the Rose Bowl and became an instant classic in the storied rivalry. It wasn’t just the win, but how it was achieved, that has made this game endure in college football lore. Rodney Peete’s gritty performance remains a testament to leadership and heart under unimaginable pressure. He proved that sometimes, the greatest stat line is simply willing your team to victory, regardless of the odds—or the illness.
This game is more than a historical box score; it’s a chapter in the rivalry that defines what college football heroes are made of.