Will USC Be Punished for 'Unfair Tactics' Rule After QB's Fake Punt in Viral Video?

No. 19 USC pulled off an impressive ruse in Friday night's 38-17 win over Northwestern, but it sounds like the Trojans are in some hot water.

During the second quarter of the game with the score tied 7-7, USC executed a fake punt by inserting third-string quarterback Sam Huard to throw the pass. Huard was wearing punter Sam Johnson's No. 80, which even fooled the Fox broadcast:

However, the Big Ten released a statement on Sunday announcing that the Trojans should have been assessed a 15-yard penalty for violating a rule regarded as "Unfair Tactics." With Huard identifying himself as a punter, he should not have been permitted to wear the same number as Johnson in the game.

While USC wasn't penalized during the game, the Big Ten left the door open for future discipline, stating that it will "continue to review the situation with both institutions."

After improving to 7-2, the Trojans will try to earn their third straight win when they host No. 20 Iowa (6-3) on Saturday.