The USC Trojans travel to face Indiana in a pivotal Big Ten matchup this week, looking to build on their recent momentum.
USC enters the contest with a 7-2 record, while the Hoosiers hold an 8-1 standing, “according to ClutchPoints.”
This game marks only the fifth meeting between the two programs, with USC holding a 4-0 historical advantage over their opponents.
However, the teams have not faced one another since 1982, making this a rare encounter for both squads, as reported by ClutchPoints.
USC enters the game as an 8.5-point underdog, according to “odds provided by DraftKings.”
The Trojans are coming off a 30-18 victory over Ohio State, a win that helped get their season back on track after a challenging loss to Wisconsin, per “ClutchPoints reporting.”
Indiana has navigated a difficult path to eight wins, including narrow victories over Northwestern and Nebraska, as well as recent overtime wins against Michigan and Minnesota, “noted by local outlets.”
The Hoosiers will be without running back Turbo Richard, placing additional pressure on Lee Beebe Jr. to lead the ground game.
Defensively, Indiana remains a challenge, ranking tenth in the nation in sack rate, led by defensive lineman Tobi Osunsanmi.
USC must contend with these defensive fronts while seeking to exploit Indiana’s recent offensive inconsistencies.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava will lead the USC offense, aiming to overcome a tough Indiana defense that has been effective at limiting opponents.
The betting trends suggest a potentially low-scoring affair, with the under hitting in four straight games for USC.
While Indiana has struggled against the spread at home this season, both teams are coming off bye weeks and are looking to reassert their dominance in the conference.
Analysts suggest the best play for the matchup involves focusing on the total, as both defenses have shown significant improvement in recent weeks, according to the outlets.
The final prediction from experts favors USC to cover the spread in what is expected to be a competitive defensive struggle.