College Football

Minnesota vs USC Prediction 10-5-24 College Football Picks

USC Trojans (3-1) vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-3)
October 5, 2024 7:30 pm EDT
The Line: Minnesota Golden Gophers +8.5; Over/Under: +50.5
(Get latest betting odds)

In this article, we will formulate a Minnesota vs USC prediction for this College Football Week 6 game on Saturday, September 5th, at Huntington Bank Stadium.  Let’s take a look at a Minnesota Golden Gophers vs USC Trojans pick. 

How Does Minnesota Bounce Back?

The big question for Minnesota is how do they bounce back after their last game against Michigan. Minnesota recovered an onside kick and looked like they were going to drive down to tie up the game or win it, but a penalty was called that the Big Ten later admitted was wrong and they ended up losing 27-24. Max Bosmer completed 27 of his 40 passses for 258 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Darius Taylor also finished with 13 carries for 36 yards and two touchdowns. In this game, the Gophers are going to need to get the offense out to a fast start. 

Minnesota on the season is averaging 26 points while their defense is giving up 15.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 88th in the league while the defense is ranked 22nd. Bosmer is going to have a big game here early, and PJ Fleck needs to allow him to throw the ball. 

Why Minnesota Will Beat USC

  • The home team has won each of USC’s last three games.
  • USC has failed to cover the spread in seven of its last eight road games against non-AP-ranked teams.
  • Minnesota has covered the spread in three of its last four games.
  • Minnesota has won the first half in three of its last four games against conference opponents at Huntington Bank Stadium.

USC Bounced Back

Two games ago against Michigan, USC couldn’t get the job done and they ended up losing 27-24. In the last game against Wisconsin at halftime they were down, and they looked like they were in trouble. In the second half they outscored Wisconsin 28-0 and they ended up cruising to the victory. Miller Moss completed 30 of his 45 passes for 308 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. USC on the season is averaging 34.3 points while their defense is giving up 17 points per game. The offense is ranked 38th in the league while the defense is ranked 30th in the league. 

Minnesota vs USC Prediction

I liked Minnesota last weekend against Michigan and I like them again here. Fleck seems to finally trust Bosmer especially with the way he looked against Michigan. I don’t trust this USC defense, and this Minnesota offense is going to find plenty of success scoring here. Look for the Gophers to run up the score here, and that will be the difference here as Minnesota is going to cover the spread. Don’t be shocked if Minnesota wins this game outright. 

Shane Mickle's Free Pick: Minnesota +8.5

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Shane Mickle

Sports is about all Shane knows in this life! He has a passion for sports and writing, which makes working for Sportschatplace a perfect job for him! If you find him cheering for a team it's usually a Minnesota team, or the Kansas Jayhawks!

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