Rutgers Scarlet Knights (4-3) vs. USC Trojans (3-4)
October 25, 2024 11:00 pm EDT
The Line: USC Trojans -14.5; Over/Under: 51.5
(Get latest betting odds)
In this article, we will formulate a USC vs Rutgers Prediction for this College Football Week 9 game on Friday, October 25th, at LA Memorial Coliseum. Let’s take a look at a USC Trojans vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights pick.
USC is In Trouble
USC at one point had a 3-1 record and looked to be heading for a comfortable season, but since that point, they have lost three games in a row. In the last game against Maryland, they were up 21-7 at the half and looked like they were well on their way to another victory. In the second half though they were outscored 22-7 and that led to the defeat. Miller Moss deserved better as he completed 34 of his 50 passes for 336 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. On the season, USC is averaging 30.29 points, while their defense is giving up 22 points per game. USC is going to need the offense to get out to a fast start and really try to put the pressure on.
Rutgers Back to Their Old Ways
Rutgers is back to their old ways, and they are really struggling heading into this game. Rutgers has lost three games in a row, and the last two have been very concerning. Two games ago against Wisconsin, they were blown out 42-7 and in the last game against UCLA, they were at home but ended up losing 35-32. The defense gave up 14 points in the second quarter and that was the difference. Athan Kaliakmanis completed 18 of his 30 passes for 287 yards, zero touchdowns, and one interception. Kyle Mongangai did have another strong game, finishing with 19 carries for 106 yards and three touchdowns. Rutgers will face Minnesota, Maryland, and Illinois following this game.
Rutgers on the season is averaging 26.6 points, while their defense is giving up 22.9 points per game. In this game, Rutgers is going to need the defense to be good to really try to put the pressure on.
Matchup/League Facts
- USC ranks T21st among FBS teams for 1st downs this season (161).
- USC ranks 22nd among FBS teams for passing yards per game this season (288.6).
- Rutgers ranks 116th among FBS teams for red zone percentage this season (75.8).
- Rutgers ranks 25th among FBS teams for Q4 points per game this season (9.1).
USC vs Rutgers Prediction
Sure, USC has struggled heading into this game, but Rutgers again appears to be a fraud. They lost to UCLA, a team that is one of the worst in FBS, and they are going to struggle again here. I am not sold Rutgers has the right guy at quarterback, and they are going to really struggle here. USC is going to have another strong game from Moss, and that will be the difference here, as USC is going to blow them out. Back USC against the spread.
