Game Details
- Matchup: UCLA Bruins at #19 USC Trojans
- Date: Friday, November 29
- Time: 7:30 PM EST
- Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA
- TV: NBC
- Betting Line: USC -21.5, Over/Under 58.5
Game Preview
The battle for Los Angeles adds a new chapter as the UCLA Bruins travel to the Coliseum to take on the #19 USC Trojans for the coveted Victory Bell. For the first time, this historic rivalry matchup will be played under the banner of the Big Ten Conference, adding a new layer of intrigue to the cross-town showdown.
USC enters as a heavy favorite, armed with one of the most productive offenses in the country. The Trojans are looking to cap off a strong season with a dominant win over their rivals, while the Bruins aim to play the role of ultimate spoiler and pull off a monumental upset.
USC Trojans Analysis
The Trojans have been an offensive juggernaut this season. According to recent stats, USC ranks 8th in the nation in total offense, averaging an explosive 479.2 yards per game, including 301 yards through the air. This high-powered attack is the primary reason they are favored by more than three touchdowns in this rivalry contest.
However, the Trojans are not without their concerns. The offensive line, crucial to protecting the quarterback and establishing the run, could be missing a key piece. A report from early November indicated that season-opening starting center Kilian O’Connor remains questionable with an injury. His potential absence could be a factor for a UCLA defensive front looking for any possible advantage.
UCLA Bruins Analysis
The Bruins enter this game as massive underdogs, tasked with slowing down their rival’s elite offense. UCLA’s path to an upset hinges on its defense creating pressure and forcing turnovers to keep the game close.
UCLA’s depth has been tested this season, with several players dealing with injuries. Reports from earlier in the season noted that players like QB Karson Gordon and offensive linemen Jaylan Jeffers and K.D. Arnold were lost for the year. Other key contributors, including wide receiver Rico Flores, have also appeared on injury reports throughout the campaign. To keep pace with the Trojans, the Bruins will need their available playmakers to step up and execute a near-flawless game plan.
Prediction
A 21.5-point spread is massive for a rivalry game, where emotions often keep the score closer than expected. USC clearly has the superior firepower and should win the game outright. The Trojans’ offense is built to score quickly and often, which puts immense pressure on the Bruins to keep up.
However, the questionable status of USC’s starting center and the unpredictable nature of the “Battle for L.A.” make laying that many points risky. UCLA could find just enough success against a potentially vulnerable interior offensive line to generate a few key stops or turnovers. Expect USC to win, but for the Bruins to score just enough to secure a backdoor cover in a high-scoring affair.
The Pick: UCLA +21.5
Over/Under: Over 58.5
Sources:
UCLA Bruins Injuries 2025-2026 – Updated NCAAF Injury Report
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