Rutgers vs USC Predictions and Picks – October 25, 2024

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights and USC Trojans face off in a Big Ten matchup under the Friday night lights at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

This Week 9 game will see Rutgers looking to end a three-game losing streak, while USC aims to recover from recent defeats. Here’s a look at what to expect and betting insights for this prime-time game.

Game Preview

Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Rutgers started strong this season, going 4-0 with wins over teams like Washington and Virginia Tech. However, their fortunes shifted after suffering three consecutive losses to Nebraska, Wisconsin, and UCLA, where they fell in a high-scoring 35-32 homecoming game.

Despite injuries impacting key players, including guard Bryan Felter and linebacker Mohamed Toure, the Scarlet Knights remain competitive with a solid rushing attack led by Kyle Monangai who has amassed 845 yards and ten touchdowns​.

Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has shown flashes of playmaking ability, though Rutgers’ passing game has struggled with consistency. Rutgers’ defense, which is giving up an average of 22.3 points per game, will need to keep up with USC’s offensive speed to stay in contention​.

USC Trojans

The Trojans’ season has been marked by narrow losses and inconsistency. After strong showings early on, USC dropped three close games to Minnesota, Penn State, and most recently Maryland, where they squandered a 14-point lead.

Quarterback Miller Moss has been reliable, with 1,954 passing yards and 14 touchdowns, but turnovers and defensive lapses have kept USC from finishing games​.

USC’s offense, which ranks 22nd in the FBS for passing yards per game, is formidable but needs to avoid costly mistakes, especially given Rutgers’ defensive focus on pressuring quarterbacks.

Defensively, USC has struggled, allowing significant yardage both in the air and on the ground. However, playing at home could give USC the stability they need to capitalize on Rutgers’ recent struggles​.

Rutgers vs USC: Key Matchups to Watch

Kyle Monangai vs. USC Run Defense
Monangai’s rushing ability will test USC’s front line, which has been vulnerable against the run. His performance could keep Rutgers within striking distance.

Miller Moss vs. Rutgers’ Secondary
Moss’ arm will be crucial for USC, especially if Rutgers focuses on limiting their run game. The Scarlet Knights have allowed over 220 passing yards per game, which Moss could exploit if he avoids turnovers.

Special Teams and Turnovers
Both teams have been turnover-prone this season. Turnover margins and field position from special teams could shift the balance, especially in a game with two struggling defenses.

Rutgers vs USC: Predictions and Picks

Score Prediction: Given their recent losses but strong home performance history, USC has the upper hand. However, expect a close game if Rutgers can capitalize on USC’s defensive inconsistencies.

Over/Under: Under 51.5 points. With both teams showing defensive vulnerabilities, the total could still lean under given the likely conservative game plans.

Final Score: USC 30, Rutgers 13

Pick Against the Spread: USC -13.5

Betting Insights

Rutgers has covered the spread in one of their last five games as an underdog, while USC has covered in three consecutive home games.

Key Prop: Consider betting on Monangai’s rushing yards over, as USC has shown weakness against high-volume rushing offenses this season​

Rutgers vs USC Conclusion

This game offers an opportunity for both teams to end their losing streaks, with USC slightly favored due to home-field advantage and offensive depth.

Rutgers will need to lean on its run game and defensive stops to keep pace, but USC’s playmakers make them a strong pick to win by two scores.

This Friday night game will air on FOX at 11:00 p.m. ET, providing a key chance for both teams to improve in the competitive Big Ten.

Stay tuned for more college football predictions and betting insights as the season progresses, and don’t forget to check out Wagertalk.com for expert analysis and free picks.

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