Prediction, Preview, and Betting Lines for USC vs. UCLA

Even though it looked like USC would lose all season, they changed their quarterback, their defense got better, and they beat Nebraska 28–20. This could have saved a lot of things.

After beating UCLA this week and/or ending Notre Dame’s season next week, things look a little better.

Fresno State is having a rough season, so UCLA should be able to beat them next week. They need this win to stay in the running for a bowl game.

Last week’s loss to Washington was a setback for Deshaun Foster’s first year. A three-game winning streak helped pull the team out of a slump. Of course, if you beat USC, 2024 will be a success.

USC vs UCLA: How to Watch and Game Preview

Date: Saturday, November 23, 2024
Game Time: 10:30 pm ET
How To Watch: NBC
Venue: Rose Bowl, Pasadena, CA
Teams: UCLA (4-6), USC (5-5)

Why USC Will Win

It is being turned over again at UCLA.

The offense is not great either—the running game that shocked Iowa did not work against Washington—but it is fine when it is not messing up.

Five turnovers in the last two games are not helping a team that was already having a rough time. Turnovers were a big problem at the beginning of the season.

How did Jayden Maiava do in his first game for the Trojans? This quarterback used to be a star at UNLV. He completed 71% of his passes for 258 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. He also ran for a touchdown against Nebraska. He is good, but

Why UCLA Will Win

Ethan Garbers is rolling.

The UCLA quarterback hit 9-of-12 passes with two touchdowns in last year’s thriller over the Trojans, and he’s been rock steady this season with 200 yards or more in each of the last five games since getting hurt.

He has occasional issues with interceptions, but he’s been what the offense needs considering the running game is sputtering.

USC doesn’t have the pass rush to bother the veteran, the pass defense isn’t amazing, and Garbers should be able to spread it around if he gets time.

On the other side, the Bruin defense has been terrific against the run allowing 3.3 yards per carry, putting all the pressure on Maiava to work in a starring role. USC is 0-4 when the passing game doesn’t hit at least 67%, so …

USC vs UCLA: Who Will Win?

It is not the same kind of run for the big rivalry.

The lighting will be great, but it will be at night, so the beautiful LA sun will not shine on their great uniforms. As always, these two will put on a great show.

However, there will not be a battle. The defense will have to work hard, and turnovers will become very important. Maiava will do well, but he will mess up more often than Garbers.

With a 200-yard day from Garbers and some magic from the Iowa game, UCLA’s running game will be able to pull it off late.