USC Game Preview: Oregon State Beavers

No. 20 USC Trojans (7-3, 4-3) at Oregon State Beavers (4-5, 3-3)

2009 Result:

Head Coach: Mike Riley (Year 10: 68-52)

Conference: Pacific-10

Stars:

Location: Corvallis, Oregon (Reser Stadium)

Time: 5:00 PM PDT

TV: 

Radio: KXSC (listen at kscr.org), 710AM

Spread: Oregon State (+3)

Matchup:

Saturday’s forecast calls for temperatures in the low 40’s with a high chance of rain or maybe even snow. Despite the conditions, Lane Kiffin said earlier in the week he believes his team is built for the cold weather. In essence, Kiffin has faith in his offensive line to create a power running game.

Offensively, the Trojans will likely look to run the ball heavily given the success last week and the weather forecast. Oregon State ranks 80th nationally stopping the run, allowing 169 yards per game. Ever since Lane Kiffin called the offensive line out for its uninspiring play against Oregon, they have stepped up beautifully and provided holes as well as protection for Matt Barkley. Marc Tyler will start at running back and likely get a lot of carries, although not as many as the 31 last week. Through the air, the Beavers rank 94th stopping the pass, allowing 239 yards per game. While USC might not throw a lot if its snowing, Kiffin won’t shy away from deep balls given the suspect secondary and the fact that Robert Woods continues to get healthier. Last year, USC didn’t have any problems moving the ball on Oregon State, and the unit has only gotten better. Even if the defense can’t stop Jacquizz Rodgers, USC should be able to match the Beavers score for score.

USC’s defensive game plan will likely center around stacking the box and forcing the Beavers to win the game through the air. Ever since the injury to star wide receiver James Rodgers, Oregon State’s offense has dropped off considerably. At the same time, sophomore quarterback Ryan Katz has regressed, throwing five touchdown passes to four interceptions in his last four games. The first year starter has completed passes at a decent percentage, but his confidence may be in the dumps after Mike Riley benched him for a series against Washington State to punish him for throwing an interception. While the passing game is shaky, the running game is phenomenal. Jacquizz Rodgers is a swift, shifty back that has always given USC trouble. Since he is so small, he is very hard to tackle and can run wild if the Trojans fail to rap up. ‘Quizz is averaging 4.7 yards per carry and has 13 touchdowns on the ground. Without James Rodgers, Oregon State’s offense is virtually one dimensional, but they have to be careful because that dimension can very well burn them.

Stat of the week:

Final Score Prediction: USC 42 – Oregon State 24. The Trojans have had trouble in Oregon recently, and that makes Saturday’s trap game even scarier.