Tendencies from Georgia Southern should play into USC's hands

The Clay Helton Bowl is of immense interest to USC fans. For a moment, though, it is important to set aside the feelings regarding the tenure of the former Trojan HC and to instead look a little more into the actual Xs and Os. Although there is only a one-game sample size to go off, there are already some patterns emerging regarding the Georgia Southern team.

When thinking back to coach Helton's time at USC, many of the criticisms that were present then showed up Week 1 for the Eagles.

Granted, Georgia Southern could conceivably show a completely renewed effort against USC compared to what was witnessed in the 42-14 loss to Fresno State. Most likely, however, the same concerns that were on display from the Bears will be there for the Trojans to take advantage of.

For one, on defense, coach Helton's team gives up too many yards on the ground too easily, and their secondary plays with a soft cushion. When combining both of these aspects, the Trojan offense should be able to have its way in the passing game and in the running attack.

It is one thing for corners to not press up on receivers, but giving Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane too much space right off the bat is simply asking for trouble.

When then considering how well the offensive line did in creating a push and lanes for Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders, it could end up being another high-scoring day for USC at the Coliseum against the former Trojan head coach.

Potential forecasting for USC defense

Offensively, the Trojans need to realistically sell out against the run. Last week, OJ Arnold and David Mbadinga each averaged around 5.0 yards per attempt. Although the Eagles only gave them the ball for 13 carries, that likely had more to do with the lopsided scoreline.

More importantly, while JC French IV went for a decent 17 of 28 on passing attempts, he looked uncomfortable in the pocket throughout the game and was somewhat fortunate to only have a single interception on the day.

The ability of the Trojan pass rushers to get home and the skill level of the USC secondary could very easily end up resulting in multiple turnovers from the Eagles' QB at the Coliseum.