USC should run up a big number against Louisiana in final tune-up before Big Ten season begins

The USC Trojans are set to host Louisiana on Saturday in what promises to be an exciting matchup, marking the final non-conference game of the season.

USC has dominated their non-conference schedule thus far, which comes as no surprise given the team’s impressive home record under Lincoln Riley. That dominance is expected to continue this weekend as the Trojans close out their three-game season-opening homestand against Louisiana.

The Trojans enter this matchup as heavy favorites, and while the oddsmakers are confident, the actual talent gap may be even wider than in the team's first two games. Expect USC to cruise to an early lead, likely putting the game out of reach by halftime and allowing the starters to rest before the final whistle.

USC's young talent and depth will be on display against Louisiana

The most compelling aspect of this matchup will be tracking snap counts to see how the coaching staff distributes playing time across the roster. This game serves as a critical third data point in identifying which players will emerge as steady contributors for the remainder of the season. With the marquee matchup against Oregon two weeks away, it is paramount that the staff solidifies their rotation and gains a clear understanding of exactly who will be relied upon moving forward.

"If we get in a situation like we have the last few weeks where we feel like the game's in hand, then our priority right now is developing our roster. And so we go into each game with an idea that if it, you know, does play out like that, you know, what we're going to do," Lincoln Riley said

Quarterback Jayden Maiava has been off to a blistering start and is firmly in the early conversation for Heisman Trophy consideration. I anticipate he will make quick work of the Louisiana defense on Saturday, further cementing his momentum as the season progresses.

The starting defense has yet to concede a touchdown, having surrendered only a single field goal against San Jose State in Week 0. I expect that defensive dominance to continue this weekend, as this unit continues to display a renewed sense of purpose and physicality under the guidance of Gary Patterson.

The Trojans will win this matchup. The only question is by how much.

USC 48, Louisiana 13

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