USC Trojans vs. Illinois Fighting Illini predictions

The USC Trojans bring their perfect 4–0 record on the road this week for their first conference clash against a ranked opponent in the Illinois Fighting Illini.

The matchup in Champaign, IL, marks the inaugural Big Ten meeting between the two programs. Illinois enters the game looking to rebound after a tough loss to Indiana, eager to wash away the sour taste from last week’s setback. Meanwhile, USC faces its first ranked test of the season and arguably its biggest challenge yet.

Can the Trojans stay unbeaten on the road in a hostile environment, or will the Illini seize the chance to make a statement at home?

The Reign of Troy team breaks down the matchup and offers their predictions for Saturday’s Big Noon Kickoff showdown.

Nicholas Burmood, contributor

There’s been plenty of buildup for this matchup since the offseason, and for good reason. From the start, this game has been circled as a measuring stick for what USC can hope to achieve in 2025.

The narrative has shifted slightly in recent weeks. Illinois enters licking its wounds after a tough loss to Indiana, while USC has impressed with its balance by dominating opponents through a ferocious pass rush and an increasingly steady ground game. It’s rare to see the Trojans as a road favorite in Big Ten country, but here they are.

That said, this is a good moment to remind readers: nobody is perfect. The USC offense isn’t flawless. The defense and special teams still have gaps. Penalty discipline remains a glaring issue. But the fact remains that through four weeks, the Trojans themselves are perfect. They’re unbeaten, carrying a 4–0 record that includes two Big Ten victories, one away from home.

The formula this week is clear. USC must stay on schedule. Champaign will be loud; that’s the kind of attention USC always commands. But if the Trojans remain healthy, stay disciplined, and continue to build on what they’ve already established with just a touch of improvement in key areas they can absolutely win this football game.

Physicality will be the key. Illinois would love nothing more than to keep the ball away from USC’s offense. The Trojans don’t need to be perfect. They need to be efficient. If they manage that, their perfect season may very well stay intact.

Prediction: USC 38, Illinois 30

Gabriel Esparza, editor

This was supposed to be a marquee matchup. While it is still a game that could potentially go either way, Illinois simply has not been as good as most believed they would be heading into the year.

To this point, USC is playing better.

The Fighting Illini are coming off a bad loss to Indiana. There could be a bounce-back element. Even if the hosts play with a renewed sense of spirit, the Trojans are playing better overall across all facets of the phases.

Prediction: USC 35, Illinois 20