Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 10/12/2024 3:30 PM EST

We have your Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Penn State Nittany Lions hit the road to face the USC Trojans.

Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Penn State Nittany Lions -148 (BetRivers) / USC Trojans +120 (BetRivers)
Best Spread Odds: 2.5 - Penn State Nittany Lions -121 (BetRivers) / 4.5 - USC Trojans -115 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 52.5 - Under -110 (FanDuel) / Over -110 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 10/12/2024
Time: 3:30 PM EST
Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
TV: CBS

Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans Preview

The Penn State Nittany Lions, ranked seventh nationally, are set to face the USC Trojans in a highly anticipated Big Ten clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Penn State enters this matchup with a perfect 5-0 record, having recently dispatched UCLA with a commanding 27-11 victory. The Nittany Lions have showcased a formidable defense, allowing just 11.4 points per game this season, and have been particularly dominant in the third quarter, outscoring opponents 45-0. Quarterback Drew Allar has been a model of efficiency, completing 70.8% of his passes for 237 yards and a touchdown against UCLA, while the defense has consistently stifled opposing offenses, holding UCLA to just 260 total yards.

USC, on the other hand, is looking to rebound from a disappointing 24-17 loss to Minnesota. The Trojans, now 3-2, have struggled on the road, particularly in the Big Ten, where they remain winless in the central time zone since 2011. USC's offense, led by quarterback Miller Moss, has shown flashes of brilliance but has been plagued by turnovers, including two interceptions against Minnesota. The Trojans' defense, missing key players like star linebacker Eric Gentry, has also faced challenges, allowing 193 rushing yards to the Gophers.

This game presents a critical test for both teams. Penn State aims to maintain its unbeaten streak and solidify its position as a College Football Playoff contender, while USC seeks to regain momentum and prove its mettle against a top-tier opponent. The Nittany Lions' balanced attack, even in the absence of star running back Nicholas Singleton, who missed the UCLA game due to injury, will look to exploit a USC defense that has shown vulnerability against the run. Meanwhile, the Trojans will need to tighten their defense and find consistency on offense to challenge Penn State's stout defensive unit.

Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans Pick: Penn State Nittany Lions Against the Spread

As the Penn State Nittany Lions prepare to face the USC Trojans, the odds favor the Nittany Lions to cover the spread. Penn State has been a model of consistency and dominance this season, boasting a perfect 5-0 record and a defense that has been nothing short of suffocating. Allowing just 11.4 points per game, the Nittany Lions have particularly excelled in the third quarter, outscoring opponents 45-0, a testament to their ability to make effective halftime adjustments and maintain pressure throughout the game.

Quarterback Drew Allar has been a key component of Penn State's success, demonstrating remarkable efficiency with a 70.8% completion rate against UCLA, where he threw for 237 yards and a touchdown. Even in the absence of star running back Nicholas Singleton, the Nittany Lions have managed to maintain a balanced offensive attack, with Kaytron Allen stepping up to carry the load. This adaptability and depth make Penn State a formidable opponent for any team.

In contrast, the USC Trojans are coming off a disappointing 24-17 loss to Minnesota, a game that highlighted their struggles on the road and in the Big Ten. The Trojans have yet to win a game in the central time zone since 2011, and their recent performance against Minnesota exposed vulnerabilities, particularly in their defense, which allowed 193 rushing yards. With key defensive players like Eric Gentry missing, USC's defense has been unable to consistently stop the run, a weakness that Penn State's offense is well-equipped to exploit.

Moreover, USC's offense, led by Miller Moss, has been plagued by turnovers, including two interceptions against Minnesota. This inconsistency, coupled with a defense that has shown susceptibility to the run, positions Penn State to capitalize on these weaknesses. Given the Nittany Lions' track record of covering the spread in 12 of their last 18 games and their current form, they are well-poised to extend their unbeaten streak and cover the spread against USC.

Penn State Nittany Lions at USC Trojans Top Player Prop Picks

Drew Allar Over 237.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

Drew Allar has been a model of efficiency for the Penn State Nittany Lions, completing 70.8% of his passes against UCLA for 237 yards and a touchdown. His ability to maintain composure and deliver accurate throws has been a cornerstone of Penn State's offensive success. With USC's defense showing vulnerabilities, particularly against the run, Allar is likely to find opportunities to exploit the secondary as well. The Trojans have struggled to contain opposing offenses, allowing significant yardage in recent games, which positions Allar to potentially exceed his passing yardage line.

Kaytron Allen Over 78.5 Rushing Yards Rushing Yards -110 (BetMGM)

Kaytron Allen stepped up admirably in the absence of star running back Nicholas Singleton, carrying the ball 21 times for 78 yards and a touchdown against UCLA. With USC's defense having allowed 193 rushing yards to Minnesota, Allen is poised to take advantage of a defense that has struggled to stop the run. His ability to move the chains and maintain a balanced offensive attack will be crucial for Penn State, and given USC's recent defensive performances, Allen is well-positioned to surpass his rushing yardage line.

Miller Moss Under 200.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

Miller Moss has shown flashes of potential for the USC Trojans, but his performance has been marred by inconsistency and turnovers, including two interceptions against Minnesota. Facing a Penn State defense that has been suffocating, allowing just 11.4 points per game and dominating in the third quarter, Moss is likely to face significant pressure. The Nittany Lions have consistently stifled opposing offenses, and with Moss's recent struggles, it is plausible that he will fall short of his passing yardage line against a formidable Penn State defense.