USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 11/23/2024 10:30 PM EST

We have your USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins prop betting and game preview needs covered as the USC Trojans hit the road to face the UCLA Bruins.

USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: USC Trojans -190 (bet365) / UCLA Bruins +160 (bet365)
Best Spread Odds: 4.5 - USC Trojans -110 (BetMGM) / UCLA Bruins -110 (BetMGM)
Best Total Odds: 51.5 - Under -110 (bet365) / Over -110 (bet365)

Game Info

Date: 11/23/2024
Time: 10:30 PM EST
Location: Rose Bowl (Pasadena, CA)
TV: NBC

USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins Preview

The USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins are set to clash in a pivotal Big Ten matchup at the Rose Bowl, with both teams vying for bowl eligibility. The Trojans, under the guidance of head coach Lincoln Riley, have had a tumultuous season, currently sitting at a 5-5 record. They are coming off a crucial 28-20 victory over Nebraska, where quarterback Jayden Maiava showcased his potential in his first start, throwing for 259 yards and three touchdowns. Maiava's dual-threat capability has injected new life into the Trojans' offense, which has struggled with consistency throughout the season.

USC's offensive line, however, remains a concern, having shown only flashes of competence. The Trojans' success against Nebraska was partly due to the standout performance of running back Woody Marks, who rushed for 146 yards. Marks' ability to extend drives will be crucial against a UCLA defense that has been porous, particularly in pass coverage and finishing drives.

On the other side, the UCLA Bruins, led by first-year head coach DeShaun Foster, are in a do-or-die situation. With a 4-6 record, they must win their final two games to secure bowl eligibility. The Bruins have shown resilience, winning three of their last four games before a setback against Washington. Quarterback Ethan Garbers will need to overcome a USC defense that ranks well in explosive passing plays allowed, a challenge given UCLA's struggles in generating offensive momentum.

Discipline has been a significant issue for the Bruins, with penalties frequently stalling their drives. This lack of discipline could prove costly against a USC team that, despite its flaws, has shown the ability to capitalize on opponents' mistakes. The Bruins' defense, which ranks poorly in forcing contested catches and pass rush, will need to step up to contain Maiava and the Trojans' offense.

As both teams enter this high-stakes rivalry game, the pressure is on to deliver a performance that could define their seasons. The Trojans are looking to build on their recent success, while the Bruins are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive. With so much on the line, this matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter under the lights at the Rose Bowl.

USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins Pick: UCLA Bruins Moneyline

The upcoming clash between the USC Trojans and the UCLA Bruins is set to be a defining moment for both teams, but the edge leans towards the Bruins securing a victory at home. Despite their 4-6 record, the Bruins have shown resilience, winning three of their last four games before a setback against Washington. This recent form suggests a team that is finding its stride at a crucial juncture in the season. The Bruins are in a do-or-die situation, needing to win their final two games to achieve bowl eligibility, which adds an extra layer of motivation for the team.

UCLA's head coach, DeShaun Foster, has instilled a sense of urgency and focus in his squad, and the Bruins have demonstrated the ability to bounce back from adversity. Quarterback Ethan Garbers will be pivotal in this matchup, and while he faces a USC defense that ranks well in explosive passing plays allowed, the Bruins' offensive line will be keen to protect him and provide the platform for success. The Bruins' defense, although struggling in certain areas, will be determined to tighten up and capitalize on USC's inconsistencies, particularly in their offensive line.

USC, on the other hand, has had a tumultuous season under Lincoln Riley, with a 5-5 record and a team that has struggled with consistency. While Jayden Maiava's recent performance against Nebraska was promising, the Trojans' offensive line remains a significant concern, and their reliance on running back Woody Marks to extend drives could be challenged by a motivated UCLA defense. Additionally, the Trojans have shown vulnerability in capitalizing on opponents' mistakes, a factor that could be exploited by a disciplined Bruins team.

Moreover, the Bruins have the advantage of playing at the Rose Bowl, a venue where they will be eager to assert their dominance and secure a crucial win over their archrivals. The stakes are high, and with the added pressure of maintaining postseason hopes, UCLA is poised to rise to the occasion. The combination of home-field advantage, recent form, and the urgency of their situation makes the Bruins a compelling pick to emerge victorious in this high-stakes encounter.