Rutgers (4-3, 1-3 in Big Ten) is set to face Southern California (3-4, 1-4) on Friday at 11 p.m. ET, airing on FOX. The current betting odds from BetMGM favor USC by 14 points. This matchup marks the inaugural meeting between the two teams.
In terms of significance, Fox had anticipated a compelling follow-up to the initial game of a potential Yankees-Dodgers World Series by pairing it with a noteworthy college football clash. While the professional teams lived up to expectations, the matchup between the Scarlet Knights and Trojans has not shaped up as a battle of excitement, particularly as both teams are currently struggling. USC is enduring a tough stretch, having lost three consecutive games and four out of their last five, despite holding leads in the fourth quarter of each of those contests. Similarly, Rutgers has also experienced a downturn, suffering through a three-game losing streak, recently allowing UCLA’s underwhelming offense to shine in a narrow 35-32 defeat at home.
A crucial matchup to watch will be Rutgers running back Kyle Monangai against USC’s defensive front. Monangai currently ranks ninth in the FBS with 845 rushing yards and has crossed the goal line ten times this season. The seasoned fifth-year player demonstrated his capabilities against UCLA, rushing for 106 yards and three touchdowns. He will now challenge a Trojans unit that is grappling with injury woes. The interior defensive linemen, Nate Clifton and Gavin Meyer, both transfer portal additions, will face a stern test against Monangai’s resolute running style.
For Rutgers, quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis made significant plays in the recent game against UCLA, completing 18 out of 30 passes for a total of 287 yards. However, his interception in the fourth quarter proved to be detrimental. The Minnesota transfer could find opportunities in the air, particularly if USC safety Kamari Ramsey is unable to participate or is limited due to injuries. On the other side, for USC, wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane showcased his potential with a stunning one-handed touchdown catch against Maryland, although his inconsistency has been a concern, as evidenced by his four receptions for 51 yards. The Trojans’ offense is in dire need of a reliable playmaker, and Lane possesses the skills to fulfill that role.
In terms of statistics, USC quarterback Miller Moss is averaging 6.9 yards per pass attempt, placing him jointly for 12th in the Big Ten alongside Kaliakmanis and Minnesota’s Max Brosmer. The Trojans had previously boasted one of the most dynamic passing offenses in the nation during head coach Lincoln Riley’s first two seasons. Additionally, this marks Rutgers’ third visit to California; they previously faced California in 1999, losing 21-7, and were edged out by Fresno State 52-51 in overtime back in 2013.