Week 12 College Football Predictions: USC At UCLA

People often say that the mark of a good team is their ability to rebound quickly after a tough loss. While this argument is certainly valid, a good team should also be able to remain level-headed when coming off a major win. This is what the USC Trojans are going to have to do this weekend, as they are sure to still be on a high after upsetting #4 ranked Washington last weekend. It should be easy enough for the Trojans to remain focused for any number of reasons. They are still in the hunt for Pac-12 South division win, they have a top 10 ranking now very much in their sights, and they are going against one of their biggest rivals, the UCLA Bruins. These two teams don’t have a lot of love for one another, and the Trojans would love nothing more than to throw some more dirt on the coffin that has been the Bruins season so far. USC comes into this weekend match-up as an 11.5-point road online betting favorite.

In Depth Analysis On The Week 12 College Football Predictions: USC Trojans At UCLA Bruins

When: Saturday, November 19 at 10:30 PM EST
Where: Rose Bowl, Pasadena
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: Watch ESPN
NCAAF Odds: TBA

Why bet on the USC Trojans

There were some people who questioned coach Helton’s decision to bench QB Max Browne in favor of redshirt freshman Sam Darnold early in the season, but it has proven to be an inspired move. The young man has thrived in the starting role, and has led the USC Trojans to 6 straight wins. In fairness, a lot of the pressure has been taken off Darnold by the running game, which has been spectacular at times this season. It’s a balanced attack that is sure to give UCLA fits this weekend, and one that the Bruins simply cannot match should this thing get into a shootout. USC have enjoyed the favorite label this season, and are 5-1 ATS when they are in that role.

Why bet on the UCLA Bruins

It has been a season to forget for the 4-6 Bruins, and it certainly hasn’t helped that QB Josh Rosen has been limited due to a shoulder injury. The problems for UCLA run deeper than just a QB with a wounded wing, though, as they have been nothing short of dreadful when running the ball this season. Their 163 yards on the ground versus Oregon State last week was something of an aberration, as they have routinely failed to cross the 100-yard barrier all year, with 23 rushes for 1 yard being their worst showing versus Arizona State their worst outing. UCLA are 4-6 ATS this season, and are 2-2 as the underdog.

Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction

The last to meetings between these California rivals has seen the Trojans win by 1 and 19 points, respectively. I think we are looking at more of the same this time around, as USC just has too much to offer on offense, especially against a UCLA team that cannot run the football.

USC Trojans 40 UCLA Bruins 21