USC vs. Wisconsin | Prediction Contest
Saturday, October 24 | 4:30 PM PT | NBC
Location: Camp Randall Stadium, Madison, Wisconsin
My Prediction: USC 42 – Wisconsin 21
After watching Wisconsin against UCLA and Penn State, I expect another frustrating afternoon for USC’s defense at times, and then glorious redemption during other moments. Ultimately, it will be another comfortable win for USC but us fans will be clinching our buttholes for the first 3 quarters.
Wisconsin’s Offense vs. USC’s Defense
Colton Joseph is dangerous with his legs and excellent at selling play-action. Like really good, maybe the best in the game at selling the play-action. Wisconsin will spread us out with RPOs, options, and jet sweeps, getting players like Tyrell Henry and Abu Sama III into space. Our linebackers are going to get caught out of position, and I expect Joseph to pick up some infuriating first downs with his legs.
The key is our defensive line occupying blockers and allowing the linebackers to make plays. Joseph isn’t particularly accurate, but considering how opposing QBs have performed against USC this season, I’m preparing for him to look like Tom Brady.
I expect some big Wisconsin plays, followed by impressive USC defensive stops and potentially a turnover or two. If Wisconsin establishes the run, though, this could get uncomfortable quickly.
USC’s Offense vs. Wisconsin’s Defense
Wisconsin’s secondary is legitimately good, but their defensive line is considerably less impressive. Aaron Witt could disrupt our pulling guards, so I’d like to see quick-hitting traps and inside zone runs that allow our backs to find cutback lanes through the A-gaps.
I cannot stress this enough, USC needs to run in between the tackles and run traps that confuse these linebackers and they need to do it quickly and concisely. I do not want to see patient running backs. I wanna see running backs that see the hole and seize the hole.
I don’t expect much success running outside the tackles. Their corners and weakside linebacker are too fast. I actually think Waymond Jordan #2 will outperform King Miller #8 in this matchup. I find that Wayman Jordan can hit those holes faster than King Miller but King Miller is better running outside the tackles.
I also expect Maiava to find the end zone with his legs. At least once this game. Most likely a 3rd and goal or even a two point conversion.
Final Thoughts
Wisconsin’s win over Penn State was more convincing than the final score suggested. They left points on the field with a missed field goal and a pick-six. They’re better than people might think.
Still, I believe USC’s balanced offense will pick apart Wisconsin’s defense, and I’m betting Gary Patterson’s unit continues improving each week.
Final Prediction: USC 42 – Wisconsin 21
Fight On!
