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USC–Michigan Preview: Trojans Slight Favorites as Riley Faces Coliseum Litmus Test

Analysts are split, with some backing Michigan for a physical edge against a vulnerable USC defense.

Overview

  • USC hosts Michigan in Week 7 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, with both teams 4-1 and FanDuel listing USC as a 2.5-point favorite.
  • A Trojans Wire roundtable casts the game as pivotal for Lincoln Riley’s standing after an Illinois loss and uneven conference showings.
  • USC’s defense drew scrutiny after conceding 500-plus yards to Illinois, including 328 passing yards and eight missed tackles, with secondary concerns heightened by Kamari Ramsey’s in-game exit.
  • Michigan leans on Justice Haynes and dual-threat quarterback Bryce Underwood and is expected to target slot matchups such as Semaj Morgan against backup corner DJ Harvey.
  • Michigan’s front ranks top 20 in sacks and top 10 in rushing defense, and FOX’s Joel Klatt is picking a Wolverines upset based on trench play and potential USC offensive line questions.