No. 5 Notre Dame is set to face off against USC in their annual game this Saturday on CBS. This will be the 95th meeting between the two historic programs. The rivalry between Notre Dame and USC dates back to 1926, with the exception of the World War II years and the shortened 2020 season due to COVID-19.
Notre Dame has been on a winning streak, with nine consecutive victories since their loss to Northern Illinois in Week 2. A win against USC would likely secure an at-large berth for the Fighting Irish in the 12-team College Football Playoff. The team’s wins against notable opponents like Texas A&M, Louisville, Navy, and Army have bolstered their playoff chances. USC, on the other hand, has turned their season around with three wins in their last four games after a shaky start.
The upcoming matchup between Notre Dame and USC is crucial for both teams. Notre Dame has a clear path to the CFP if they can secure a win this weekend and improve to an 11-1 record. USC’s quarterback change to Jayden Maiava has injected new energy into their offense, and Maiava’s performance will be key to their success.
Notre Dame’s strong run game has been a driving force behind their successful season. The team has 37 rushing touchdowns this season, the most since 1991. Running back Jeremiyah Love and quarterback Riley Leonard have been instrumental in Notre Dame’s ground game, each contributing at least 13 rushing touchdowns.
In terms of predictions, Notre Dame is favored to win against USC. The Fighting Irish’s dominant run game and strong performance in recent games make them a formidable opponent. Although USC has shown improvement with Maiava at quarterback, their struggles in close games could be a deciding factor. Notre Dame is expected to cover the spread and solidify their position as a top CFP contender.
For those interested in sports betting, Caesars Sportsbook offers odds for the game. Additionally, sports enthusiasts can check out the latest Caesars promo code to get in on the action. SportsLine’s computer model predicts multiple upsets in Week 14 of college football, providing valuable insights for fans looking to make informed picks for the games.
