Oregon is now favored by 2.5 points against an undefeated USC team in Los Angeles, an early line that just screams high stakes for Week 4’s Big Ten opener. FanDuel Sportsbook initially favored the Ducks last week, and after the Week 3 games played out on Saturday, that number has actually grown for the road team. This isn’t just another game, folks; this is a battle that could ignite the national title hopes for both squads and has huge recruiting implications in Southern California.
Ducks Blast Portland State While Trojans Survive a Scare
The Ducks certainly got back on track after blasting Portland State, 84-0, on Friday night. They were absolutely dominant, covering a massive 58.5-point spread for the first time this season. Dante Moore was slinging it in the first half, tossing four touchdowns before the backups got in, letting Dylan Raiola make a stellar debut in Eugene. But let’s be real, the competition ramps up significantly against the Trojans. USC, meanwhile, is still undefeated heading into this clash but they had a much closer call. They survived a 42-35 road win against Rutgers, a game that surprisingly bumped the total points line up one point to 61.5 for next Saturday’s matchup. Given what both defenses have shown so far this season, you just know these teams are going to light up the scoreboard.
Injuries Mounting and a Familiar Foe Awaits
Both teams are grappling with significant injuries that are absolutely worth monitoring this week, and they could definitely impact that spread. The Trojans are sweating on defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart, who hasn’t played yet this season, and freshman wideout Trent Mosley is also banged up. Oregon isn’t immune either; they played Friday without tight end Jamari Johnson, wideout Jeremiah McClellan, and corner Carl Williams IV, and all three enter the week with an unknown status. This adds a layer of uncertainty to what’s already a huge game. This isn’t Dan Lanning’s first rodeo against Lincoln Riley, either. Lanning is 2-0 against Riley since both took over their programs before the 2022 season, including a 42-27 victory last November. Both of those wins, though, came in Eugene. Can Lanning keep his undefeated streak alive against Riley on the road?
This is going to be a must-watch under the national spotlight. Oregon and USC are set to kick off at 4:30 p.m. PT next Saturday, live on NBC. It’s time to see if the Ducks can grab that marquee victory and solidify their standing, or if the undefeated Trojans can protect their home turf. Get ready!
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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