USC vs. UCLA Prediction and Live Odds: Battle for Los Angeles in Saturday Night Football
USC visits UCLA in a crucial crosstown rivalry matchup at the Rose Bowl, with kickoff set for 10:30 p.m. ET on NBC. The Trojans enter as 4.5-point road favorites.
Football player in white jersey
Game Overview
- USC (5-5, 3-5 Big Ten) vs UCLA (4-6, 3-5 Big Ten)
- Over/Under: 51.5 points
- USC implied win probability: 64.3%
- UCLA implied win probability: 40.7%
USC Analysis
- Averaging 438.1 yards and 30.3 points per game
- QB Jayden Maiava impressed last week with 259 yards, 3 TDs
- RB Woody Marks surpassed 1,000 rushing yards
- Defense allowing 364.7 yards and 22 points per game
- Vulnerable against pass (232.7 yards/game)
UCLA Analysis
- Offense improving: 320.6 yards, 18.8 points per game
- QB Ethan Garbers showing consistency with multiple TDs
- Strong run defense allowing only 100.6 yards/game
- Secondary struggling (245.7 passing yards allowed)
- Won three of last four games
Football players in NFL uniforms
Prediction and Best Bet Pick: UCLA +4.5 (-110)
Reasoning:
- UCLA's elite run defense matches well against USC's ground game
- Home field advantage at Rose Bowl
- Line movement from USC -7 to -4.5 indicates sharp money on UCLA
- UCLA's recent form suggests potential upset
- Bruins' defensive strength could force USC out of comfort zone
The Bruins' improving offense and stout run defense make them a strong value play as home underdogs in this rivalry matchup.
Related Articles
Top College Football Week 4 Betting Picks and Analysis
