How USC Can Upset Oregon: 5 Keys To Victory

5. Lincoln Riley Magic

USC Head Coach Lincoln Riley has not often faced adversity as a head coach. For the first time at USC though, his Trojans are not in the Top 25 and are facing criticism from all sides. Lincoln Riley is capable of working magic on offense, as evidenced by his brilliantly designed flea-flicker last week. He'll need to steal some points with innovative offense to keep the Trojans in the game.

2. Limit Damage on the Ground

Washington ran for more than 300 yards and USC is surrendering nearly 200 yards a game this season. The Ducks have top running back Bucky Irving and are averaging 191.9 rushing yards per game. USC needs to do a better job getting off blocks and filling run gaps to have any chance of slowing down the Ducks.

3. Superman Has to Show Up

For USC to pull off the upset in Eugene, Caleb Williams cannot just play well. He'll need to be spectacular. Oregon gives up 223.6 yards per game and the Ducks secondary can be had but Williams will have to play his best game of the season to give the Trojans a shot.

4. Win on Third Down

The Oregon Ducks are exceptional on third down. They are second in the country at converting on third down at 56.12%. USC is 40th on offense and 71st on defense on third down. The Trojans will need to be much better on Saturday.

5. Lincoln Riley Magic

USC Head Coach Lincoln Riley has not often faced adversity as a head coach. For the first time at USC though, his Trojans are not in the Top 25 and are facing criticism from all sides. Lincoln Riley is capable of working magic on offense, as evidenced by his brilliantly designed flea-flicker last week. He'll need to steal some points with innovative offense to keep the Trojans in the game.