USC Trojans Fall Short Again: Betting Insights on USC’s Struggles

The USC Trojans, once considered a top contender for the College Football Playoff, have faced a series of heartbreaking fourth-quarter collapses that now leave them with a 3-4 record. A Week 8 29-28 loss to the Maryland Terrapins has highlighted ongoing issues for the Trojans, particularly their inability to close out games. For those analyzing betting lines and futures on USC, this recurring pattern has become a critical factor to consider.

Carson Beck’s NFL Draft Prospects Amid Georgia’s Struggles

USC’s Fourth-Quarter Woes

USC’s loss to Maryland is just the latest example of their fourth-quarter inefficiency. After controlling much of the game, the Trojans allowed 15 unanswered points in the final quarter, surrendering what seemed like a secure lead. This wasn’t an isolated incident—USC has repeatedly faltered in the final stretch, with similar collapses against Penn State, Minnesota, and Michigan. For bettors, this trend raises red flags about USC’s ability to cover spreads late in games.

USC has consistently struggled to maintain leads in the fourth quarter, making them a risky pick in live betting situations, particularly when they hold a lead heading into the final 15 minutes.

Have all the intel you need? Free actionable info is one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter.

Quarterback Transition: From Caleb Williams to Miller Moss

Much of the offseason chatter revolved around how USC would fare without star quarterback Caleb Williams. Miller Moss, the current starter, has shown flashes of promise, but the team’s current 3-4 record suggests that this transition hasn’t been seamless. While Moss has played well enough to keep the Trojans competitive, the fourth-quarter struggles can’t be pinned solely on the quarterback position.

Moss’s solid but unspectacular performances have made USC a tough team to predict for bettors. They’ve been in most games, but their inability to finish strong is a critical factor in determining betting lines, particularly for second-half spreads and totals.

Michigan Football’s Inconsistency and Loss to Illinois

Coaching Concerns: Lincoln Riley Under Pressure

Head coach Lincoln Riley, who was once hailed as the savior of USC football, now faces increasing scrutiny. After an 11-win season two years ago, followed by eight wins last year, Riley’s team is on pace for a .500 record, at best. His inability to close out games, particularly in the fourth quarter, has become a glaring issue.

Many analysts are drawing parallels between Riley’s struggles at USC and the late Scott Frost’s tenure at Nebraska, where a talented team consistently underperformed in tight games. For bettors, this coaching trend is crucial to monitor, as it impacts everything from USC’s overall record to their ability to cover spreads and hit over/under totals.

USC’s coaching struggles, especially late-game decisions, are contributing to their failure to cover spreads, particularly in games where they’re favored. Consider betting against USC in close matchups, especially when the game is expected to be decided in the final minutes.

Matriculate down the field with SportsGrid’s FREE Top College Football Picks and College Football Player Prop Picks every week!

Betting Outlook for USC’s Remaining Games

With five games left in the season, USC’s betting prospects are uncertain. The Trojans are unlikely to contend for a playoff spot, and their bowl game aspirations are fading. For bettors, USC’s remaining schedule offers opportunities to capitalize on their fourth-quarter struggles and coaching inefficiencies.

Bettors should be cautious when backing USC in games where they are favorites. The Trojans have proven to be vulnerable in second-half and fourth-quarter situations, making them a risky bet, particularly for those wagering on second-half or live betting lines.

Notre Dame Overcomes Georgia Tech with Strategic Plays

Conclusion: Tread Carefully with USC Bets

The USC Trojans are a team in transition, and their recent struggles in closing out games make them a risky proposition for bettors. While their talent is undeniable, their inability to finish strong—coupled with coaching concerns—makes them a team to approach with caution in betting markets. Pay close attention to fourth-quarter performance trends and coaching decisions when placing bets on USC games moving forward.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.