USC vs. Indiana Preview: Trojans, Under Are Best Bets

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USC Looks to Strengthen Its Case Against an Indiana Team Facing Resume Questions

Two-loss USC enters its matchup against Indiana as an underdog, with both teams facing a must-win situation. The Hoosiers are unhappy with their ranking, but their schedule and lack of a ranked victory raise questions about their resume.

Indiana opened with North Texas, Howard and Western Kentucky before playing close games against Northwestern, Nebraska, Michigan and Minnesota, all decided by seven points or fewer. The Hoosiers lost to Ohio State and rolled Rutgers, but they have not recorded a ranked win.

Indiana has one of the country’s best defenses, allowing 75 rushing yards and 12 points per game. However, its offense has averaged only 18 points over the past four games. The quarterback situation is also uncertain after two quarterbacks attempted 15 passes apiece in the team’s most recent game, while the running back room is dealing with injuries. Turbo Richard is not expected to play.

USC has an opportunity to improve its position with games against Ohio State, Indiana and UCLA. The Trojans have a good offense, but Indiana’s defense could make this another lower-scoring Big Ten game.

The preferred plays are the under and USC plus 10 at minus 120. USC’s team total is 20.5, and reaching 20 points could be enough to keep the game close or potentially win. Even if the Trojans fall behind, the back door could remain open as they try to hang around on the road in Bloomington.