Wisconsin Badgers vs
USC TrojansPredictions & Preview

Wisconsin Badgers Prepare to Take on USC Trojans in Big Ten Matchup, USC Favored by 15.5 Points

This Saturday, college football fans can look forward to an exciting Big Ten matchup between the Wisconsin Badgers and the 13th-ranked USC Trojans. Despite historically dominating the series, USC will be looking to bounce back after a recent loss to Wisconsin in the 2015 Holiday Bowl. The game is set to take place at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum at 3:30 ET. USC is the favored team, with the betting line opening at -14 and currently standing at USC -15.5.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Badgers +500 | Trojans -700
• Spread: Badgers +15.5 (-110) | Trojans -15.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 51.25 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that USC will win straight-up is 88%.

Wisconsin vs USC Stats

Wisconsin Badgers

Luke Fickell is in his second season as head coach of the Wisconsin Badgers, with a record of 10-7. The team started 2-1 in the non-conference schedule before a loss to Alabama. Despite this, they are heading into Big Ten play with a clean slate. Backup quarterback Braeden Locke has taken over due to a season-ending injury to Tyler Van Dyke. Chez Mellusi leads the rushing attack, while Will Pauling has been a standout receiver. Defensively, coordinator Mike Tressel's unit is ranked 76th in the country, allowing an average of 28.0 points per game. Wisconsin's power ranking is 69, with rankings of 103 in offense and 78 in defense, and they are 2-1 (0-3 ATS) this season.

USC Trojans Analysis

Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans joined the Big Ten this offseason and faced Michigan in their conference opener after securing wins against LSU and Utah State. Despite a heartbreaking loss to the Wolverines, USC remains a strong contender with the fourth-shortest odds to win the conference title. The team is fully healthy heading into their next game, with quarterback Miller Moss leading the offense and Woody Marks excelling in the backfield. Defensively, USC made a significant addition in D'Anton Lynn as their coordinator, ranking 20th nationally by allowing only 15.7 points per game. The Trojans currently hold a power ranking of 50 and are ranked #27 for offense and #18 for defense. In their last three matchups against Wisconsin, USC has emerged victorious.

Wisconsin Favored Against USC in Big Ten Opener, Badgers +15.5 Points Trending for Saturday Matchup

The upcoming game between Wisconsin and USC in the Big Ten opener this Saturday is expected to be an intriguing matchup. In terms of betting, I am leaning towards the Badgers at +15.5 points. Wisconsin's recent bye week has allowed them additional time to prepare and rest for this game, which could give them an advantage. Additionally, I am reluctant to place a bet on USC giving up more than two touchdowns in a Big Ten game until they can demonstrate an ability to stop a strong rushing offense. Following a significant 290 rushing yards allowed against Michigan, the Trojans may struggle against Wisconsin's run-heavy strategy. Crossing the two-touchdown margin in spreads presents challenges, especially when facing a physical team like Wisconsin with an extra week to prepare. Considering these factors, I envision the Badgers having multiple opportunities to keep the game within two scores.

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