UCLA Bruins (6-4) vs. USC Trojans (7-4)
UCLA Bruins vs. USC Trojans 11/18/23 – At Week 12 NCAAF, two eagerly anticipated match-ups between regional rivals UCLA Bruins with 6-4 record and USC Trojans who boast a 7-4 standing will take place this Saturday, providing not just an electric atmosphere but also providing key moments in both teams’ seasons trajectories. Live coverage on ABC makes this encounter a must-watch for college football enthusiasts looking for premium expert picks.
Though facing an uphill struggle this season, the Bruins have shown glimpses of brilliance due to key players such as running back Carson Steele who amassed 745 rushing yards on 143 attempts, averaging an impressive 5.2 yards per rush average and finding gaps and breaking for long runs that were essential in driving their offense forward. Wide receiver Logan Loya provided 502 receiving yards and four touchdowns while maintaining an average 12.6 yards per reception average that helped break down Trojan defense.
USC Trojans have proven themselves a formidable opponent this season thanks to Caleb Williams and MarShawn Lloyd, two key figures on offense for USC. Williams boasted 3243 passing yards at 67.9% completion rate; Lloyd contributed 803 rushing yards with 9 touchdowns while being an indispensable component of both their running game as well as passing game offense. Wide receiver Tahj Washington played an essential part of USC’s offensive strategy as well; receiving 915 receiving yards while scoring six times himself!
UCLA Bruins vs. USC Trojans 11/18/23 Game Info
When: | Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET |
Where: | United Airlines Field at the LA Memorial Coliseum |
TV: | ABC |
Stream: | Sofascore |
Dante Moore QB vs. Caleb Williams QB
Dante Moore of the UCLA Bruins has experienced a season marked by ups and downs. His performance has highlighted both his potential and areas that require improvement. Moore completed 91 passes out of 175 attempts for 1,344 passing yards (52% completion rate); although not quite elite he still found 10 touchdown passes while 7 interceptions raised questions regarding decision-making under pressure. Moore is known for making big plays down the field, evidenced by his longest pass of 81 yards this season. With his arm talent capable of connecting on deep throws – an advantage against USC’s defense – but also susceptible to throwing interceptions; an aspect they will likely exploit against Moore.
Caleb Williams has been outstanding for the USC Trojans this year as their starting quarterback, boasting an outstanding 67.9% completion rate and 3,249 passing yards in his debut. What stands out most about Williams, however, is not just his impressive stats but his ability to make decisive decisions under pressure as evidenced by only four interceptions committed during this campaign. Williams has amassed 29 touchdown passes over his three seasons at USC, demonstrating his knack for finding the end zone. His deep passing game is also impressive with one pass traveling 76 yards! As an all-around quarterback capable of breaking apart defenses with both arm and legs when necessary, his dual-threat ability adds another layer of complexity to USC’s offensive strategy, making him an unparalleled game-changer.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: USC Trojans -250, Total Odds: 65.5
The betting odds favor the USC Trojans, with a spread of -7 at +100 and a moneyline of -250, indicating their perceived strength. The total set at 65.5 points reflects expectations of a high-scoring game, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities.
UCLA Bruins Betting Trends
The Bruins have struggled against the spread, going 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games. Their tendency to underperform on the road, combined with a 2-10 SU record in their last 12 games at USC, suggests caution for bettors. The trend of games going under the total points also highlights their offensive inconsistencies.
USC Trojans Betting Trends
USC, despite their overall stronger record, has a worrying 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games. However, their ability to score is reflected in the total going over in 17 of their last 19 games. This trend, coupled with their strong home record against UCLA, positions them favorably for this matchup.
UCLA Bruins vs. USC Trojans 11/18/23 Betting Picks
USC Trojans come into this rivalry game as clear favorites and with good reason. Caleb Williams has been outstanding as quarterback and their overall performance this year has been impressive. Rivalry games can often prove unpredictable; therefore UCLA will likely try their hardest to pull an upset victory.
For our NCAAF picks today, we recommend taking the USC Trojans to cover the spread of -7 points. With Caleb Williams leading the way, they have the potential to win by a comfortable margin. Additionally, consider taking the over on the total points line of 65.5, as both teams have the ability to put up points.
Free Pick and Prediction: USC Trojans 40, UCLA Bruins 26