By Garin Turner
The No. 19 USC Trojans (6-2, 4-1 Big Ten) continue their push toward a potential College Football Playoff berth as they host the Northwestern Wildcats (5-3, 3-2 Big Ten) on Friday, November 7, at 9 p.m. ET on FOX.
Recent Performance
USC survived a defensive battle last week, defeating Nebraska 21-17 in Lincoln. Quarterback Jayden Maiava struggled through the air, completing just 9 of 23 passes for 135 yards and one interception. However, he made an impact with his legs, rushing for 62 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries.
Running back King Miller provided consistency on the ground, leading the Trojans with 129 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Receiver Jaden Richardson contributed a key 43-yard grab that helped sustain a scoring drive.
What’s at Stake
With the regular season winding down, USC finds itself in the thick of the Big Ten race and on the fringe of the playoff conversation. A win Friday night would push the Trojans closer to a potential conference championship berth — and with the right combination of results elsewhere, could boost their national standing.
For Northwestern, this game represents an opportunity to secure bowl eligibility and build momentum under first-year head coach David Braun.
Keys to the Game
The Trojans’ offense has been among the most explosive in the country, but quarterback consistency remains the biggest question. Maiava will need to rebound against a Northwestern defense ranked 19th nationally in total defense (304.3 yards per game) and 13th against the pass (165.1 yards per game).
If USC’s offensive line can establish the run early and protect Maiava from pressure, it should open up opportunities for the Trojans’ deep receiving corps, led by Makai Lemon. Defensively, USC must limit big plays and avoid giving Northwestern short fields.
Team Leaders
USC Trojans
• Passing: Jayden Maiava – 2,315 yards, 15 TD, 5 INT
• Rushing: Waymond Jordan – 88 carries, 576 yards, 5 TD
• Receiving: Makai Lemon – 50 receptions, 776 yards, 6 TD
Team Stats
Offense
• Total: 505.9 yards per game (2nd FBS)
• Passing: 302.3 ypg (10th)
• Rushing: 203.6 ypg (20th)
• Scoring: 39.8 ppg (8th)
Defense
• Total: 355.1 yards allowed per game (56th FBS)
• Passing: 212 ypg (59th)
• Rushing: 143.1 ypg (61st)
• Scoring: 22.4 ppg (53rd)
Prediction
Northwestern’s defense may slow the Trojans early, but USC’s offensive depth and tempo should eventually take control. Expect a strong second-half surge from Maiava and the backfield tandem to put the game away.
Final Score: USC 42, Northwestern 13.
