Saturday night's USC vs. Michigan State football game will mark the first conference game of the year and the second straight for the Trojans after beating Purdue 33-17 a week ago.
The Spartans are hoping to pull off the upset as they come into the game as major underdogs, and USC is ranked for the first time this season, coming in at No. 25. This isn't going to be an easy matchup for either team. In fact, this is both sides' toughest opponent of the season thus far.
Will the Spartans pull off the upset? Let's get bold.
1. Nick Marsh has first 100-yard game
While Nick Marsh has looked incredible through three weeks, he has yet to hit the 100-yard mark in any of the three games. He was on pace to do just that against Youngstown State, and then some, but an injury knocked him out before halftime.
Marsh has been limited all week, but he's been reportedly cleared to play, and I think he's about to go off against a USC defense that hasn't exactly excelled against the pass. He's going to catch seven passes for 112 yards and a touchdown.
USC hasn't seen a receiver like Marsh this season.
2. MSU wins the turnover battle
Michigan State is -1 in turnover margin for the season while USC is a solid +5 with three interceptions in its last game at Purdue. The Spartans haven't generated many turnovers this season. They've forced three turnovers but have four of their own, which isn't going to cut it against a team like USC.
Jonathan Smith's team will find a way to flip the script against the Trojans on Saturday night, winning the turnover battle 2-1.
3. MSU loses in the final minute
A year ago, Michigan State went on the road in Week 4 and lost in the final minute. Unfortunately, I see history repearting itself on Saturday night.
I think the Spartans play much better than people expect, they'll cover the hefty spread, and they'll lose in the final minute thanks to a Jayden Maiava touchdown pass after a long drive after Michigan State just tied things up.
Aidan Chiles and the Spartans will get into USC territory in response, but a final shot to the end zone with time expiring will fall short. USC wins 34-27.