What happened: No. 12 USC hosts No. 20 Oregon at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum this Saturday. Both programs enter following uneven early-season performances, with the Ducks recovering from an upset loss to Oklahoma State and the Trojans coming off a narrow victory over Rutgers.
Why it matters: The outcome carries College Football Playoff implications for both rosters. A second loss for Oregon would damage their postseason viability in a year head coach Dan Lanning was expected to contend for a title. For USC, a loss would extend a nearly decade-long drought in the rivalry and increase pressure on head coach Lincoln Riley.
By the numbers: Oregon is listed as a. The Trojans produced 184 rushing yards in their recent win over Rutgers, an increase from their 2025 meeting with the Ducks where they managed 52 yards on the ground.
What to watch: Watch whether Riley relies on running backs King Miller and Riley Wormley to control the clock and limit Oregon's offensive possessions.