Missouri State (0-0) at USC (0-0)

When: 4:30 p.m. Saturday

Where: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

TV/radio: Big Ten Network/710 AM

Line: USC by 35½ points

NOTABLE INJURIES

USC: OUT: CB Prophet Brown (lower body), K Caden Chittenden (undisclosed); QUESTIONABLE: DL Jahkeem Stewart (lower body)

Missouri State: OUT: TE Gary Clinton (leg); QUESTIONABLE: WR James BlackStrain (thumb)

What’s at stake? USC has to make a statement from beginning to end in this first game if it wants to be taken seriously for the rest of the season. The Trojans need to flaunt all-around depth and score in a variety of ways to prove that Jayden Maiava is a quarterback with enough poise to lead this team through a precarious season of high expectations. Missouri State has nothing to lose and will play like it. The Bears are new to the FBS and getting a team like USC on the schedule is a win in itself. It gives them increased revenue, exposure on national television and the opportunity to show their product in front of a swath of potential recruits.

Who’s better? USC will be the more talented, physically imposing team. So this game will allow the coaching staff to get a good look at any potential holes in the game plan. Although some players have solidified their place as starters, expect to see lots of faces throughout all four quarters as the coaches figure out the best combination of players to put on the field.

Matchup to watch: USC’s offensive line vs. Missouri State’s front four. The O-line is one of the weakest spots on the field for the Trojans and could give up a play or two if the Bears see mistakes to take advantage of. Missouri State has transfers from Oregon State and Penn State on the edge in Davon Townley and D.J. Wesolak, who have played in environments like the Coliseum before.

USC wins if: Missouri State’s Jacob Clark was one of the best quarterbacks in the FCS and has previous experience in FBS football after three seasons at Minnesota. The Trojans’ starting defense will need to force him to use his arm, painting him into tight corners and tough decisions. If Clark does manage to get passes off, USC’s lockdown secondary has the chance to live up to the hype.

Prediction: USC 49, Missouri State 14. The Trojans come away with a win that will not only boost confidence but also provide them with a direction as they look toward more challenging opponents.

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