Ohio State vs. USC Spread
September 8, 2008
Saturday Sept. 13, most of college football fans will be glued to their to the tube when the #5 Ohio State Buckeyes head out to California to take on #1 USC Trojans. This game has been hyped ever since the end of last year, and both teams come in undefeated, and a win in this one will likely go a long way in both teams chances on making it to the BCS National Championship game.
The Trojans come in 1-0 and looked great in the opening week when they man handled Virginia 52-7, the Buckeyes looked well in week 1 as well, but without their star running back Chris “Beanie” Wells the Buckeyes struggled against Ohio last week, and managed just 26-14 win. The odds makers aren’t buying the Buckeyes chances in this one as they are currently 10.5 point underdogs in this one.
Taking a closer look at the Buckeyes offense, it was pretty easy to see that the backup running backs are no where near the level of Wells, and if he is unable to go it could be a long day for Buckeye fans. On the other hand if Wells is healthy and can run the ball with the power and speed, then this offense will get a whole lot better. If Wells is able to run, it not forces the defense to focus more on him, but it opens up the passing lanes for quarterback Todd Boeckman. It will also be interesting to see if freshman quarterback Terrelle Pryor is able to get loose against a very tough USC defense. So far the freshman has been much more a force rushing the ball, then throwing it.
When you look at the Buckeyes defense, there is plenty of talent, and this unit could keep the Buckeyes in it against USC. Last week against Ohio the Buckeyes were able to grab 4 interceptions and were able to grab a fumble as well. If the Buckeyes can force turnovers this weekend, there is a good change the Buckeyes can shock a lot of people with a win. Bet Buckeyes +10.5 at JustBet.com
As for the Trojans they looked just as advertised with a thumping of Virginia where they were able to put a show on offense early and often, as they put up 21 points in the first 11 minutes of the game. Quarterback Mark Sanchez threw for over 338 yards and tallied 3 touchdowns. Sophomore receiver Damian Williams was Sanchez’s favorite target grabbing 7 catches for 91 yards, but Ronald Johnson and Patrick Turner grabbed two of the touchdowns. As for the running game 4 guys shared the load, and expect the Trojans to go with the hot hand against the Buckeyes.
The Trojans defense gave up 6 play 62 yard drive touchdown drive towards the end of the 1st quarter, but that was all the scoring Virginia would do. The Trojans allowed the Virginia offense to just 187 yards, while forcing 3 fumbles, and grabbing a pick as well. Even as good as Wells is, there is a good chance this USC defense could be too good for him to get loose. The Trojans have to avoid arm tackling Wells, or he will run wild on the Trojans. Bet Trojans -10.5 at JustBet.com
Predicted Score:
Ohio State 20
USC 31
Professional handicapper Jason Lowry will not only have a play on this game, but many other great NCAA and NFL plays going this weekend, so don’t miss out on a chance to get with one of the best cappers in the business. Also check out what others are saying about the game this weekend, by taking a look at this great Buckeyes Trojans prediction.
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