2021 Game 8: USC Football vs. Arizona
Arizona Wildcats (0-7, 0-4) at USC Trojans (3-4, 2-4)
United Airlines Field at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on ESPNU at 4 p.m. PT
Wildcat to Watch: RS Junior WR Stanley Berryhill III
Arizona has clearly struggled on offense this season, but Berryhill has been a legitimate bright spot. He ranks second in the Pac-12 in catches and third in yards per game. His numbers have tailed off a bit lately as the Wildcats quarterback situation devolved, but he put up big stats against BYU, San Diego State and Oregon, arguably the three best opponents Arizona has faced so far.
3 Keys
A Nice Glass of Keaontay
The Trojans have greatly improved on the ground this season, moving up from 3.17 yards per carry to 4.39. Keaontay Ingram has been the key difference maker, rushing for 5.68 yards per touch and picking up a first down on a third of his runs (top 10 in the country). However, the Trojans are still only 125th in the nation in rushing attempts (out of 130 teams). USC has often ditched the running game this season because they have been playing catch up, but the Trojans should remain patient on Saturday against the second worst rush defense in the Pac-12.
Rev Up the Rush
USC took a conservative approach defensively in South Bend, electing to bend without breaking, but it cost the Trojans any semblance of a pass rush. They finished with one sack on the night, giving them 11 for the season, which ranks second to last in the Pac-12. Expect USC to be much more aggressive on Saturday against an Arizona offense which is on its third quarterback. Drake Jackson and the Trojans took advantage of a similarly dysfunctional Colorado offense for 5 sacks in Boulder.
Happy Homecoming
It's been a tough year at the Coliseum for the home fans, watching the Trojans lose three straight in blowout fashion. With a hearty group of alums expected for Homecoming, including nearly 1,000 band members, USC has a chance to put on a show against a struggling opponent. The Trojans must seize the day, get back to .500 on the season, and make a final push for bowl eligibility.