(Photo: Clutchpoints)
Saturday Spotlight
(15) USC Trojans at (7) Oregon Ducks
USC (8-2):
It’s time to start calling Lincoln Riley a quarterback whisperer. I’ve often referred to him as the best offensive-minded coach in the country, and the offense under his leadership will forever score points. Beyond that, look at all the quarterbacks he’s worked with: Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, Jalen Hurts, and Caleb Williams. Three of those guys went first overall in their respective drafts and won the Heisman Trophy, and one of them became a Super Bowl champion just a year ago. Now, Lincoln has another one: Jayden Maiava. A 6’4″ junior who can move when needed but can also pick defenses apart from the pocket. USC has quietly gone 8–2 because the Trojans lead the Big Ten in total offense and yards per play. Anytime Lincoln is on the sideline, the offense will rank among the best—either in the conference or nationally. The only concern is their running game, which is hit or miss, but still does just enough to keep drives alive while the passing attack consistently moves the chains and creates downfield explosives. Defensively, USC has improved, but they’re still not elite. They can generate pressure, but they struggle against the run and surrender too many big plays in the passing game. Today, they’ll battle in Eugene.
Oregon (9-1):
Ever since the shocking loss to the Indiana Hoosiers on October 11th, Oregon has found its rhythm, winning four straight—including a nail-biter against Iowa in what I considered a trap game, especially at Kinnick Stadium. Still, they escaped a low-scoring battle. Yesterday, I was asked what word I’d use to describe a strong football team, and I said balanced. To me, good teams can win shootouts or grind out ugly, physical games when the explosives aren’t there. That’s the Oregon Ducks in a nutshell. By default, they’re the third-best team in the Big Ten—behind, of course, Ohio State and the Indiana team that handed them their only loss. This is still the team to beat in the Big Ten, considering they won the conference title last season. They can attack defenses with both the run and the pass, they get downhill behind an excellent offensive line, and their defense is one of the best in the nation—no surprise, considering defense is Dan Lanning’s calling card. If they put it all together by playoff time, this is a team that will be a tough out. This afternoon, they welcome Lincoln Riley and the Trojans to Autzen.
USC X-Factor: Makai Lemon
He has emerged as the top receiving target for Maiava and this Trojans offense. If I had to use one word to describe him, it would be efficient. His drop rate is low, and he runs smooth routes. I often call him the rhythm-setter for Maiava—the safety valve every quarterback loves. Lemon does his best work in the slot, and that could challenge this elite Oregon secondary. They can be attacked with quick slants, option routes, and mismatches against safeties and linebackers.
Oregon X-Factor: Noah Whittington
He’s the engine that makes the Oregon offense go, and the Ducks are at their best when the run game is rolling. When Whittington gets touches, he provides explosive plays, consistent 5–7 yard gains, and breakaway ability at the second and third levels. When he’s hot, Oregon controls the tempo and opens the field for Dante Moore and the passing game. USC struggles against the run, and Whittington is exactly the type of back who can magnify those issues. Keep an eye on him today.
Final Thoughts:
These programs know each other well from their Pac-12 days. Now they meet as Big Ten members once again. This is essentially an elimination game for USC—another loss likely ends their playoff hopes. Oregon controls its own destiny: win today and next week, and they should hear their name called on our version of “Selection Sunday.” Here are the keys: For USC: Get Makai Lemon involved early—he’s the spark of their passing attack. Force turnovers. Oregon is efficient and disciplined; even one takeaway can shift momentum and, protect Maiava. Oregon generates elite pressure and will bring stunts and blitz packages. For Oregon: Get Dante Moore in rhythm. He doesn’t need the deep ball early—take what the defense gives. Attack USC’s secondary with play-action, motion, and route combinations and establish Whittington and exploit USC’s weakness against the run. Here’s what I expect: a back-and-forth affair that comes down to a defensive stop or two. USC will attack with balance, while Oregon will try to disrupt Maiava with pressure. Expect fireworks today in Eugene.
