Take a look at our preview and prediction for Monday evening’s Rose Bowl between USC and Penn State.
Penn State had a fantastic finish to its 2016 season. After starting the year just 2-2 with a blowout loss against Michigan, the Nittany Lions won nine straight games, including a Big Ten title victory over Wisconsin which required a comeback. This team is as hot as anyone in the country.
The Nittany Lions have been blowing by opponents through the latter half of the year and it’s probably because of an electric offense coupled with a solid defense. This team is one of the best all-around squads in the country.
Remember when I said Penn State was as hot as any team in college football? Well, the USC Trojans are the other “hottest” team in the nation. It’s a good pairing as both teams were arguably good enough to make the playoff had they not struggled early in the season.
Since making the quarterback change to Sam Darnold, the Trojans’ offense looked completely different and improved. This team dangerous on both sides of the ball.
Here’s how you can watch Monday’s Rose Bowl online:
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Date: Monday, Jan. 2
Start Time: 5:00 p.m. ET
Location: Pasadena, CA
Venue: Rose Bowl
TV: ESPN
Live Stream: WatchESPN
Keys to Victory
Trace McSorley needs to have the best game of his career in this one. Everyone knows USC is capable of putting up points and it will be up to McSorley to respond with a big game of his own. Not getting rattled on the big stage will be important as well for the young quarterback and Penn State will need his A-game.
The Trojans, on the other hand, will need to limit the Nittany Lions’ potent offense. Saquon Barkley is one of the best running backs in the country and will need to be held in check as well as McSorley through the air. The Trojans have the pieces on the defensive side of the ball to shut down Penn State, but will they?
Betting Odds
Point Spread: USC -7
Over/Under: 59.5
Prediction
There may not be much defense played in this one with all of the offensive pieces for each team. Saquon Barkley is going to have a big game for Penn State with a couple of touchdowns and 150 rushing yards while Sam Darnold will pass for over 300 yards. It will come down to a final drive by USC and this will be an all-time classic Rose Bowl matchup.
Final Score: USC 41, Penn State 34