Stanford vs. USC: Preview, predictions, TV schedule and more

Matchups to Watch

There are some key matchups to focus on in this Cardinals-Trojans game on Saturday. Let’s take a look at the two best ones this weekend.

USC RB Ronald Jones II vs. Stanford LB Peter Kalambayi

This is one that’ll dictate how the day goes for USC. The Trojans will need Jones II to have a dominant evening and carry the load similar to Week 1. That’ll take pressure off of QB Sam Darnold and also allow him to find easier throws.

LB Peter Kalambayi was the best linebacker on the field for the Cardinals, racking up five tackles and a sack against Rice. He’ll need to help stop Jones II and limit his opportunities in the run game. Watch for these two names to be called a lot during the game.

Stanford RB Bryce Love vs. USC LB Cameron Smith

On the flip side, this matchup is equally as important. The USC defense isn’t as good as the Cardinal’s at this point of the season, so the top linebacker will need to step up. Love rushed for 180 yards and if he does that again, USC will most likely lose this matchup and game. Smith had six tackles this past weekend and will need to have a more dominant game against Stanford.

Love’s rushing will make life way easier on QB Keller Chryst, so it’s pivotal that Smith and the Trojans’ defense stops him early and often.