College Football: 20 best rivalry games to watch in 2018
4. USC vs. UCLA
The USC/UCLA rivalry is considered intense but one could never get away with some of the things fans have done in the past. Some acts had the potential to be very “explosive”.
In 1958, two USC students planted a potential ticking time bomb under a UCLA cheerleader platform at the Coliseum, which was supposed to be a prank. The students said the bomb would not cause any damage and only produce a lot of smoke but police thought otherwise. It was discovered by two children who climbed under the platform and detached the wires from the clock. It was then found out that more than 50 USC students were involved in the prank.
While several activities might happen in the stands, on the field it is just as good. This rivalry has showcased some great talent like Troy Aikman, Marcus Allen, Matt Lienart, Reggie Bush and several other players drafted to the NFL.
One of the most notable games happened in 1967.
In what was dubbed “The Game of the Century”, No. 4 USC matched up with No. 1 UCLA. Both teams were looking to claim a conference championship and a National Championship berth. O.J. Simpson and Gary Beban were looking to make their cases for the Heisman Trophy. USC won 21-20 and beat Indiana in the Rose Bowl to win the national tile. Beban also ended up winning the Heisman. It lit a fire for the Trojans, who won five of the next eight games.
When these two teams get together, it’s one of the biggest shows in Los Angles. With Chip Kelly now leading the Bruins and Clay Helton looking for USC’s fourth straight win in the series, 2018’s game will be a must-watch for fans across the country.