USC football schedule 2019: Game-by-game predictions

Game-by-game predictions

Game 1: vs. Fresno State

This is an incredibly tough game for the Trojans to draw right off the bat. Fresno State had one of the toughest defenses last season and won the Las Vegas Bowl against Arizona State. The Bulldogs has taken off under Jeff Tedford. Still, this is a game at home for the Trojans. If USC is going to get things started right, beating a really good Fresno State squad would be a nice start.

Result: Win

Game 2: vs. Stanford

The yearly September game against Stanford has always been tough to predict. It’s a series that tends to favor the home team. David Shaw’s squad will be ready to play but look for J.T. Daniels to shine under the bright lights and get USC a big win and a conference one.

Result: Win

Game 3: at BYU

The first road game of the season for the Trojans is a trip to Provo. This could be tough and then it might not be. If the offense is clicking and Daniels proves to be the real deal this year, they should win this game.

Result: Win

Game 4: vs. Utah

The reigning Pac-12 South champs will pay USC a visit. Utah’s spot in the Pac-12 South is where the Trojans are hoping they end up at the end of the season. Utah’s defense will have to be strong on the road but this is a game where USC could really start to gain more believers than they had entering the season.

Result: Win

Game 5: at Washington

What could maybe be an early preview of the Pac-12 Championship Game, USC visits Washington on the road. USC could make big strides early in the season, but a road tilt against Washington could ultimately go against them late. Look for Chris Petersen’s squad to outlast the Trojans.

Result: Loss

Game 6: at Notre Dame

The traditional game against Notre Dame is in South Bend this year. That’s not good for the Trojans’ chances of coming out with a victory. This could be a good learning game for Daniels in a big environment against a College Football Playoff team.

Result: Loss

Game 7: vs. Arizona

The Trojans will host Kevin Sumlin’s squad. Khalil Tate can be a handful if he gets out and moving outside the pocket. This should be a fun game with some big plays. Look for the Trojans to win an exciting one.

Result: Win

Game 8: at Colorado

The Trojans should have their way against Colorado. It’s hard to gauge what exactly the Buffaloes are going to be this season with a new coach and new direction. They’re going to need time to figure things out while the Trojans are playing with their backs against the wall.

Result: Win

Game 9: vs. Oregon

Justin Herbert and Oregon are going to be a favorite for many in the Pac-12 discussion this upcoming season. Herbert’s one of the best quarterback talents in the country and could lead Oregon to a special season. USC will look to play upset at home. However, look for this to be a signature win for the Ducks on the road against a Trojans secondary that has some younger players.

Result: Loss

Game 10: at Arizona State

The Trojans will visit Arizona State and Herm Edwards. USC lost to Arizona State at home last season with a roster that was missing plenty of players and had no business keeping it close. With hopefully a healthy squad and Daniels actually playing the Sun Devils this time around, the Trojans could take this one on the road.

Result: Win

Game 11: at California

One of the losses that nearly sealed Clay Helton’s fate last season was a 15-14 loss to Cal on the road. If the Trojans want to help their coach out, this would be the game to win. However, USC has a disappointing loss each season and Cal could put Helton back in the dog house at home.

Result: Loss

Game 12: vs. UCLA

The rivalry game is at the Coliseum this year for the Trojans. Last year, they lost the rivalry game with a depleted roster. Should everyone stay healthy, this is a game Clay Helton absolutely has to win if he wants to stay head coach of the Trojans, especially if he’s still the coach at this point. Look for the Trojans to take down their rivals at home.

Result: Win

Final Record: 8-4 (6-3 in Pac-12)