UCLA vs. USC odds preview, game and player prop betting predictions, best sportsbook promo codes

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Something has to give when UCLA and USC square off Saturday afternoon at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Both teams enter losing back-to-back games, and because the Trojans played in Week 0, this is their final regular-season game.

Morale is low for Southern California football fans.

USC opened the year as favorites to win the Pac-12 Championship, and last week’s loss to Oregon officially squashed those dreams. The Trojans fell short in every meaningful game, going 0-4 record vs. ranked teams.

Amid another mediocre season, Bruins head coach Chip Kelly is on the hot seat. Kelly is 33-33 since taking the UCLA job in 2018, and multiple outlets are reporting the former Oregon, Eagles, and 49ers coach is getting fired after Week 12.

UCLA’s motivation is called into question. Will the Bruins band together and have a spirited effort vs. USC, or have players read the news about Kelly’s firing, turning it into a distraction?

This could be Caleb Williams’ last time suiting up for the Trojans, with the team in no position to earn a spot in a highly-touted bowl game.

While USC has been one of the most disappointing teams of the season, each of its four losses has come against ranked opponents. UCLA, on the other hand, dropped games vs. Utah, Oregon State, and Arizona and is fresh off a 17-7 loss to a two-win Arizona State squad.

The Sun Devils allow 27 points per game, and the Bruins were only capable of mustering a touchdown in the embarrassing defeat. UCLA’s offensive troubles bode well for a USC defense that surrenders the third-most points per game in the Pac-12.

Look for Williams to ball out in what is likely his final game in the cardinal and gold.

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner performed well last week against an Oregon defense allowing the ninth-fewest points per game in P5. Williams tallied 291 yards, a passing touchdown, and a rushing score.

Williams has surpassed 290 yards through the air in three straight games. The Washington, D.C. native’s ability to sense pressure and extend plays is only comparable to Patrick Mahomes.

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