USC vs. Utah preview, prediction: Week 7 college football picks

Utah and USC are ranked No. 1 and 2 in the Pac-12 respectively. USC is undefeated through six games this season. Utah has dropped two games, at Florida and at UCLA.

Utah's offensive line is getting better and better. USC's defensive front is solid, especially Tuli Tuipulotu, who leads the nation with 7 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss.

Utah is a team that runs the ball well. USC struggles against the run. Utah ran for almost 200 yards against UCLA.

USC plays Utah in a potential Pac-12 championship game. UCLA and Oregon are also contenders. The loser of this game could find itself out of the picture later.

Utah is 1st in Pac-12 in total defense (315.8 ypg). USC has won 5 of its first 6 games by 10-plus points. Utah has 10 interceptions on the year, 3rd most nationally. Utes are 66-23 against top 25 teams under Kyle Whittingham.

Utah will keep USC quarterback Caleb Williams off the field and run the ball consistently. The Utes' back seven pursuit group will play USC's targets a little more physically. Utah should have the advantage moving the football on the ground early in the game and late to keep the chains moving.

USC plays Utah in the Week 7 college football game. College Football HQ predicts a 31-28 victory for Utah.