Skip to main content
Join Now
Get a profile. Be recruited.

Joel Klatt makes pick for Michigan at USC

Grant Grubbs Profile Pictureby: Grant Grubbs10/09/25grant_grubbs_
USC HC Lincoln Riley and Michigan HC Sherrone Moore
© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

According to BetMGM, USC is a 2.5-point favorite against Michigan this weekend. On Thursday, FOX Sports analyst Joel Klatt weighed in on the highly-anticipated Big Ten matchup.

“We’ve seen them play well on the road at Nebraska. They struggled a bit, obviously, at Oklahoma, and now they’re going back on the road in a really big environment,” Klatt said of Michigan. “But, this is a team that can lean on that physicality, and this is where I would go back to. If USC just tries to lean on the pass game, that hasn’t worked for them in the past. They need to run it with Waymond Jordan.

“They need to be more physical with their defense. And the evidence suggests that that’s not available to them because we haven’t seen it. Now, could that change? Certainly… But the evidence tells you that it’s not there. Therefore, I’ve got to take the more physical team, even on the road, getting 2.5. I like Michigan in this game. They get the two and a half. I’ll take it. I’ll take them to win this one straight up.”

Since falling to Oklahoma in Week 2, Michigan has won three consecutive games. In contrast, USC is coming off a 34-32 loss to Illinois.

Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood has been the difference-maker for the Wolverines. He’s gradually found his footing this season and is now routinely performing like one of the best quarterbacks in the Big Ten.

In Michigan’s 24-10 triumph over Wisconsin in Week 6, Underwood completed 19-of-his-28 pass attempts for 270 yards and a touchdown, without throwing an interception. He was far from the only standout in the showing.

Running back Justice Haynes erupted for 117 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries. Michigan is averaging 237.8 rushing yards per game, the 13th most in the country. USC also has a strong ground game this season, but the team’s defense often hasn’t held up.

The Trojans are giving up 359.4 yards per game, the fifth most in the Big Ten. USC will have to shore up its defense and improve its physicality if it wants to prove Klatt wrong.

The Trojans and Wolverines will square off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday. The game will air live on NBC.

DISCLAIMER: This site is 100% for entertainment purposes only and does not involve real money betting.

The content provided in this article is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of On3. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.

Bets and betting odds data are powered by BetMGM. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (available in the US), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 (MI), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Must be 21+. Visit BetMGM.com for terms and conditions. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements.”