Joel Klatt reveals pick for USC at Nebraska

In a big weekend for the Big Ten, the USC Trojans travel to Lincoln for a showdown against the Nebraska Cornhuskers. One many people have had circled since the schedule came out, this is USC’s third-ever trip to Nebraska and first since 2007. Of course, they were members of the Pac-12 back then, and the Huskers were a part of the Big 12.

Predictions have begun to roll in, including from FOX’s Joel Klatt. He is taking USC on multiple levels, beginning with the game itself. More trust in the USC offense compared to Nebraska has Klatt beleiving they can get over the 30-point threshold.

And then when it comes to the spread, he also likes the Trojans. As of Thursday night, BetMGM has them favored by 4.5, a couple of points less than Klatt got them at.

“The question becomes — Is USC going to score over than 30? My answer would be yes,” Klatt said via The Joel Klatt Show. “Is Nebraska going to score 30? My answer is no. I think this game is where USC, kind of, puts itself back on the map as it relates to a potential push for a Playoff spot… I like USC in this one, 31-21. They cover the 6.5 on the road. Again, this is a good football team not getting a ton of respect. But when they can play balanced, they’re really good.”

Speaking of the College Football Playoff push, Klatt set up what looks to be an entertaining November for USC. Of course, they need to take care of business against Nebraska. But from there, big-time matchups vs. the Iowa Hawkeyes and Oregon Ducks take place. Winning those would put Lincoln Riley‘s bunch in solid position. Northwestern and UCLA are on the calendar too but based on records, are games everyone will expect USC to win.

Going back to the Nebraska game — 30 points appears to be the key number for Klatt. USC has scored at least 30 in all but one game, failing to do so in the Notre Dame loss. Nebraska has been held under the number on four occasions, two resulting in defeats. Failing to do so again on Saturday adds another tally in the loss column in Klatt’s eyes.

Kickoff from Memorial Stadium is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. CT. Or for fans watching on the West Coast, a nice 4:30 p.m. PT start time.