Here’s a summarized article based on the provided content, with a "Key Takeaways" section and split into paragraphs as requested:
Key Takeaways
- USC, ranked No. 21, returns home to face Northwestern in a Week 11 Big Ten matchup.
- USC is currently No. 19 in the College Football Playoff standings, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
- Northwestern, with a 5-3 record, aims to secure bowl eligibility after missing the postseason last year.
- Northwestern has never defeated USC in their five previous meetings.
- The game will be broadcast nationally on Fox at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
- USC is favored by 14.5 points, with the over/under set at 50.5.
USC Faces Northwestern in Crucial Week 11 Matchup
The No. 21 ranked Southern California Trojans are set to host the Northwestern Wildcats in a Week 11 college football game. Coming off a significant road victory against Nebraska, the Trojans return to their home turf at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum after nearly a month away. The game is scheduled for Friday, November 7, with a kickoff time of 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT.
Playoff Hopes Alive for USC
USC’s season has been successful thus far, and they currently hold the No. 19 spot in the College Football Playoff standings. This ranking keeps their hopes of making the playoff for the first time in program history very much alive. With the season winding down, every game carries significant weight for the Trojans.
Northwestern Seeks Bowl Eligibility
The Northwestern Wildcats, with a 5-3 record, are looking to bounce back from a narrow loss to Nebraska in Week 9. They are striving to achieve bowl eligibility after missing the postseason last year. A victory against USC would be a significant step towards that goal, but it would also make history as Northwestern has never beaten USC in their program’s history, holding an 0-5 record against the Trojans.
Broadcast Information and Odds
The game between USC and Northwestern will be broadcast nationally on Fox, with Jason Benetti providing play-by-play commentary and Robert Griffin III offering analysis. Alexa Landestoy will be reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options include the Fox Sports Go app (with a TV login) and Fubo, which offers a free trial for new subscribers. According to BetMGM, USC is favored by 14.5 points, the over/under is set at 50.5, and the moneyline is USC (-625) and Northwestern (+450).
Predictions
While Northwestern’s defense has been a strong point this season, they are expected to face a significant challenge against USC’s potent offense. The prediction is that USC will prevail with a score of 38-17.