USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins: 95th Crosstown Rivalry Showdown Preview
The USC Trojans are gearing up to face off against the UCLA Bruins in the 95th installment of their crosstown rivalry at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The game will kick off at 4:30 p.m. PT and will be televised on NBC. USC will be honoring its seniors on Senior Day as they look to finish the regular season on a positive note.
Despite their College Football Playoff hopes being dashed in their last game, USC is determined to finish the season strong. Wide receiver Makai Lemon, a top contender for the Biletnikoff Award, will aim to make a final statement in his last game in a USC uniform. Lemon, a projected first-round NFL Draft pick, may opt out of the bowl game, along with teammate Ja'Kobi Lane.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava will have his top targets, including standout freshman Tanook Hines, at his disposal for the game. Defensively, the Trojans will need to step up, especially in stopping the run, an area where they have struggled this season.
UCLA's quarterback Nico Iamaleava is expected to lead the Bruins in the rivalry game. Despite dealing with neck spasms in the previous game, Iamaleava is on the mend and ready to face USC. The Southern California native will be playing in his first crosstown rivalry, adding an extra layer of excitement to the matchup.
As the Trojans and Bruins prepare to battle it out on the field, both teams will be looking to end their seasons on a high note. The rivalry game promises to be a thrilling showdown between the two storied programs, with bragging rights and momentum heading into the offseason at stake.