The game of the week features a rivalry that has dated back many years. It is a battle between the USC Trojans and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. The Trojans come off of a win against Utah. Notre Dame is coming off of a bye week. USC’s high powered offense hopes to go into Notre Dame and steal this game from the Irish.

    The Trojans come into this game ranked 11th in the country as they are led by QB Sam Darnold. Darnold was a Heisman favorite coming into the season, but he has fallen off. He is still a great QB prospect as he has thrown for 2,063 yards and 15 touchdowns. He has a problem with turnovers as he has thrown 9 interceptions this season. He will need to improve that against this strong Notre Dame defense. Darnold’s favorite receiver this year has been Deontay Burnett. The Trojans running game will be placed on the shoulders of Ronald Jones II. He has been a very consistent option as a RB with 640 yards and 8 touchdowns. This is gonna be a monumental statement game for USC and it will keep their College Football Playoff Hopes alive.

      The Fighting Irish are ranked 13th in the country and they hope to pull off the upset and have a shot at the CFB Playoffs. They will need this win and a lot of help from other teams in order to have a chance. The offense is actually not that productive. QB Brandon Wimbush has only thrown 783 yards and 6 touchdowns. RB Josh Adams has been the bright spot for the Irish as he has rushed for 776 yards and 5 touchdowns. Notre Dame’s last game was two weeks ago against North Carolina and they won 33-10. Notre Dame will be defending their home field.

     This game will offer a very competitive battle against two historically recognized football programs. The Irish will need to stop USC in order to have chance in this game. Notre Dame needs to stop USC early because they are not the type of team that can catch up. The stakes are high as whoever loses this game will officially be knocked out of the CFB playoffs.