USC vs. Indiana: Five things to watch as Trojans, Hoosiers fight for CFP lives
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The No. 9 Indiana Hoosiers host No. 18 USC Trojans in a crucial Big Ten game with significant College Football Playoff (CFP) implications; both teams must win to strengthen their playoff bids.
- Indiana must win out, including this game, to secure a Big Ten Championship Game spot and a potential CFP berth, while a loss could jeopardize their playoff chances despite being reigning champs.
- Indiana's quarterback situation remains uncertain after a mid-game change last week, with the offense struggling to score consistently, putting pressure on their passing game to improve against a porous USC defense.
- USC, coached by Lincoln Riley, needs a statement road win to overcome a poor recent away record and validate their late-season surge following a key win over Ohio State.
- Indiana's defense is a national strength, allowing just 12.4 points per game and excelling in limiting big plays, while USC relies on dynamic freshmen receivers to challenge the Hoosiers' stout defense.
