Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum at 3 p.m. PT on Pac-12 Networks
Buffalo to Watch: Junior WR Nelson Spruce
For the third consecutive week, the Trojans' secondary will be tasked with marking one of the nation's best receivers. Spruce is the most active pass catcher in the nation with 62 receptions. He also tied for the FBS lead with 10 touchdown grabs. The Los Angeles product will be making his own Homecoming this weekend, so look for QB Sefo Liufau to target him frequently.Click here for more on the Buffs.
3 Keys
Second Option
Buck Allen is the identity of this Trojans' offense, but with Tre Madden done for the year, USC cannot afford to run him into the ground. Justin Davis has been effective at times, but he could use a breakout game to boost his confidence. He admitted that the comeback from last season's injury has been a slow struggle, but he is feeling healthy and regaining his spark. Colorado allows 5.7 yards per carry within the tackles, which is second worst among Power 5 teams (South Carolina), so Davis and Allen should pound the rock behind an improving offensive line.
Kiddie Competition
John Plattenburg and Jonathan Lockett were pressed into duty last week at Arizona, but they responded to the challenge, which is now being issued to the incumbents. Kevon Seymour, Adoree' Jackson and Gerald Bowman are locked into the lineup if healthy, but the true freshmen are pushing for a place. Plus, Rahshead Johnson, who was converted from a wide receiver to a cornerback not too long ago, could make his debut. At USC, the competition never stops.
Milk the Scoreboard
If the Trojans get a lead, Steve Sarkisian's marching orders to his offense will likely be different this week. The head coach has seen fourth quarter advantages evaporate in each of the last two games in part because the offense was focused more on bleeding the clock than lighting up the scoreboard. Sarkisian knows no lead is safe anymore in the Pac-12, so he will preach offensive ruthlessness from here on out.
