Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum at 4:30 p.m. PT on FOX
Ute to Watch: Senior RB Devontae BookerBooker's name was brought up endlessly this week by the coaches, players and media. Rightfully so, the senior is described as a "violent runner" who has the power to break tackles and the speed to run away from defenders. He is third in the Pac-12 in rushing at 130.5 yards per game, but he has the lowest yards per carry (4.86) of any runner in the top 14. Meaning, he is a true workhorse back, totaling five more attempts per game than any rusher in the conference, which gives away Utah's game plan. The Utes are trying to grind down opponents over 60 minutes.
(Photo by Rick Bowmer/AP)
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3 Keys
LOS
No need to come up with your own keys when the interim head coach states it so clearly. "We know that the game will be won up front," said Clay Helton. "Our offensive and defensive line will win this game for us." Defensively, the Trojans must stop Utah's power rushing attack, which includes Booker and 6-foot-7 QB Travis Wilson. Offensively, the Trojans want to remain balanced despite the Utes imbalanced statistics (No. 1 Pac-12 rush defense and No. 10 Pac-12 pass defense).
Deuces Wild
Two is the number of the week, as in No. 2 Adoree' Jackson and Ronald Jones II. The Trojans are depleted at wide receiver, so Jackson will primarily be an offensive force for the first time in his USC career. With RB Tre Madden limited and Jones surging, the freshman tailback is expected to receive his biggest opportunity of the season. Jackson and Jones bring an explosive element to the game that the Utes cannot match nor will they be able to handle if USC can get either in space.
Believe
If the Trojans want to win the Pac-12 South, they simply have to beat the Utes on Saturday at the Coliseum. USC's home stadium has hardly been a fortress of late, but when the Trojan Family supports the team, the Trojans respond. Will the Coliseum be a house of energy or anxiety? The answer may prove a deciding factor. USC is 10-2 all-time against AP No. 3 teams, including 3-1 at home.
