Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum at 1 p.m. PT on Pac-12 Network
Buffalo to Watch: Junior WR Shay FieldsLike most of the Pac-12, Colorado recruits Southern California heavily. The Buffaloes have 43 players from the state of California, while USC has zero from Colorado. Shay Fields is a local product who once was linked with the Trojans, but ultimately, he found a bigger opportunity in Boulder, and he seized it. The third-year wideout is second in the Pac-12 in receiving yards per game and tops in yards per catch. He is an explosive weapon in the pass game who would love nothing more than to come back to Los Angeles and show off in front of family and friends.
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3 Keys
Like ASU, But Opposite
Arizona State was one of the best fourth quarter teams in college football, but the Trojans put the game out of reach before the final 15 minutes. Conversely, Colorado is one of the best first half teams in the nation. The Buffaloes have scored 164 points before halftime and only 52 after the break. USC must burst out of the gate like Ralphie, so the Trojans can gallop home like Traveler.Â
Baxter Ball
Colorado appears to be a team without many weaknesses. The Buffaloes have the top ranked defense in the Pac-12, and they are exceptionally balanced offensively, ranking third in the conference in rushing and passing. So, how do you beat them? Michigan is the only team that can claim a victory over Colorado in 2016, and even the Wolverines found themselves trailing, 21-7. However, Michigan won quite comfortably in the end, 45-28, thanks to two special teams touchdowns. USC has been expert in the third phase of the game this season after welcoming back special teams guru John Baxter. In an otherwise evenly matched affair, big plays on special teams could tilt the balance.
Turning Point
The Trojans rebounded nicely from a trying September by blasting previously undefeated ASU last week. The season's momentum can really turn if USC can pick up a galvanizing win over a veteran, ranked Colorado team, which is playing with much more belief than recent versions. The Trojans did not leave much room for error after an 0-2 start in league play, but if they can beat the Buffs than every Pac-12 South team will have at least one loss and another wide open division race will commence.
