GAME PREVIEW AND PREDICTION: Trojans Return to the Coliseum for Big Ten Home Opener vs the Spartans

Michgan State Spartans (3-0) vs #25 USC Trojans (3-0)

Saturday, Sept. 20 – 8 PM | LA Memorial Coliseum

Watch Live: FOX

PREVIEW: It’s the 2025 Big Ten Premiere on FOX, as No. 25 USC hosts Michigan State in a primetime clash that blends myth, history, and new-era conference stakes.

This is the first meeting between the two storied programs in 35 years, since the Spartans edged the Trojans 17–16 in the 1990 John Hancock Bowl. The all-time series is deadlocked at 4–4, and Saturday night sets the stage for a high-stakes tiebreaker.

Fresh off a weather-delayed 33–17 road win at Purdue, the Trojans debut in the AP Top 25 this week at No. 25. Their offense has been nothing short of fireworks, averaging 600 yards per game and 55 points per contest.

Quarterback Jayden Maiava is one of the nation’s early stars, leading the country in passing efficiency and yards per completion while remaining turnover-free through three games. On the ground, running back Waymond Jordan has emerged as a big-play threat, giving USC balance and explosiveness.

Defensively, coordinator D’Anton Lynn’s group has been just as disruptive. The Trojans rank among national leaders in interceptions, sacks, and defensive scores, with linebacker Eric Gentry and safety Bishop Fitzgerald anchoring a unit that thrives on takeaways.

The Spartans arrive in Los Angeles at 3–0, but last week’s win over Youngstown State raised concerns. Injuries have mounted, and head coach Jonathan Smith may be forced to test his team’s depth in a hostile Coliseum environment.

Dual-threat quarterback Aidan Chiles has shown flashes as both a passer and runner, but his supporting cast is uncertain. Leading receiver Nick Marsh and running back Makhi Frazier are both questionable, leaving the Spartans potentially short-handed against one of the nation’s hottest teams.

Prediction

JP’s Prediction: USC continues to roll under the lights in their Big Ten After Dark showcase. The Trojans’ offense overwhelms Michigan State’s depleted depth, while the defense forces timely turnovers.

USC 42, Michigan State 14