The highly anticipated showdown between the USC Trojans and LSU Tigers is set to kick off the 2024 college football season in the Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic. This game marks USC’s debut in the Big Ten, where they face SEC powerhouse LSU on Sunday evening, offering a glimpse of what could be a future College Football Playoff matchup. Both teams are led by experienced coaches, with Lincoln Riley entering his third year at USC after an 8-5 season in the Pac-12, and Brian Kelly having secured back-to-back 10-win seasons in his first two years with LSU.
The game is scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, with the Tigers currently favored by 4.5 points according to the latest odds. The over/under for total points stands at 66.5. Before placing any bets, it’s crucial to check out the predictions and betting advice from the SportsLine Projection Model, which has been highly successful in picking college football games.
The SportsLine model simulates every FBS college football game 10,000 times and has generated a profit of over $2,000 for $100 bettors on its top-rated picks against the spread. Coming off a profitable season with a 13-9 record on spread picks, the model now focuses on the USC vs. LSU matchup.
Key Betting Insights
- Spread: LSU -4.5
- Over/Under: 66.5 points
- Money Line: LSU -185, USC +153
Why LSU Can Cover
LSU’s defense has been significantly strengthened by the hiring of Blake Baker as the new defensive coordinator. Baker’s successful tenure at Missouri, where he dramatically improved the defense, bodes well for LSU. Linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. is a standout player to watch, leading Power Five freshmen in sacks and tackles for loss in 2022. With USC’s offensive line having lost three starters and an inexperienced quarterback under center, Perkins is poised to make a significant impact.
Why USC Can Cover
USC’s young talent, especially from its 2023 freshman class, is ready to shine. Zachariah Branch and Duce Robinson, both top recruits in their respective positions, bring dynamic playmaking abilities to the field. Branch, a Vegas native, will be motivated to excel in his hometown, while Robinson’s size and speed make him a formidable threat downfield. Despite losing seven players to the NFL Draft, USC’s new generation of players could tip the scales in their favor.
Final Thoughts and Prediction
The SportsLine model leans toward the Over on the total, projecting around 69 points combined. Additionally, the model indicates that one side of the spread is likely to hit in well over 50% of simulations. For a detailed breakdown and to get the model’s final picks, visit SportsLine.
Whether you’re a fan or a bettor, this USC vs. LSU game promises to be an exciting start to the college football season, with both teams showcasing their talent and strategies in a high-stakes matchup.
