San Jose State vs USC   Picks & Props

Tanook Hines will likely lead the Trojans in receiving this season, but a Week 0 game with a 38.5-point spread when you returned to practice only a week ago isn't conducive to statistical dominance. Expect a snap count and to see plenty of playing time for star freshmen Trent Mosley, Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, Ethan Feaster) and talented backups (Zacharyus Williams).

Anthoney Ivey may not turn into a star like Nick Nash or Danny Scudero, but the former four-star recruit is certainly in a system that maximizes wide receiver output. Offensive coordinator Craig Stutszmann operates his attack with tempo and loves to air it out (fifth in pass rate), which should be the case here in a game the Spartans will be trailing. Ivey's listed as a starter on the depth chart, making these odds insane.

USC returns eight starters to an offense that ranked fifth in EPA per play on standard downs and averaged 7.1 yards per play. The Trojans will rack up points against an SJSU defense with no experience and little effectiveness, especially up front (128th in stuff rate, 123rd in front seven havoc). It's a total rebuild year for Ken Niematalolo as his Spartans rank 137th in returning production, so this opener will get ugly.

USC will be particularly eager to hit the ground running in what is turning into a bit of a prove-it year for Lincoln Riley. Jayden Maiava & Co. will move the ball up and down the field with ease against a San Jose State squad that won just three games last season and allowed 30+ points in six of 12 games, including 55 to Nevada, 41 to Fresno State, and 38 to Hawaii. 
 

This game total is too high for what San Jose State is putting on the field offensively. The Spartans are starting a transfer QB in Luke Weaver with more career tunrover-worthy plays (7) than TD passes (6), and he's surrounded by transfers playing in their first game together. USC invested in its defense in the offseason, too, and should keep SJSU to single digits.

USC has had no trouble blowing out Group of 6 programs as of late. Since 2023, the Trojans have outscored their five G6 opponents by an average of 45.4 points, beating four of them by 39+ points. San Jose State is trending in the wrong direction, too, going 1-6 ATS down the stretch last year and ranking 137th nationally in returning production (24%).