Southern California @ Notre Dame preview

Last Meeting ( Nov 27, 2010 ) Notre Dame 20, Southern California 16

THE STORY: One of the nation's most prestigious rivalries will be renewed when Notre Dame hosts Southern Cal in the first night game at Notre Dame Stadium since 1990. The Fighting Irish earned a 20-16 victory in Los Angeles last November to snap a string of eight straight losses against the Trojans.

TV: NBC. LINE: Notre Dame -9.5

ABOUT USC (5-1): The Trojans have relied heavily on the passing combination of quarterback Matt Barkley (1,782 yards, 16 touchdowns, four interceptions) and wide receiver Robert Woods (60 catches, 783 yards), but it was the defense that carried the day in last week's 30-9 victory at California by forcing five turnovers. Offensive tackle Matt Kalil, who has blocked four kicks this season, anchors an offensive line that has allowed Barkley to be sacked only four times.

ABOUT NOTRE DAME (4-2): The Fighting Irish have had little trouble moving the ball, but they rank second-to-last nationally in punt returns (0.3 yards). Coach Brian Kelly will attempt to rectify the situation by using his top playmaker - wide receiver Michael Floyd - on runbacks this week. Floyd ranks among the national leaders in receptions (8.83, tied for sixth) and receiving yardage (106.5, 13th). Notre Dame has been turnover-free the last two games after committing 15 in four September contests.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. USC has won a school-record 13 straight non-conference road games and is 4-0 in its last four trips to Notre Dame Stadium.

2. The Irish are 60-15-2 all-time coming off an off week, but 5-10-2 in such games against USC.

3. The Trojans could be without leading rusher Marc Tyler, who dislocated his shoulder against California. Curtis McNeal is expected to start in his place.

PREDICTION: Notre Dame 23, USC 21 - Both teams look to be much improved after an ugly contest a year ago, setting up the possibility of another classic. If the Fighting Irish can continue to avoid costly giveaways, they should be able to pull it out at home.