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BYU running back Tyler Allgeier runs upfield during the 34-17 Cougar win over Georgia Southern at Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia, on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021. (Courtesy BYU Photo)

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BYU defensive lineman Caden Haws makes a tackle during the 34-17 Cougar win over Georgia Southern at Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia, on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021. (Courtesy BYU Photo)

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BYU running back Lopini Katoa celebrates scoring a touchdown during the 34-17 Cougar win over Georgia Southern at Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia, on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021. (Courtesy BYU Photo)

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The BYU offensive line gets set for a play during the 34-17 Cougar win over Georgia Southern at Paulson Stadium in Statesboro, Georgia, on Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021. (Courtesy BYU Photo)

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Here is Jared Lloyd’s look at the BYU-USC matchups, including his prediction for the final score for Saturday’s game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles:

BYU offense vs. USC defense

The Cougars made some nice plays but weren’t as crisp as they wanted to be in last week’s win at Georgia Southern. Jaren Hall and Co. will face a Trojan defensive until that has allowed at least 31 points in each of its last five games.

Edge: BYU

BYU defense vs. Georgia Southern offense

The Trojans have plenty of offensive weapons but the execution has been lacking as USC has struggled. The Cougar defense will miss a lot of elite talent, which means the BYU depth will face another huge test.

Edge: USC

Coaching

Cougar head coach Kalani Sitake has kept his team playing well as it looks to get its 10th win of the season. USC’s coaching situation has been an ongoing distraction after head coach Clay Helton was fired in September. Donte Williams hasn’t been able to really get the Trojans on track since taking over as the interim head coach.

Edge: BYU

Intangibles

BYU plays in the Coliseum, which is traditionally a great venue. The Trojan fans, however, are accustomed to success and haven’t been as supportive during this season. The start will be big, since a big Cougar push could make it really hard for USC to stay confident.

Edge: BYU

Key Matchup: BYU running back Tyler Allgeier vs. the USC defensive front

The Trojans have some excellent athletes on the defensive line who will certainly test the Cougar protection and blocking schemes. It will be critical for Allgeier to find lanes, break tackles, and set the BYU offense up in better position or succeed in short-yardage situatons. He’s been doing that all season and will again have a lot of opportunities.

Edge: BYU

Prediction

USC is going to show some pride and make some plays for its seniors, but BYU is going to be the better team. The Trojans will make some big plays and put points on the board, but the Cougars will execute more consistently and again dominate in the second half. That will be enough for BYU to complete its season sweep of Pac-12 opposition.

BYU 38, USC 24

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