GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Notre Dame rushing offense vs. USC rushing defense. If the Fighting Irish can control the running game as they have for most of the season, USC could be in big trouble. Notre Dame running back Dexter Williams has led the way with an eye-popping season (126 carries, 844 yards, 11 TDs) in which he has averaged 6.7 yards per carry. The Trojans must find a way to slow down Notre Dame’s ground attack to win time of possession and maybe the game.
DRAFT SLANT
–DE Julian Okwara will have another opportunity to impress scouts and a national TV audience during a prime-time matchup. Okwara has been impressive as he has posted a career-high 36 tackles, including 10.5 for loss. Throw in a team-high 21 quarterback hurries and six sacks, and it is easy to envision him playing on Sundays.
ROSTER REPORT:
–LB Drue Tranquill continues to play with a broken hand, but he is not expected to be limited against USC.
–WR Kevin Austin has been cleared to return. He has five catches for 90 yards on the season.
–TE Cole Kmet is expected to play in his fourth consecutive game despite a lingering ankle injury. Kmet has seen a diminished role in the passing game with only three receptions in his last three contests.
