GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: After a three-game streak holding opponents below 100 yards rushing — including two games in which it allowed fewer than 2.7 yards per carry — the USC defense surrendered 200-plus yard in each of the past two contests. Arizona State RB Eno Benjamin averaged 6.4 yards per carry against the Trojans, for a total of 185.
Benjamin ranks third in the Pac-12 in rushing yards, and one of the players leading him is Oregon State’s Jermar Jefferson. Containing Jefferson, the first Pac-12 player to reach 1,000 yards on the season, is critical to slowing Oregon State.
DRAFT SLANT
–C Toa Lobendahn has played every position on the offensive line in his time at USC, but the majority of it at center. Struggles in exchanges earlier this season contributed to a few turnovers and critical losses of yardage, though the issue appears to be ironed out. Lobendahn should be able to assert USC’s physical advantage this week against an Oregon State defense ranked last in the conference against the run.
ROSTER REPORT:
–QB JT Daniels remained in concussion protocol Monday after missing much of the second half Oct. 20 at Utah, and the entirety of the last Saturday’s game against Arizona State. Coach Clay Helton said Daniels will start at Oregon State if he is cleared to play.
–S Talanoa Hufanga, USC’s leading tackler, sustained a broken collarbone last week. He is done for the season.
–OT Chuma Edoga was taken out in the first half against Arizona State, and is questionable for Saturday due to a knee injury.
–LB Cameron Smith remains questionable due to a leg injury. He missed the Oct. 13 game against Colorado, most of the Oct. 20 game at Utah, and last week’s loss to Arizona State.
–CB/S Isaac Taylor-Stuart suffered an ankle injury and is questionable for this week.
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