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USC (4-0) at Illinois (3-1)
- When: Sep 27 2025, 12:00 PM
- Where: Memorial Stadium, Champaign, IL
- Where to watch: FOX
- Last Meeting: USC 49-17, January 1st, 2008
(21) USC vs (23) Illinois Preview & Prediction
Spread: USC -7.0
Moneyline: USC (-250)
Total: 61.0
USC Trojans Betting Outlook
The No. 21 USC Trojans (4-0, 2-0 Big Ten) are hitting their stride at the right time. Jayden Maiava has been exceptional under center, averaging over 300 passing yards per game without throwing an interception this season. Wideout Makai Lemon continues to be his top option, coming off a season-best 127 yards and a score against Michigan State.
Head coach Lincoln Riley praised Maiava’s poise and decision-making, and it’s showing in USC’s balanced offensive approach. With weapons everywhere and a quarterback who takes care of the ball, USC enters Champaign as a 7-point road favorite.
If the defense can hold Illinois’ offense in check early, the Trojans are in a strong spot to cover the number.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Outlook
The No. 23 Fighting Illini (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) are trying to regroup after being blasted 63-10 by Indiana in a top-20 matchup. The loss ended their seven-game win streak, and to make matters worse, Illinois will now be without All-American defensive back Xavier Scott for most of the season.
Quarterback Luke Altmyer has been efficient, nine touchdown passes without an interception, but he was limited to 146 passing yards against Indiana. Wideout Hank Beatty continues to be his most reliable weapon, leading the team with 302 receiving yards. Illinois coach Bret Bielema insists his team can rebound, but they’ll need more balance and resilience to hang with USC’s explosive offense.
Prediction & Betting Angle
This game sets up as a classic bounce-back opportunity for Illinois at home, but the absence of Scott in the secondary is a huge concern against one of the country’s best passing attacks. The Trojans’ ability to strike quickly through the air may be too much for Illinois to handle.
With the line at USC -7.0 and the total at 61.0, the Trojans look positioned to win by double digits and keep the under firmly in play.
Final Score: USC 34, Illinois 24
Lean: USC -7.0
Total: Under 61.0
- NCAA Football Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
