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USC (12-1) vs Michigan (12-0)
- When: Jan 2 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: Crisler Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Where to watch: Peacock
(24) USC vs (2) Michigan Preview & Prediction
Spread: Michigan -22.5
Moneyline: Michigan (-5000)
Total: 170.0
Southern California Trojans Betting Breakdown
Southern California enters Big Ten play knowing it faces a massive early test on the road. The Trojans have been productive offensively all season, averaging close to 90 points per game, and they rely heavily on tempo and shot making to stay competitive against elite opponents.
Since losing combo guard Rodney Rice to a season ending injury, USC has reshaped its offensive identity. Chad Baker Mazara has become the primary scoring engine, consistently attacking mismatches and carrying the scoring load. Ezra Ausar has also surged, providing secondary scoring and rebounding after bouncing back from a rough stretch earlier in conference play.
The recent addition of veteran guard Kam Woods adds stability and ball movement, but USC still struggles defensively against teams with size and depth. That weakness becomes magnified against opponents who dominate the glass and protect the rim.
From a betting perspective, USC is capable of scoring enough to avoid a total collapse, but sustaining defensive stops for forty minutes in Ann Arbor is a tall order.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Breakdown
Michigan has looked unstoppable to start the season, combining explosive offense with elite defensive efficiency. The Wolverines are scoring in waves, rotating fresh bodies without sacrificing pace or physicality. Eight players averaging meaningful points has made them extremely difficult to game plan against.
Yaxel Lendeborg anchors the frontcourt with efficient scoring and rebounding, while Aday Mara controls the paint defensively and alters shots at a high rate. Michigan’s rebounding edge and defensive discipline have allowed them to pull away early in games and never look back.
Michigan’s home court advantage only amplifies their strengths. The Wolverines push tempo, dominate the boards, and suffocate opponents defensively once separation is created.
From a gambling standpoint, Michigan has consistently covered large numbers due to their ability to turn close games into blowouts quickly.
Prediction and Betting Outlook
USC’s offense should have moments, but Michigan’s depth, rebounding, and defensive efficiency give them control of this matchup from start to finish. Expect USC to score early before Michigan gradually imposes its will on both ends of the floor.
Final Score: Michigan 99, Southern California 74
Lean: Michigan -22.5
Total: Over 170.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
