Ahead of Indiana Showdown, USC Trojans Deliver Lengthy Injury Report

A pivotal Big Ten matchup

USC is preparing for a high-stakes game against Indiana in Bloomington. With a 7-2 record overall and a 4-2 mark in Big Ten play, the Trojans could strengthen their College Football Playoff hopes with a win.

Indiana, the defending Big Ten and national champion, enters at 8-1 overall and 5-1 in conference games. Both teams had a bye week to prepare for Saturday’s contest at Memorial Stadium.

The game begins at 12:30 p.m. PT and will air on CBS. USC quarterback Jayden Maiava and the Trojans’ receivers will face a strong Indiana defense.

Indiana weighs its quarterback choice

Indiana has had close games against Michigan and Minnesota, and quarterback play has been a concern. Josh Hoover has been inconsistent, with lingering injuries cited as a factor.

In the Hoosiers’ 23-16 overtime win over Minnesota, Hoover was replaced by backup Grant Wilson. Indiana coach Cignetti said the team would decide during the week who would play. He said, “We’ll see how the week plays out, and we’ll see who we trot out there.” Cignetti also called the Minnesota performance uncharacteristic and said Indiana would need to avoid repeating its mistakes.

Rankings and title stakes

Indiana fell from No. 4 to No. 9 in the College Football Playoff rankings on Tuesday, despite having a bye. USC is ranked No. 18, and Saturday’s result could affect both teams’ paths toward the playoff and Big Ten title.

FanDuel Sportsbook listed Indiana at -115 to win the conference, followed by UCLA at +290 and Oregon at +650. USC was tied with Ohio State at +1100. DraftKings Sportsbook’s Indiana spread moved from 7.5 points to 10.5.

The article also notes that the College Football Playoff is set to expand to 24 teams next season, with conference championship games eliminated. The final Big Ten title game is scheduled for Indianapolis on Dec. 5.