USC lost 24-7 to Wisconsin; 2026 college football week 11 expert picks: Can Indiana make the spread?
Indiana’s offense has changed
Indiana’s offense looks different from the championship group led by Fernando Mendoza last season. Josh Hoover transferred to the Hoosiers but has been inconsistent and was benched in their latest game; he is also not fully healthy, which may have contributed to that decision.
Indiana’s rushing attack ranks 79th in success rate, after being among the top groups last season. Those struggles add uncertainty to a matchup in which the Hoosiers are expected to rely on their defense.
USC faces road questions
USC has continued to struggle outside Southern California. Three weeks ago, the Trojans lost 24-7 to Wisconsin. The matchup appears to favor Indiana’s defense against a USC defense described as poor. Still, the line has reached 10 points; the analysis says it would favor Indiana more strongly if the spread were 7 or 7.5.
Arizona and Utah concerns
The analysis also considers Arizona against Utah, saying the signs point toward an Arizona win but stopping short of backing the Wildcats. Arizona’s run defense raises concerns, with weak stuff-rate and yards-before-contact numbers.
Key points
- Indiana’s offense is less reliable than last season, and Josh Hoover was benched in the Hoosiers’ latest game.
- USC’s 24-7 loss to Wisconsin highlights its struggles outside Southern California.
- The analysis sees Indiana as a possible winner but is wary of laying 10 points.
- Arizona’s run defense and Utah’s pass rush shape the matchup concerns.