USC Aims for Another Upset at Indiana: Trojans vs. Hoosiers Final Prediction

Indiana’s quarterback situation

Indiana won its first national title in 2025 with Fernando Mendoza at quarterback. After Mendoza’s departure, the Hoosiers chose TCU transfer Josh Hoover to start, but Grant Wilson has also been involved following Hoover’s injury against Minnesota.

USC coach Lincoln Riley said he did not expect the offense to change radically based on which quarterback plays. Hoover has dealt with injuries this season, leaving his availability central to Indiana’s plans for the game.

Receivers bring major matchups

USC’s targets include freshman Trent Mosley, Tanook Hines and first-year receiver Kayden Dixon-Wyatt. Jayden Maiava is the Trojans’ quarterback. Indiana counters with Charlie Becker and transfer Nick Marsh. USC cornerback Chasen Johnson praised Becker’s physicality, speed and experience, while Marsh has earned attention as a deep threat and ranked No. 12 on Mel Kiper Jr.’s big board as of Nov. 13.

Defense shapes the prediction

USC’s defense had its strongest performance yet in a 30-18 win over then-No. 2 Ohio State, limiting Jeremiah Smith to 83 yards and recording two sacks against Luke Fahey. Defensive coordinator Gary Patterson may use a similar approach against Indiana.

The Hoosiers have allowed 30 points only once in 38 games under Cignetti, who has led the team to a 35-3 overall record. Indiana remains the betting favorite, though its spread moved from 9.5 points to 7.5, and its projected chance of winning fell from 86.7 percent to 74 percent. The prediction backs USC to win, with the Trojans’ confidence from the Ohio State upset carrying into Bloomington.