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1.) Stephen Carr Breaks a 40+ yard Touchdown
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Aca’Cedric Ware has been getting the most touches at running back this year but Stephen Carr has done more with what he’s been given. Carr has a team high 40-yard run on the season but was tackled before reaching the end zone. He had multiple big plays that went for touchdowns last season and it’s only a matter of time before he breaks one this season. Carr is easily one of the best playmakers on the Trojans offense. This Saturday is going to be the day Carr makes magic and gets into the end zone on a 40-yard or longer touchdown.
2.) Special Teams Blocks a Punt
One thing that the USC special teams has done well at over the last few seasons is blocking punts. They’ve gotten close on a few punts so far this year but haven’t connected. The Trojans will need to make sure not to be too aggressive though. They were aggressive against UNLV in week one and the Rebels took advantage of them, faking a punt and getting a first down. If the Trojans can block a punt it will gain a huge amount of momentum, which will be a vital part of winning this game.
3.) Defense Comes Up with an Interception
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Despite dealing with injuries at the safety position, the USC secondary has played immaculately this season. They’ve allowed less than 200 yards passing in each game this year and that’s expected to continue against Texas. The only negative aspect of the Trojans secondary so far is that they don’t have any interceptions. A few guys have had opportunities to get a pick but have dropped the ball each time, including Olaijah Griffin against UNLV. It’s only a matter of time before the USC defense comes up with an interception, whether it be Iman Marshall, Marvell Tell, Greg Johnson, or even Cam Smith.
4.) Defense Records 4+ Sacks
The USC pass rush started out the season strong, recording five sacks against UNLV. Their next game against Stanford they struggled and weren’t able to get to the quarterback a single time. One of defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast’s biggest strengths is his ability to make proper adjustments. Which is why it’s anticipated that the Trojans pass rush will once again find their footing and get to the quarterback. Expect new schemes and blitz packages because this defense will be coming in hot.
5.) JT Daniels and Amon-Ra St. Brown Connect for Two Touchdowns
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Having been teammates at Mater Dei High School, JT Daniels and Amon-Ra St. Brown came to USC with chemistry that was already developed. In their last year of high school, they connected on 72 receptions for 1,320 yards and 20 touchdowns. They also won the California State Championship as well as the National Championship so not only did they have a perfect connection, they also knew how to win together. The dynamic duo entered their first game of their collegiate careers against USC without missing a beat. Daniels completed seven passes for 98 yards to St. Brown. Unfortunately, they hit a road block against Stanford and connect on just two passes for 39 yards. But, this Texas defense has struggled in their first couple games this season hence the reason why Daniels and St. Brown will connect for two touchdowns.