No. 3 USC (6-0) at Oregon State (4-3)

by user The Beast

As the Southern California Trojans sat idle this past weekend, Michigan overtook the Men of Troy as the No. 2 team in the BCS standings with their 20-6 home victory over Iowa.

However, since Michigan plays top-ranked Ohio State on Nov. 18, it appears likely that the Trojans likely will make the national championship game if they can finish the regular season undefeated. It is quite possible, especially as the Trojans own a sizable lead on fourth-place West Virginia.

However, in the midst of all the BCS chaos, many are wondering whether USC is actually worthy of a shot at the BCS crown considering that its last three victories have all come by seven points or less against unranked opponents. Only five of the team's previous 48 victories were not by at least seven points.

Keys to the Game

Get Moore. The Trojans must be able to get in the face and pressure Oregon State Quarteerback Matt Moore. So far, this year he has thrown six interceptions and has been sacked fifteen times. Trojan Defensive End, Lawrence Jackson must do his part and record is first sack of the season.

Air It Out. For the first time this year it appears as if Booty will have a fully healthy receiving corpse to throw to. Booty has struggled during the second half of the past two games. Look for John David to connect with receivers, Dwayne Jarrett and Steve Smith early and often to build up his confidence.

Get Mad. For the second straight week another team passed the Trojans in the polls. First it was Florida and last week Michigan did the same. The Trojans must face the Beavers with something to prove as they have struggled mightly in their past four games. To impress the pollsters, the Trojans must win convincinly.

Final Forecast: USC finally shows a great all around performance, with a solid victory.

USC 38, Oregon State 7