USC and Notre Dame continue their historic rivalry in a Saturday night showdown between two unranked teams. Television coverage begins at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC.
How to watch USC vs. Notre Dame: Preview, TV schedule, odds and more
Can the Trojans win again under Coach O?
After an opening win over Hawaii, the Trojans’ season took a drastic turn, with losses to Washington State and Arizona State in their first two Pac-12 games of the year. That led to the firing of head coach Lane Kiffin, with defensive line coach Ed Orgeron taking over as interim head coach. In the team’s first game under Coach O, it played extremely well, beating visiting Arizona by a touchdown.
Notre Dame has also had a disappointing year of sorts, but its only two losses have come to ranked opponents -- Michigan (no longer ranked) and Oklahoma. Last time out, the Fighting Irish beat ranked Arizona State -- the same Sun Devil team that blew out the Trojans -- and will be looking for a convincing win in the rivalry game.
The numbers
Rankings and records: Notre Dame received votes in all three polls, while USC did not. Both teams are 4-2. The Irish hold a 44-35-5 lead in the all-time series, but the Trojans have won five out of the last seven games between the two schools.
Vegas: The Irish are 3-point favorites. OddsShark has more.
Weather: It’s going to be cold and rainy in South Bend.
Three names to know
Ed Orgeron. The interim head coach has the Trojans looking like a completely different team, playing with a newfound energy and confidence that could carry them to a bowl game.
Tommy Rees. Notre Dame's quarterback has struggled, throwing six interceptions so far this season, and will need to hold on to the ball if the Irish want to win this game.
Marqise Lee. The star wide receiver has been out with an injury, but could make a major impact in the Trojans' passing game.
Two things at stake
USC got a big win in Game 1 under Coach O, and a rivalry victory would be huge for its momentum.
Like USC, Notre Dame is hoping to regain its old glory. After a win over ranked Arizona State last week, a win here might propel the Irish back into the Top 25.
How to witness
TV: 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC
Radio: All of USC’s games are on ESPN Radio. Here’s a list of Notre Dame affiliates.
Online streaming: NBC Sports Live Extra. XFINITY customers can watch the game here.
Further reading
For all your USC coverage, head to Conquest Chronicles. For Notre Dame’s perspective, check out One Foot Down.
More from SB Nation college football:
See More:
