The focus of the Big Ten shifts to Lincoln on Saturday night as #23 USC faces a revitalized Nebraska team that is beginning to resemble its former self. The Trojans come in with a record of 5-2, seeking a rebound victory after their loss to Notre Dame, while the Cornhuskers stand at 6-2 and remain undefeated on their home turf. This sets up for some exciting #23 USC vs. Nebraska picks!

This game holds considerable importance for both the Big Ten West standings and the broader national landscape. USC still has a chance to qualify for the conference championship game, provided they can rectify the defensive mistakes that have led to two losses in their last three outings. On the other hand, Nebraska has the opportunity to validate its status with a significant win against a ranked team during prime time.

#23 USC vs. Nebraska Predictions for College Football Week 10, Saturday, 11/1

Lincoln Riley’s team will aim to set the pace early, utilizing Maiava’s quick release and pre-snap motion to counter Nebraska’s pressure schemes. Anticipate USC to incorporate numerous RPOs and short routes to Makai Lemon to steer clear of lengthy plays that could expose the offensive line.

Nebraska’s strategy is more direct — run the ball, control the clock, and compel USC to adopt a patient approach. If Emmett Johnson can exceed 20 carries and the Huskers maintain manageable third-down situations, they’ll find themselves in a great position as the game progresses, which our #23 USC vs. Nebraska predictions have faith in.

 

 

 

#23 USC vs. Nebraska Spread Pick: Cornhuskers +6.5 (-111 at Novig)

Let’s begin with the obvious — USC boasts a more talented roster. Jayden Maiava has performed exceptionally well at quarterback, amassing 2,180 yards with 15 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions. Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane create one of the stronger receiving duos in the Big Ten, while their backs add essential balance to the running game. On paper, the Trojans’ offense appears well-equipped to secure a comfortable victory in this matchup.

However, Nebraska tends to avoid playing in “comfortable” games — particularly when at home. The Cornhuskers have thrived this season by pushing their opponents into tight, late-game situations. They hold a 6-2 record but could very well be 8-0 with a few fortunate breaks. Five of their last six games have been decided by a single possession, and their physical style of play often disrupts high-tempo teams like USC.

QB Dylan Raiola has thrown for 1,909 yards and 17 touchdowns, operating behind an offensive line that has faced protection challenges yet still manages to advance the ball. Running back Emmett Johnson has been the driving force of the offense with 837 yards and 9 touchdowns, and he’s set to face a USC defense that has struggled against the run in recent weeks. This context is where the spread pick begins to take shape.

Nebraska has a straightforward strategy: maintain close games, manage the pace, and let the home crowd unsettle opposing quarterbacks. This approach has proven effective at home. While the Huskers' defense may give ground, it seldom falters within the red zone. USC cannot afford to rely on field goals — a challenge that has hindered them in both of their losses this season.

Even when USC's offense gains momentum, the defense has not been able to keep up. The Trojans concede an average of 26 points per game and have allowed over 400 yards in five out of seven games. Nebraska may lack explosiveness, but they are adept at seizing opportunities — and if Raiola plays a clean game, the Huskers can remain competitive well into the fourth quarter.

Anticipate that Matt Rhule's team will heavily utilize Johnson early on, aiming to exhaust the Trojans' defensive line and create opportunities for play-action passes later in the game. A well-rounded game strategy will keep Maiava and the USC offense off the field, reducing their chances and shortening the overall game.

While USC possesses the offensive strength to secure a victory, covering nearly a touchdown on the road in Lincoln is a significant challenge. It wouldn’t be surprising if USC manages to win by a score of, say, 31-27, but the Cornhuskers' tenacity, running game, and home-field advantage make taking the points too enticing to overlook when making #23 USC vs. Nebraska predictions.

 

 

 

How To Watch #23 USC vs. Nebraska College Football Week 10

  • Date: Saturday, November 1, 2025
  • Time: 7:30 PM ET
  • TV: NBC
  • Location: Memorial Stadium, Lincoln, Nebraska

#23 USC vs. Nebraska Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Novig has released the latest #23 USC vs. Nebraska odds for the matchup scheduled for Saturday afternoon. This update follows our previous discussion regarding our #23 USC vs. Nebraska predictions:

  • Money Line (ML): Trojans -210 | Cornhuskers +198
  • Spread: Trojans -6.5 (+105) | Cornhuskers +6.5 (-111)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 58.5 (O: -107 | U: -101)

 

 

 

#23 USC vs. Nebraska Injury Report & Latest News

USC Injury Report

  • K. O'Connor (OG) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • P. Brown (CB) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • F. Boucard (DL) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • C. Chittenden (K) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • J. Jarrett (DL) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • E. Paige (OG) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • E. Sanders (RB) – Out, Knee
  • W. Jordan (RB) – Out, Ankle
  • C. Johnson (CB) – Out, Knee

Nebraska Injury Report

  • T. Terry (DL) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • J. Parker (RB) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • J. Marks (OG) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • D. Bell (WR) – Questionable, Knee
  • M. Hartzog Jr. (CB) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • G. Gottula (OG) – Questionable, Undisclosed
  • C. Connealy (DL) – Out, Undisclosed
  • N. Fennessy (OG) – Out, Undisclosed
  • M. Simpson (DL) – Out, Undisclosed
  • T. Uhlir (RB) – Out, Undisclosed
  • J. Bonner (WR) – Out, Undisclosed
  • G. Pyle (OG) – Out, Knee
  • B. Hill (CB) – Out, Knee
  • G. Stenger (LB) – Out, Undisclosed
  • M. Markway (TE) – Out, Knee

 

 

 

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