The Vegas Kickoff Classic features plenty of headlines from both sides. For LSU, the Jayden Daniels era is officially closed and an uncertain era has begun in Baton Rouge with Garrett Nussmeier starting at Quarterback for the Tigers.
This USC team that is once again highly ranked with plenty of expectations surrounding their new starting QB Miller Moss after the Caleb Williams era ended in somewhat of a disappointment.
Although a new QB is the face of So Cal, their wideout Zach Branch has true WR1 potential and should take a huge leap this season similar to the ones Brendan Rice and Jordan Addison took in back-to-back seasons.
Mixing speed with athleticism, Zach Branch will be the standout performer in Vegas - his hometown. The Bishop Gorman product scored twice in his Freshman season at SC, while providing some rushing ability as a jet sweep threat. In this potential high scoring game, look for Miller Moss and Coach Riley to scheme Branch open in the red zone and for big gains against an LSU defense with holes.
USC not only puts up points, but gives up points. Last season they gave up 25 or less points just twice, and against LSU’s explosive wide receivers it’s difficult to believe they can hold the Tigers to less than 30 points.
As one of the better backups in CFB last season, Miller Moss should have some magic himself, showing some promise in their bowl win against Louisville last season throwing for 6 touchdowns.
While both QB’s rushing upside is limited, the passing games should come out strong especially with Lincoln Riley on the USC side.
LSU is bound to score at least two touchdowns before halftime, and with a newly appointed starting QB, RB, and WR1, there is a good chance the USC offense stalls a few times early on in this game.
After losing their Week 1 game in 2023 to Florida State with 31 unanswered points coming from the Seminoles, expect Brian Kelly and the Tigers to come out with a different mindset and gameplan this year against the Trojans and take the early lead in this kickoff classic.