LSU vs. USC Betting: Expect High Point Totals for Tigers and Trojans?

 Aug 31, 2024, 05:30 PM

Week 1 of the 2024 college football season features a prime-time Sunday night clash between the No. 23 USC Trojans and No. 13 LSU Tigers, set for 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC/ESPN+.

Both teams are introducing new quarterbacks to replace Heisman Trophy winners: Garrett Nussmeier steps in for LSU, taking over from 2023 winner Jayden Daniels, while Miller Moss takes the reins at USC, replacing 2022 winner Caleb Williams. USC also kicks off its first season in the Big Ten Conference, while LSU begins its campaign in an expanded 16-team SEC.

These two storied programs have only faced each other twice before, with their last meeting in 1984. They’ll meet this time at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas for a neutral-site showdown.

*Odds as of publish time via ESPN BET*

**The Lines:**

- **Spread:** LSU (-4)
- **Moneyline:** LSU (-185), USC (+155)
- **Over/Under:** 64.5

**First-Half Spread:**

- LSU -2.5 (-120), USC +2.5 (Even)

**Team Total Points:**

- LSU: Over 34.5 (-115), Under 34.5 (-115)
- USC: Over 29.5 (-120), Under 29.5 (-110)

Miller Moss threw six touchdown passes in his last start. *Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports*

**Pick of the Game: USC +4 vs. LSU**

With both teams introducing new quarterbacks, the question for bettors is which team can be trusted more. I’m backing the Trojans and Miller Moss. Moss brings significant college experience, having served as a backup for several years and making a strong impression in his Holiday Bowl start, where he threw six touchdowns and passed for 372 yards. He fits seamlessly into USC’s high-powered offense. Moreover, I have confidence in USC head coach Lincoln Riley, known for his innovative offensive strategies. Riley’s spread offense is designed to enhance quarterback performance with aggressive downfield passing and quick decision-making.

LSU and head coach Brian Kelly also have a solid reputation, but the absence of dynamic quarterback Jayden Daniels is a significant blow. Daniels wasn't just a dual-threat quarterback; he was the key playmaker for LSU. He set an LSU record for rushing yards by a quarterback in a season (1,134) and delivered remarkable performances, including a historic game against Florida where he passed for 606 total yards and set an SEC record. Replacing him will be a considerable challenge.

Although Garrett Nussmeier shows promise, LSU’s offense may face difficulties adjusting to a new leader during this transition. Additionally, with the game taking place at a neutral site in Las Vegas, LSU’s typical home-field advantage is neutralized. Given these factors, I recommend taking USC and the four points.
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