On Sunday night, LSU and USC will meet for just the third time in their storied histories. Here are the latest odds and predictions for the LSU vs. USC game, providing insights into what to expect as these teams clash in a prime-time showdown.
On Sunday night, the USC Trojans will make their Big Ten debut in a prime-time matchup against the No. 13 LSU Tigers in Las Vegas. The No. 23 Trojans, who haven’t lost a season opener since 2016, seek to make a solid first impression in their new conference.
LSU, aiming to snap a four-game Week 1 losing streak dating back to their 2019 title season, will also adjust to life without Heisman winner Jayden Daniels. Both teams, replacing Heisman-winning quarterbacks, are set for a high-scoring showdown between these storied programs.
Under coach Lincoln Riley, USC finished 8-5 last season despite another stellar year from 2024 No. 1 draft pick Caleb Williams. The Trojans started strong but faltered late, losing five of their last six regular-season games, raising the pressure on Riley as USC transitions into the Big Ten. Meanwhile, LSU, fresh off a 10-3 season and a ReliaQuest Bowl win, is eyeing a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff, though questions remain about their offense without Daniels and other key players.
LSU vs. USC Betting Preview
All LSU vs. USC odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of Friday, Aug. 30, 2024.
- Moneyline
LSU -185 / USC +155
- Location
Allegiant Stadium | Las Vegas, Nevada
- Predicted Weather at Kick
88*
This prime-time matchup opened with LSU as a -6.5 favorite, but the line dropped to +4.5 for USC after some betting action. The total also saw movement, opening at 66.5 before dropping to 62 and then climbing back to 64.5. Last season, LSU was 6-6-0 against the spread, while USC went 4-9-0. Both teams frequently hit the over, with LSU doing so in 12 of 13 games and USC in 10 of 13. This game marks just the third meeting between these two storied programs.
Prediction for LSU vs. USC
If you listen to the national media, you’ll hear that the Trojans have lost too much offensive firepower and are burdened with defensive question marks, especially as they try to improve on last year’s poor performance. LSU’s offense is often portrayed as a well-oiled machine, expected to continue producing nearly 40 points per game, no matter who’s on the field.
However, I’m not entirely convinced. While new USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn might not have them looking like the ’85 Bears in Week 1, the Trojans won’t be as dreadful as last year.
The fact that the line moved from 6.5 to 4.5 suggests that bettors believe Coach Riley will have his team ready. There’s more faith in the Trojans than the media might indicate. Despite the doubts, I think USC is better prepared than many expect. Fight on!
Prediction: USC 34 – LSU 31
For all college football Week 1 lines, spread, odds, and totals, click here!
