SportsLine's model has just unveiled its Week 1 college football predictions for the LSU Tigers vs. USC Trojans in the Vegas Kickoff Classic this Sunday.
USC will debut as a Big Ten member against an SEC powerhouse when they face the LSU Tigers on Sunday evening. This matchup, part of the 2024 Modelo Vegas Kickoff Classic, could serve as a preview for a potential College Football Playoff game. Lincoln Riley, entering his third year with the Trojans, led them to an 8-5 record last season in their final year in the Pac-12. Similarly, Brian Kelly is also in his third year with LSU, having achieved 10-win seasons in each of his first two years in Baton Rouge.
The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. According to the latest odds from SportsLine consensus, LSU is favored by 4.5 points, with the over/under set at 66.5 total points. Before placing any bets on USC vs. LSU, check out the SportsLine Projection Model’s college football predictions and betting advice.
The model simulates every FBS college football game 10,000 times and has proven highly profitable, generating over $2,000 in profit for $100 bettors on its top-rated picks against the spread. It also had a successful 13-9 season with its top-rated spread picks last year.
For this game, the model has made its predictions and locked in its picks. Visit SportsLine now to see the model’s recommendations. Here are the current odds and betting lines for LSU vs. USC:
- **Spread:** LSU -4.5
- **Over/Under:** 66.5 points
- **Money Line:** LSU -185, USC +153
- **USC:** The Trojans are 2-8 against the spread in their last 10 games.
- **LSU:** The Over hit in 12 of 13 games for the Tigers last season, giving them the highest Over percentage (92.3%) in FBS.
**Why LSU Can Cover:**
LSU’s biggest boost comes from their coaching staff with the addition of Blake Baker as the new defensive coordinator. Baker, who previously improved Missouri’s scoring defense significantly, will work to elevate LSU’s defense with the help of standout linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. Perkins, who has been a dominant force, should challenge USC’s offense, especially with USC’s inexperienced quarterback and revamped offensive line.
**Why USC Can Cover:**
USC’s loaded 2023 freshmen class, including top recruits like Zachariah Branch and Duce Robinson, will have a bigger role this season. Branch, a dynamic player with a standout freshman year, and Robinson, a towering receiver with explosive speed, are poised to make a significant impact. Robinson, who had limited catches but impressive yardage last year, along with Branch's all-around play, adds a potent offensive threat for USC.
**How to Make LSU vs. USC Picks:**
SportsLine’s model favors the Over, projecting 69 combined points. It also indicates that one side of the spread covers well over 50% of the time. For detailed picks and to see which side of the spread is favored, visit SportsLine.
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