5 bold predictions for Michigan football vs. USC: Can Justice Haynes do it again?

Five bold predictions for the Michigan football team against the USC Trojans.
Sep 20, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) hands the ball off to running back Justice Haynes (22) for a touchdown against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
Sep 20, 2025; Lincoln, Nebraska, USA; Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) hands the ball off to running back Justice Haynes (22) for a touchdown against the Nebraska Cornhuskers during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dylan Widger-Imagn Images | Dylan Widger-Imagn Images
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USC will run for under 100 yards

The USC pass offense is loaded with weapons. Ja'Kobi Lane has 13 receptions in four games this season for 278 yards. He leads the Big Ten in yards per catch (21.3).

However, one of the underrated aspects of the USC offense is the running game. Michigan runs for 237 yards per game. USC isn't far behind with 227. Against Purdue, Michigan State, and Illinois, the Trojans rushed for 198 yards per game.

This is a better running game than some Michigan football fans might realize. That's why stopping the run is where the game will be decided. If Michigan can make the Trojans one-dimensional, it will be easier to apply pressure on Maiava and that's how you beat USC.

Illinois is the only team to out-rush the Trojans this season, 171-126. That played a factor in the outcome. Michigan needs to do something similar. The Wolverines are allowing just 2.6 yards per rushing attempt and 77 yards total to opponents.

Wisconsin had some success running the ball. However, the front seven will get those issues fixed and the Wolverines will hold USC, and dynamic running back Jordan Waymond, who is averaging 107 yards per game, below 100 yards rushing.

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