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Kevin Zimmerman, Arizona Desert Swarm: Arizona traditionally has played USC very well, even last year in a 48-41 shootout win for the Trojans. I think both teams will be able to put up points once again, and I think the turnover battle will tell the story in this one. USC has been much penalized this year, and the game's in Tucson, so I think USC has a legitimate reason to be on upset alert.
Kyle Kensing, Arizona Desert Swarm: Arizona and USC have had competitive games dating as far back as 2007. Even in 2005, UA gave SC as much of a challenge as anyone who wasn't Texas (or Fresno State, weird). I expect this to be similar. USC should get points, as this is the best passing attack UA has faced and will face all year. Marqise Lee could do major damage a la Oklahoma State's Tracy Moore in Week 2.
It's going to be a high scoring one, though I suspect Arizona's defense is much improved from last year when the Trojans never had to punt. Could be a last-team-with-possession-wins kinda affair, nevertheless.
Adam Butler, Pac Hoops & Pacific Takes: It’s an intriguing matchup because they don’t, toe-to-toe, matchup really. USC plays more traditionally. Arizona spreads things out. Thunder v. Lightning. My prediction? There’s still some residual pissed-off left over from whatever happened in Eugene and RichRod and crew aren’t about to let a high profile game get away from them again. I like the Cats (which generally goes without saying).
Scott Coleman, SB Nation Arizona: Perhaps I'm crazy, but I think USC is living too much off their name and hype this season. They are undoubtedly a good team, but 9th in the nation? I'm not so sure. Their best win right now is over 3-4 Washington and they looked bad against the lone ranked team they've faced (Stanford).
I see a ton of points being scored in this one. Similar to the Oregon State game earlier this year, I think whichever team wins the special teams battle takes this one home. The 'Cats are probably a little better on offense, and the Trojans are better defensively. Add in the ZonaZoo and home crowd advantage for UA, and I think we'll see a great game.
I'll take Arizona 48-45 in a wild upset special.