Records: Arizona State 1-3, 0-1 in Pac-12; USC 4-0, 2-0
Odds: USC -26.5
Adam Grosbard (OC Register)
Arizona State update: The Sun Devils are in a complete tailspin as they come to Los Angeles. Last week, following a home loss to Eastern Michigan, Arizona State finally fired head coach Herm Edwards, whose days in Tempe always felt numbered with an NCAA investigation hanging over him.
Saturday, in the first game since the firing, Arizona State lost big 34-13 to Utah. … The Sun Devils were never able to get the run game going. Xazavian Valladay (1) gained 30 yards on eight rushes, but this was negated by the five sacks surrendered by the ASU offensive line. … The Sun Devils are 11th in the Pac-12 in total offense, gaining 348 yards per game.
USC update: The Trojans return to the Coliseum riding a wave of emotions following a 17-14, Houdini-act win over Oregon State in Corvallis. After three weeks of consternation, the Trojan defense proved it can hang with its high-powered counterpart. USC held the proficient Oregon State attack to two touchdowns — one on a short field — and 320 yards, both well below the Beavers’ season averages.
USC is tied for first in the nation with 14 turnovers gained this season, without allowing a single one. … Running back Travis Dye had his third straight game with 100 yards rushing, taking 19 carries for 133 yards and a touchdown. … Wide receiver Tahj Washington (below) has found his role in the offense, gaining 67 yards on six passes and serving as the only reliable option for much of the game against the Beavers.
USC lost to ASU last year 31-16 in Tempe, the first of four straight losses to end their 4-8 season.
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