The Stanford Cardinal open the Pac-12 season on Saturday when the play host to USC, and while some are expecting the Trojans to pull the upset, we certainly know better. Here are three reasons why Stanford in guaranteed to beat USC this weekend:
3) Stanford defense vs. Max Browne
Browne has had problems moving the USC offense this season, and Stanford's defense will be another tough test. He has turned the ball over in each of his first two starts - and Stanford's defense is ready to take advantage. Despite losing five starters on defense, the Cardinal limited Kansas State to just 335 yards of total offense, recorded eight sacks and forced two turnovers. With an extra week of preparation for this game, expect them to to put forth another dominating performance against USC.
2) USC's lack of success against ranked teams
USC is one of college football's traditional powers, but they have not been successful against the best teams they've faced of late. They're just 2-6 in their last eight games against ranked opponents, and are also 2-6 in their last eight games against Stanford. It would be hard to see the Trojans breaking out of that slump soon.
1) Christian McCaffrey
Another of preseason Heisman favorite trio, McCaffrey took care of business against Kansas State, accounting for 210 total yards - including 128 yards and two scores on the ground. The Trojans don't have to be reminded of the impact he can have on a game after he gashed them for 312 total yards and two total touchdowns. The way USC's defense was shredded by Alabama shows they haven't gotten better - expect him to destroy USC's defense again
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