USC (1-1) vs. No. 7 Stanford (1-0), at Stanford Stadium. TV: Channel 7, 5 p.m.
Most intriguing story line: This, more than USC’s opener against Alabama or an easy recovery against Utah State, is likely to provide the best barometer of Coach Clay Helton’s early efforts. Stanford has been the class of the Pac-12 Conference in recent seasons, reaching three of the past four Rose Bowls. A win validates Helton and makes USC a conference favorite. A loss makes next week’s game against Utah critical.
USC pass offense vs.