USC and Penn State coaches and players have visited Disneyland, eaten prime rib at Lawry’s and gone through a week-long media gauntlet. Now it’s time to play some football.
Two storied programs make their long-awaited returns to the “Granddaddy of them All,” at 2 p.m. Monday in the Rose Bowl. Here are five things to look for as USC and Penn State face off:
1. Super Sam Darnold
Despite losing his first start, against Utah, Darnold rebounded to lead the Trojans to eight straight wins and a Rose Bowl berth. His play-making ability, whether it’s with his arm or legs, brought USC from its rough 1-3 start to a very rosy finish in Pasadena.