USC vs. Arizona State: Keys To Victory

Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The stakes have been raised in the Pac-12 as USC prepares for Arizona State. With Oregon’s stunning (to some) loss to Arizona (USC’s opponent next week), the 3-1 Trojans face more than just a revenge game. A win vs. ASU sets up a potentially large leap for USC back into the thick of playoff conversation. Assuming that UCLA and Notre Dame, also Trojans scheduled opponents, continue their respective climbs in the rankings, USC has a stage set for post-season appearance.  And, it all begins Saturday versus the 3-1 Sun Devils.

Arizona St. faces a large issue coming into Saturday’s game and that lies in the status of Taylor Kelly, who will sit out with a foot injury. This brings a prime opportunity for the Trojans to take advantage of. With the USC defense coming off of a dominating performance versus Oregon St., the momentum can continue to swing in their favor.

The Trojans have a slight issue of their own. Wide receiver Ajene Harris suffered a strained hamstring that will sideline him from Saturday’s contest. Steven Mitchell will see an extended amount of playing time, so expect Mitchell to seize the moment to establish himself in the USC offense. “He’s a really good slot receiver,” Sarkisian said this week, “It’s just developing the confidence with him.”

Meanwhile, Victor Blackwell has still yet to return to the USC program. When asked if Blackwell was off the team, Sarkisian didn’t necessarily rule it out. “We’ll have to see. Whenever he wants to decide to come and meet with me, then we’ll talk about it.” As the receiver has been MIA for over two weeks, it’s likely that the Trojans may  have suffered yet another definite loss to their roster.

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One of the primary keys for a USC victory is the defense continuing their high level of play. USC is currently still the only FBS school in the nation that has not allowed a touchdown pass. Despite the loss of Taylor Kelly, the Sun Devils have a competent backup in Mike Bercovici. Bercovici threw for 488 yards with 3 touchdown passes versus UCLA in a losing effort. The Sun Devils are ranked 9th in total offense in the nation and will be prepared to push the pace with Bercovici under center. The defense will need to disrupt any rhythm or confidence that can potentially be established as they face yet another high-powered offense. The Trojans will also need to keep an eye out for D.J. Foster, ASU’s workhorse and Pac-12 leading rusher.

Speaking of rushing, “Tailback U” is back with a vengrance this season. Justin Davis and lead-rusher Javorius “Buck” Allen will need the ball early and often to open up the offense, as shown in the Oregon St. game. James Toland IV has established himself as a competent change of pace back who will definitely see his share of playing time for the Trojans. And, of course, Tre Madden, who has been out all season with an injury, could return soon to give USC a full complement of running backs.

Cody Kessler also holds a key to a Trojans victory. Kessler may in fact hold the largest key to a Trojans victory.  His numbers have been astounding this season. His leadership has been consistent for USC and this must continue for a win versus Arizona State, which is fully expected based on his play this season.

Evaluation: USC needs to continue to avoid a slow start and inconsistent quarters of football. Eliminating the high rate of penalties (such as in their matchup with Oregon St.) will also benefit the Trojans’ field position on both sides of the ball. The defense will need to remain on their A-game. The Sun Devils, like many other Pac-12 teams, have a high-powered offense. If the Trojans can rattle ASU’s backup quarterback, it will be a good night for the Trojans.