The unranked USC Trojans are set to face the No. 4 Penn State Nittany Lions on October 12. Following a tough loss in Week 6 that dropped them from the top two, the Trojans are gearing up for what is expected to be one of their most challenging matchups this season.
Ahead of the game, Penn State coach James Franklin addressed the media, praising the USC program’s storied tradition and history. “USC speaks for itself. It’s a program with tremendous legacy,” he remarked. “We’re looking forward to this opportunity and the venue, which should provide a great experience for us.”
As the game will take place at USC’s home field, the Nittany Lions must travel across the country. Due to flight restrictions from State College, Penn State has adjusted their travel plans and will depart from Harrisburg the Thursday before the game.
Franklin emphasized USC’s offensive strength under head coach Lincoln Riley, particularly noting quarterback Miller Moss. “I have a lot of respect for their offensive capabilities. They’ve consistently scored points and racked up yardage against a variety of opponents,” Franklin stated. “It’s always challenging when they have a quarterback like Miller Moss, who has performed well during his time at USC, especially since the bowl game last year.”
Franklin also acknowledged standout offensive players such as wide receivers Zachariah Branch and Ja’Kobi Lane, along with running back Woody Marks. “Woody Marks has really impressed me on film,” he mentioned, adding that he had just reviewed Marks’ performance in the Minnesota game.
While Franklin doesn’t know USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn personally, he respects his work, especially as a fellow Penn State alumnus. “He had a top fifteen defense at UCLA last year and is already making a significant impact at USC,” Franklin noted.
Though he didn’t delve deeply into specifics about USC’s defense, Franklin identified key players for Penn State to watch, including defensive end Anthony Lucas, linebackers Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Eric Gentry, and safety Kamari Ramsey.
Franklin believes that special teams will play a critical role in the game against USC, highlighting Trojans punter Eddie Czaplicki and emphasizing Branch’s importance as a returner. “He’s been very explosive as both a punt and kick returner, so he definitely has our attention,” Franklin said.
Penn State is riding a streak of 25 consecutive victories over unranked opponents. However, Franklin made it clear that the team is not underestimating USC despite their unranked status. The USC vs. Penn State game is scheduled to kick off at 12:30 p.m. PT at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.