Ohio State
Buckeyes
Spread
-6.5
NCAAF Predictions
Ohio State Buckeyes vs USC Trojans Predictions
Saturday, October 31, 2026 at 7:30pm EST at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Los Angeles, CA
@
USC
Trojans
Spread
+6.5
50%
50%
Spread
Ohio State Buckeyes -6.5
USC Trojans +6.5
Moneyline
Ohio State Buckeyes -245
USC Trojans +200
Total
Over 50.5 (-120)
Under 50.5 (+100)
Who wins this game?
Professional Picks
0 available
Professional Picks On This Game
No professional picks are available for this matchup.
Ohio State vs. USC Prediction: Buckeyes Favored, but Quarterback Questions Point to a Pass
Analysis updated October 30, 2026 at 8:35 AM CDT
Ohio State allows 5.2 yards per pass attempt, but the Buckeyes must start either Luke Fahey or Tavien St. Clair at quarterback. They’re the likely winner, not a worthwhile bet at the SPF price.
Ohio State’s defense has the clearest matchup edge
The Washington Post / Associated Press reports that Ohio State ranks sixth nationally in total defense at 264.3 yards allowed per game and gives up 5.2 yards per pass attempt. That pass defense can challenge USC quarterback Jayden Maiava, who has thrown an interception in three straight games.
Maiava has completed nearly 70% of his passes at home and thrown 13 touchdown passes there this season. USC’s home production gives the Trojans a chance to stay close, but their latest result raises concern: They scored seven points in a one-sided loss at Wisconsin, their lowest output under Lincoln Riley.
Quarterback uncertainty makes Ohio State’s price too high
Kickoff Status lists Ohio State quarterback Julian Sayin and running back Ja’Kobi Jackson as out. The Washington Post / Associated Press reports that Ryan Day hadn’t named Luke Fahey or Tavien St. Clair as the starting quarterback, though Fahey won the backup job in training camp. That uncertainty matters when the Buckeyes are laying 6.5 points on the road.
Ohio State is the likely winner because its defense has the strongest statistical profile in the matchup. Still, the -245 moneyline offers little return for backing a road favorite replacing its starting quarterback, and the spread requires the Buckeyes to win by at least seven. The betting lean is Pass.
Pick
Ohio State Buckeyes
Confidence
low
Betting lean
Pass