Wolverines Head West: Michigan Looks to Bring One Back for the Mitten
A few weeks ago, one Michigan team made the trip west — and came home empty-handed.
Michigan State fell to USC 45–31 back on September 20, a game that showed how dangerous the Trojans can be when their offense finds rhythm.
Now it’s the Wolverines’ turn.
Same opponent, same setting, but a different opportunity — a chance to bring one back for the Mitten State and build some momentum heading into mid-October.
The No. 15 Wolverines (4-1) head to Los Angeles to face USC (4-1) at the Coliseum on Saturday (7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 local). It’s the kind of matchup that can define a season — a West Coast, Midwest clash between old foes from Rose Bowls of yesteryear.
Moore’s Return Brings Stability
This will be Sherrone Moore’s second straight game back on the sidelines after his early-season suspension, and his presence should help ground this team as it enters the heart of the Big Ten schedule. Michigan looked steadier last week in a 24-10 win over Wisconsin — not flashy, but efficient — and Moore’s leadership brings a sense of calm to a young roster still finding its full identity.
Bryce Underwood Growing Each Week
Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood continues to take small steps forward. He’s not asked to do too much yet, but his poise and decision-making have been impressive. This will be his toughest environment so far — long flight, time-zone change, hostile crowd, and a USC defense that thrives on creating mistakes. If he stays composed, Michigan’s offense should keep pace.
Strength Meets Strength
USC enters with the 17th-ranked rushing offense, while Michigan boasts the No. 7 rushing defense in the country. It’s a trench fight waiting to happen. The Trojans are 2.5-point favorites, with an over/under of 56.5 — oddsmakers expect a tight, balanced contest.
Justice Haynes Sets the Tone
Transfer running back Justice Haynes has been Michigan’s offensive anchor. He’s topped 100 yards in every game so far, totaling 654 yards and eight touchdowns. When Haynes gets rolling, everything else settles — the line fires off better, play-action opens up, and drives start to feel inevitable. Expect another heavy workload in this one.
USC’s Explosive Playmakers
USC lives off big plays. Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane headline a receiving corps that can change a game in one snap. Offensive coordinator Luke Huard keeps defenses guessing with motion and tempo, and Michigan’s secondary will have to stay disciplined to keep them from breaking loose.
Jayden Maiava enters Week 7 as the Big Ten’s leader in passing yards — an impressive feat considering the Trojans were off last week. The question now is whether Maiava can keep that pace going against No. 15 Michigan and the physical defense waiting for him inside the Coliseum.
Keys for Michigan
- Start fast. Avoid the slow starts that have plagued road games.
- Feed Haynes. Establish rhythm early and control time of possession.
- Protect Underwood. Keep him upright and out of long downs.
- Limit big plays. Force USC to grind their way downfield.
- Stay clean. Penalties and turnovers can flip this kind of game fast.
Why It Matters
For USC, it’s about staying alive in the playoff chase. They are coming off a tough 2-point loss to Illinois, and will be ready to show that they belong in the conversation for a Big 10 championship..
For Michigan, it’s about identity — playing physical, controlled football and showing they can win on the West Coast. The Spartans couldn’t handle the Trojans’ tempo last month; the Wolverines have a chance to show everyone that they are for real and the kings of the state when it comes to handling USC.
Prediction
Expect a physical, back-and-forth game with a few tense moments late. Michigan’s defense holds up, Haynes controls the tempo, and Underwood does just enough to spoil a party in the Coliseum.
Final Score: Michigan 31, USC 28
