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David Pollack Names 'Best Matchup' Between USC-Nebraska

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Oct 31, 2025 3:16 PM ET

Two of the greatest programs in college football history will compete on Saturday in Lincoln, Nebraska, when the No. 23 USC Trojans face off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

USC has a 5-0-1 all-time record against Nebraska, making the Trojans the only team the Cornhuskers have never beaten among those they've faced more than once. Last year, the Trojans narrowly escaped Nebraska with a 28-20 win. However, that game was played in Los Angeles.

On "See Ball Get Ball with David Pollack," the college football analyst predicts that he does not believe Nebraska will end its losing streak against USC this weekend at home.

Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley stands on the sidelines.Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images

"That's the best matchup probably in this game," Pollack said. "Nebraska's secondary is pretty good. USC's passing attack is the most important part of their offense, so. I think that could be a good matchup. But I've got USC. I like what USC's got going."

Both teams enter the game with two losses, and their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread. USC boasts one of the best offenses in college football, ranking first in total offense, first in passing offense and 24th in rushing offense. Quarterback Jayden Maiava leads the team with 2,180 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and four interceptions.

As Pollack mentioned, Nebraska has an impressive defense, particularly in the secondary. The Cornhuskers rank No. 12 in total defense, No. 2 in passing yards allowed and No. 89 in rushing yards allowed. The secondary is anchored by Ceyair Wright, a USC transfer, who leads the team with five pass deflections. Additionally, DeShon Singleton tops the defense with two interceptions.

Both teams enter Saturday’s matchup with two losses and fading playoff hopes. The game could ultimately come down to whether Nebraska’s physical secondary can disrupt USC’s rhythm long enough to pull off a long-awaited upset.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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