Week 4 of the 2025 Regular Season sees the Michigan State Spartans traveling to face the USC Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Both teams enter this game with a perfect 3-0 record, making it a pivotal early-season showdown. The game is set for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at 11:00 PM, and will be broadcast on FOX.
Michigan State, representing the Big Ten Conference, has had a strong start with three consecutive home wins. However, this game will be their first road test of the season. The Spartans recently secured a decisive 41-24 victory over Youngstown State, showcasing a balanced offensive attack with 270 passing yards and 174 rushing yards.
USC, ranked #25 in the AP poll, has also shown impressive form, especially at home with a 2-0 record. The Trojans’ most recent win was a commanding 33-17 away victory against Purdue, where they displayed solid defensive work by limiting Purdue to just 52 rushing yards. With a strong home-field advantage, USC will look to extend its unbeaten start to the season.
USC vs Michigan State At a Glance
- Game Location: Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA
- Game Time: Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 11:00 PM
- TV Broadcast: FOX
- Weather Conditions: Outdoor game under night skies
- Current Records: Both Michigan State and USC are 3-0 this season
- Game Odds: USC favored with a moneyline of -811; spread set at -17.5
USC Trojans Set to Defend Home Turf Against Michigan State
Michigan State Spartans Offense
Michigan State’s offense has been inconsistent, but they have shown flashes of brilliance in the passing game. With a focus on developing a stronger aerial attack, the Spartans have been working on increasing their passing yardage.
The ground game remains a point of emphasis for Michigan State as they look to establish a balanced offensive approach. They aim to challenge the Trojans’ defensive line with a mixture of runs and play-action passes.
Michigan State Spartans Defense
Defensively, the Spartans have been solid, particularly in their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. Their pass rush will be crucial against USC’s offensive line, which has shown vulnerability at times.
Michigan State’s secondary will need to be at their best, facing a USC passing attack ranked 6th in the nation. Interceptions and turnovers could be the key for the Spartans to shift momentum in their favor.
Key Players for Michigan State
The Spartans rely heavily on their quarterback to orchestrate the offense and make quick decisions under pressure. His performance will be crucial in navigating USC’s aggressive pass rush.
On the defensive side, Michigan State’s standout linebacker is expected to play a vital role in containing USC’s dynamic playmakers. His ability to read plays and make tackles will be instrumental in stopping the Trojans’ offensive drives.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
- Against the Spread (ATS) – Last 5 Away Games: 3-2 (60%)
- Over/Under (O/U) – Last 7 Games: 4-3 (57.1%)
- ATS – As Underdog: Last 10 Games: 5-5 (50%)
- O/U – As Underdog: Last 10 Games: 6-4 (60%)
Conclusion
Michigan State enters the game with the challenge of facing a USC team that has been dominant at home. The Spartans’ ability to execute their game plan and limit mistakes will be critical for any chance of an upset.
With a solid defensive unit and an offense looking to make a statement, Michigan State aims to disrupt USC’s rhythm and capitalize on any opportunities that arise during the game.
Michigan State Spartans: The Upcoming Showdown Against USC
Overview of Michigan State’s Season
Michigan State Spartans have had a strong start to their 2025 season, securing wins in all three games so far. Their performance at Spartan Stadium has been impressive, with victories over Western Michigan, Boston College, and Youngstown State.
The Spartans have managed to score a total of 106 points in these games, ranking them 30th in points for this season. Their offensive strategy has been effective, with a balanced approach in both passing and rushing yards.
Key Offensive Players
Aidan Chiles, the Spartans’ quarterback, has been instrumental in their success. He has accumulated 656 passing yards and six touchdowns, positioning him as a top performer in the league.
In the rushing department, Makhi Frazier has been a standout player, contributing 206 rushing yards and two touchdowns. His performance adds depth to the Spartans’ offensive play.
Defensive Strengths
Michigan State’s defense has shown significant improvements, especially in their ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. They have recorded six sacks, ranking 9th in the league.
Their secondary has also been effective, with two interceptions and a fumble recovery, making them a formidable force against any offensive lineup.
Recent Game Performances
In their most recent game against Youngstown State, the Spartans secured a 41-24 win. They showcased a balanced attack with 270 passing yards and 174 rushing yards.
Their previous game against Boston College was a nail-biter, ending in a 42-40 victory, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.
Injury Concerns
Injuries could be a concern for the Spartans, with several key players listed as questionable. Notably, Makhi Frazier, a vital component of their rushing game, is uncertain to play.
Their depth will be tested, especially on the defensive line with Jalen Satchell also listed as questionable.
Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: Last 17 Games (2021–2025) → 15-2 (88.2%)
- O/U – As Underdog: Last 4 Games (2024) → 4-0 (100.0%)
- O/U – After Win: Last 3 Games (2024–2025) → 3-0 (100.0%)
- SU – Home Games: Last 26 Games (2021–2025) → 17-9 (65.4%)
- ATS – Away Games: Last 6 Games (2023–2024) → 4-2 (66.7%)
USC vs Michigan State Prediction: USC -17.5
USC enters this Week 4 matchup as a -17.5 point favorite at home against Michigan State, according to the consensus odds. The Trojans’ recent form, particularly at home, has been impressive. With a 7-1 ATS record in their last eight home games, USC has shown an ability to cover large spreads.
Michigan State is undefeated this season, but they have yet to play a road game in 2025. The Spartans’ defense, ranked 55th in points against, may struggle to contain USC’s high-powered offense, which is ranked 2nd in points for this season. This potent offense, combined with a strong home-field advantage, provides USC a considerable edge.
USC’s performance when favored is noteworthy, with a 23-7 SU record in their last 30 games as favorites. Their ability to consistently outplay opponents in such situations suggests they are well-positioned to dominate in this matchup. Additionally, the Trojans’ robust offensive ranking and home-field success further reinforce this outlook.
Given these factors, USC is likely to cover the 17.5-point spread against Michigan State. The Trojans’ balanced offensive attack and solid defense should guide them to a comfortable victory in Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, with a projected final score of USC 45 – Michigan State 20.
- USC vs Michigan State Prediction: USC -17.5
- USC vs Michigan State Score: USC 45 – Michigan State 20
