USC’s College Football Playoff hopes just got a boost as five of the AP top seven teams fell, shaking up the rankings and pushing the Trojans up to No. 16 despite a bye week. With Texas and Alabama now sporting two losses apiece, the path to a playoff spot is suddenly clearer, but a crowded bubble means every game down the stretch is critical.
USC’s College Football Playoff hopes just got a boost as five of the AP top seven teams fell, shaking up the rankings and pushing the Trojans up to No. 16 despite a bye week. With Texas and Alabama now sporting two losses apiece, the path to a playoff spot is suddenly clearer, but a crowded bubble means every game down the stretch is critical. Can USC control its destiny and secure a coveted bye or home game in the first playoff round?
Turnover margin emerges as the Trojans’ secret weapon. Recent wins against Washington and Rutgers proved just how pivotal defensive takeaways can be, with Jahkeem Stewart’s scoop-and-score directly deciding one outcome. As the schedule intensifies, USC’s ability to force turnovers and protect the football could be the difference-maker in their playoff chase. Are the Trojans ready to capitalize on chaos in the rankings and keep their momentum alive?