I am optimistic about USC this season.

The previously abysmal defense should take a huge step forward behind new defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, who worked wonders at UCLA.

Lynn has transfer talent to work with at all three levels, including stud nose tackle Bear Alexander (Georgia transfer), linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold (Oregon State) and safety Kamari Ramsey (UCLA).

I don’t think the offense will regress too much with Caleb Williams taking charge.

USC vs. LSU Choice

New QB1 Miller Moss threw for 400 yards and six touchdowns in the Holiday Bowl against Louisville last season, and the Trojans have the Big Ten’s most explosive downfield target (and punt returner) in Zachariah Branch.

While the line still needs to get sorted out, the Trojans’ offense should have no trouble against LSU’s nonexistent defense.

Last year, the Tigers finished 124th in EPA per play allowed, blowing assignments left and right.

While they have a new defensive coordinator (Blake Baker) and a great front-seven defender (Harold Perkins), I’m not sure their potential is as great as USC’s.

I have serious doubts about the talent, especially in the defensive back.

LSU had the nation’s best offense last season, but the Tigers lost their Heisman-winning quarterback (Jayden Daniels) and two first-round draft picks at wide receiver (Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas).

While the offensive line could be among the best in the country, it’s reasonable to expect the Tigers to lack explosiveness under new QB1 Garrett Nussmeier, who is much less mobile than Daniels, and an inexperienced group of players at several positions.

Betting on American football?

Sunday could at least come down to a shootout, and I think Moss and the Trojans can keep up the pace for the full 60 minutes.

The Trojans also have a significant advantage on special teams, which can make the difference in a close game.

The play: USC +4.5 (FanDuel)