NCAA Football Week 2 Matchup of the Week

No. 3 Southern California @ No. 8 Ohio State: These two perennial powerhouses are back for a huge showdown in Week 2. USC blew out San Jose State 56-3 in their season opener last week. But more important than the outcome was the grand debut performance of freshman quarterback Matt Barkley, who threw for 233 yards and a touchdown without throwing an interception. Coach Pete Carroll as well as all other Trojan followers hope that Barkley can achieve greatness and success, success enough to add him to the long list of great USC QBs this decade, including Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart, John David Booty, and Mark Sanchez. His lack of experience may hurt USC when they play they vicious defense of Ohio State. The Buckeyes are led by a young quarterback of their own, sophomore Terrelle Pryor. In his second year, Pryor is trying to prove his leadership and passing ability to critics, even though he’s already shown his grand running ability. Ohio State barely squeaked by Navy 31-27 in their opener. The bad part for OSU is the fact that USC’s defense is much faster and stronger than the one at Navy. Ohio State struggles in big non-conference games, having lost their last four games against ranked non-conference opponents. One advantage for Ohio State could be vengeance and motivation. Buckeye players and fans still remember the 35-3 beat down given to them by the Trojans last season. It will all come down to which young quarterback can show poise and leadership against a tough defense. I like USC in this one. Coach Carroll obviously knows a good QB when he sees one, and I don’t see Ohio State ending their big game struggles anytime soon. If you have trouble putting away Navy, you’re in for a long game against USC.