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Chattanooga packs proven resume, out to spoil opener for USC
Chattanooga packs proven resume, out to spoil opener for USC
Gameday Preview: Chattanooga @ USC
USC opens its 2023 season Saturday night against Football Championship Series (FCS) foe Chattanooga, looking to avenge a surprising loss to South Alabama last season. Here are some things to know before kickoff:
Chattanooga Mocs
The Chattanooga Mocs are coming off an 11-2 season in 2022, where they won the Southern Conference championship and advanced to the FCS quarterfinals. Chattanooga led all FCS teams in scoring last season, averaging 39 points per game. Chattanooga is led by quarterback Preston Hutchinson, who threw for over 3,500 yards and 31 touchdowns last season. First-year coach Rusty Wright inherits a veteran squad with high expectations for 2023 — and has experience beating Power 5 programs, too, knocking off SEC foe Mississippi State in 2021.
USC Trojans
USC starts the season ranked No. 15 in the AP Top 25, and hosts two FCS opponents to start the season before opening Pac-12 play against Stanford in Week 3. The Trojans are led by Heisman candidate quarterback Caleb Williams, who transferred from Oklahoma. Williams will have plenty of weapons to work with, including All-American wide receiver Jordan Addison. But like last season, the defense is the question for the Trojans, who are breaking in a new coordinator and nine new starters on that side of the ball.
Chattanooga vs. USC: What to Watch For
1. New-look defense for USC
The Trojans gave up 36 points per game last season. First-year defensive coordinator Alex Grinch has brought his attacking style from Oklahoma to the Coliseum. How his players respond this season will determine whether USC can threaten to win the Pac-12.
2. Caleb Williams' debut
Quarterback Caleb Williams had a historic season in his first year as a starter at Oklahoma in 2021. Williams threw for 4,075 yards and 42 touchdowns, while also rushing for 442 yards and six touchdowns. The Trojans are hoping he can have a similar impact in Los Angeles.
3. Shane Beamer's return to Columbia
Chattanooga coach Rusty Wright was the defensive coordinator at South Carolina in 2008-09 and 2015-17. He will certainly have the Mocs motivated for a huge road game against his former team.
Chattanooga vs. USC: Prediction
USC should win this game, but it won't be easy. Chattanooga is a well-coached team with a lot of experience. If the Trojans can get their defense to play well, they should be able to get the win. **Final Score:** USC 35, Chattanooga 24