USC Trojans' Surprising Win Total Betting Odds Released

The win total betting odds for the Big Ten teams have been released, and the USC Trojans' projections could be lower than expected.

Jul 24, 2025; Las Vegas, NV, USA; USC head coach Lincoln Riley speaks to the media during the Big Ten NCAA college football media days at Mandalay Bay Resort. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images | Lucas Peltier-Imagn Images

With spring practices underway and teams gearing up for the 2026 season, win totals for each Big Ten team have been released, and the USC Trojans' projection does not bode well for the program's College Football Playoff hopes.

The USC Trojans' win total betting odds are 8.5 on FanDuel Sportsbook, tied with the Michigan Wolverines for the fifth-best odds. Ohio State and Penn State are ahead of USC with 9.5, while Oregon and Indiana have the best odds in the conference with their win total set at 10.5.

Sep 2, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts against the Nevada Wolf Pack in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Trojans finished the 2025 season 9-4, going 7-2 against the Big Ten and missing out on a College Football Playoff appearance. With the current betting odds on the Trojans’ win total, USC could miss out on the CFP once again.

USC’s Biggest Obstacle

One of the biggest obstacles for the Trojans is their schedule. USC will face three teams that made last year's playoff and have multiple games on the East Coast. With the team’s strength of schedule, USC will have a battle ahead to make the playoff.

The Trojans will kick off Big Ten conference play against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. While USC will likely be the favorite to win, the matchup will take place in New Jersey. The Trojans will also travel to face Penn State, Wisconsin, and Indiana in 2026.

Jan 19, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Indiana Hoosiers head coach Curt Cignetti speaks to the media after the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Hoosiers are the reigning national champions, and although quarterback Fernando Mendoza has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, Indiana will not be an easy team to face.

Just one week after playing Rutgers, USC will travel back to Southern California to host the Oregon Ducks. Oregon is coming off its second straight playoff run, playing in the Semifinal last year. The Ducks defeated USC in 2025, 42-27, and retained several of their starters, including quarterback Dante Moore. 

In addition to Oregon and Indiana, the Trojans will face the Ohio State Buckeyes, who won the national championship just two years ago and finished the 2025 season 12-2. The Buckeyes also bring back key starters, including quarterback Julian Sayin and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith.

Ohio State Buckeyes head coach Ryan Day talks to media during a Cotton Bowl press conference at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas prior to their College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup on Dec. 30, 2025. | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Trojans have the tools to win over eight games, but with a challenging schedule, it will be an uphill battle for USC.

USC Trojans Retaining Jayden Maiava

One big reason USC can overcome a tough schedule and make it to the playoff is the return of quarterback Jayden Maiava.

Oct 11, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava (14) warms up prior to the game against the Michigan Wolverines at United Airlines Field at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Maiava is entering his third season with the program, and showed out in his first year as the starter. He finished the 2025 season with 3,771 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. He also rushed for 157 yards and six touchdowns.

Maiava was one of the top quarterbacks in the Big Ten, leading the conference in passing yards. Entering his third season under USC coach Lincoln Riley, Maiava could be the key to pushing the Trojans past nine wins and making a playoff run.

Adding the Key Pieces to Improve

Beyond Maiava’s return, the Trojans brought in the key pieces that can help USC take a step forward.

Amid the departure of defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, USC brought in a staff that can improve the Trojans' defense. USC hired defensive coordinator Gary Patterson, who coached the TCU Horned Frogs for over 20 years. 

USC is also bringing in the No. 1-ranked recruiting class, per Rivals. With 35 signees, the Trojans are adding pieces who could potentially earn playing time early, such as edge rusher Luke Wafle, as well as athletes who can develop and play a larger role over time.

Dec 2, 2022; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts in the first half of the Pac-12 Championship against the Utah Utes at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

In addition to the incoming recruits, USC added key transfer portal players, bringing in competition for various positions. Former NC State wide receiver Terrell Anderson is one to watch to compete for a starting position and help USC stay consistent amid the departure of wide receivers Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane.

Though it may not be an easy season for USC, the Trojans have the pieces needed to put together a winning season and earn a spot in the playoff.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

SIGN UP FOR THE USC TROJANS NEWSLETTER HERE!