No. 3 Southern California (1-0) at No. 8 Ohio State (1-0), 8 p.m. (ESPN)

Line: USC by 7.
Series Record: USC leads 12-9-1.
Last Meeting: 2008, USC 35-3.
What’s at Stake
For USC, keeping alive the dream of a berth in the national championship game, although there’s a long way to go. Ohio State needs a win to quiet its many critics; the Buckeyes have made a habit of playing top-10 opponents the past three years and losing in a rout.
Key Matchup
USC TB Joe McKnight vs. Ohio State’s defense. McKnight rushed for 105 yards on just 12 carries a year ago at the Coliseum. If he gains traction and starts piling up yards this year at Ohio Stadium, it’ll be a long night for the Buckeyes. Should the Trojans establish a running game, it takes much of the pressure off of new QB Matt Barkley.
Players to Watch
USC: FL Damian Williams, who could also be a valuable outlet valve for Barkley. C Kris O’Dowd is coming back from an injury and is expected to play. FS Taylor Mays might be the best DB in the country, a big hitter who always seems to be around the ball. This will be a huge test for LBs Michael Morgan, Chris Galippo and Malcolm Smith.
Ohio State: QB Terrelle Pryor gets his first taste of being the focal point of the offense. He’s touchy about those who have questioned his ability to pass, so this could be a time to answer the doubters. TBs Dan Herron and Brandon Saine can take away some of the heat Pryor will be facing if they can move the ball on the ground. DL Doug Worthington, Dexter Larimore, Thaddeus Gibson and Cameron Heyward must have an impact.