Blog Article
Targeting Winners Gridiron Trifecta: UNLV Battles San Jose State, Ohio State Faces Indiana Upset Bid, USC-UCLA Clash in Crosstown Showdown
In a college football weekend that promises to reshape conference landscapes and ignite rivalries, three pivotal matchups take center stage in this Targeting Winners gridiron trifecta. The 23rd-ranked UNLV Rebels, orchestrating a Cinderella season under Barry Odom, square off against the aerial assault of San Jose State in a Mountain West thriller that could redefine the conference hierarchy
Meanwhile, the Big Ten trembles as Indiana’s high-octane offense, averaging a staggering 43.9 points per game, dares to challenge Ohio State’s fortress-like defense, allowing a mere 10.3 points per game, in a clash that could alter the College Football Playoff picture.
And in Los Angeles, the crosstown rivalry between USC and UCLA takes on newfound urgency, with bowl eligibility hanging in the balance for the Trojans and pride at stake for the Bruins in their inaugural Big Ten season.
It’s a weekend where underdogs dream big, powerhouses defend their thrones, and every snap could alter the course of the season. Tune into the Targeting Winners Podcast for a breakdown of other featured games this week.
UNLV at San Jose State
In the high-stakes arena of college football, UNLV and San Jose State are set to clash in a game that could reshape the Mountain West landscape. It’s a gridiron chess match where UNLV, the 23rd-ranked knight, seeks to outmaneuver San Jose State’s unpredictable rook.
UNLV’s Barry Odom has orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, transforming the Rebels from perennial underdogs into conference contenders. It’s as if he’s taken a rusty jalopy and turned it into a sleek sports car, purring with potential.
Under the guidance of first-year coach Ken Niumatalolo, San Jose State isn’t content to be a mere speedbump on UNLV’s road to glory. They’ve got an ace in Nick Nash, a wide receiver who’s been snagging passes like a spider catching flies in its web. Nash leads the nation in receptions and receiving yards, a one-man highlight reel in cleats.
The numbers paint a picture of contrasting styles. UNLV’s offense is a Swiss Army knife, equally adept at slicing through defenses on the ground or in the air. San Jose State, meanwhile, has embraced aerial warfare, their passing game a veritable fireworks display of yardage and touchdowns.
But football isn’t just a game of statistics; it’s a tapestry woven from moments of individual brilliance. UNLV’s Jackson Woodard, once an overlooked walk-on, has blossomed into a defensive colossus. His journey from bench warmer to award finalist is like watching a caterpillar transform into a butterfly – if that butterfly could tackle with bone-crushing force.
Both teams know the stakes as the Friday night lights flicker to life. For UNLV, it’s a chance to keep their conference title dreams alive, a golden ticket they can’t afford to let slip away. For San Jose State, it’s an opportunity to play the role of a giant killer, to prove that in college football, David can still topple Goliath.
In the end, this game isn’t just about X’s and O’s. It’s a clash of ambitions, a collision of narratives where only one team can write the next chapter. Will UNLV continue their Cinderella season, or will San Jose State rewrite the ending? In the unpredictable world of college football, the only certainty is uncertainty – precisely why we’ll be glued to our seats.
UNLV 31 San Jose State 27
Indiana at Ohio State
Picture this: A crisp November afternoon in Columbus, where the air crackles with the electricity of a top-5 matchup that could reshape the college football landscape. On one side, we have the perennial powerhouse Ohio State Buckeyes, a program so accustomed to success that anything less than a national title is considered a disappointment. On the other, the Indiana Hoosiers, the Cinderella story of the season, daring to dream of glory in a conference that has long been the Buckeyes’ playground.
The numbers tell a compelling story. Indiana’s offense, led by the transfer quarterback Kurtis Rourke, has been a revelation, averaging 43.9 points per game. The offensive explosion would make even the most ardent defensive coordinators lose sleep. Rourke’s efficiency is almost algorithmic – 2,410 yards, 21 touchdowns, and a completion percentage that would make even NFL quarterbacks envious. His favorite target, Elijah Sarratt, has been a big-play machine, turning 38 receptions into 685 yards and six touchdowns. It’s the kind of connection that reminds you of the best buddy cop movies – unexpected but undeniably effective.
But let’s not forget about Ohio State. While not as prolific, the Buckeyes’ offense is a well-oiled machine, averaging 37.8 points per game. Quarterback Will Howard is the Swiss Army knife of college football – 2,484 passing yards, 24 touchdowns through the air, and six more on the ground. It’s like watching a chess grandmaster who suddenly decides to flip the board and challenge you to a game of checkers.
However, defense is where this game might be won. Ohio State’s unit is a fortress, allowing 10.3 points per game. It’s the kind of defense that doesn’t just stop opponents; it crushes their will to compete. While not as dominant, Indiana’s defense has been the epitome of bend-don’t-break, keeping every opponent under 28 points. It’s like watching a tightrope walker navigate a windy day—precarious but somehow always managing to stay upright.
The coaching matchup is where this game gets exciting. With his 65-9 record at Ohio State, Ryan Day is the established titan, the man who inherited Urban Meyer’s empire and made it even more formidable. Curt Cignetti, in his first year at Indiana, is the upstart, the man who’s turned a perennial Big Ten punching bag into a contender. It would be David vs. Goliath if David suddenly discovered he had a cannon for an arm.
And then there’s the Horseshoe. Ohio Stadium isn’t just a venue; it’s a colosseum where Big Ten dreams go to die. The home-field advantage here isn’t just about noise; it’s about history, expectation, and the weight of 100,000 scarlet-clad fans willing their team to victory.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The winner gets a fast track to the Big Ten Championship and a likely spot in the College Football Playoff. For Indiana, it’s a chance to prove they belong among the elite, to turn their Cinderella story into a dynasty. For Ohio State, it’s about maintaining their iron grip on the conference and keeping their national title hopes alive.
This game has all the makings of an instant classic. Ohio State’s championship DNA and the Horseshoe’s intimidating aura give them the edge, but Indiana’s explosive offense and the chip on their shoulder make them dangerous. Expect a battle that will be discussed for years, likely decided in the final moments.
Ultimately, talent and experience might edge out the fairy tale.
Ohio State 31, Indiana 27.
But in a game like this, the only certainty is that nothing is certain.
USC at UCLA
The crosstown rivalry between USC and UCLA takes on added significance this year as both programs find themselves in unfamiliar territory in their inaugural Big Ten season. With bowl eligibility on the line for USC and pride at stake for UCLA, this matchup could be a turning point for both coaches.
Coaching Hot Seat
Lincoln Riley (USC): In his third year at USC, Riley’s tenure has been a rollercoaster. After an 11-3 debut season in 2022, the Trojans have regressed to 8-5 in 2023 and now sit at 5-5. Riley’s overall record at USC (24-13, 0.649) is far below expectations, especially compared to his dominant run at Oklahoma (55-10, 0.846).
Deshawn Foster (UCLA): In his first year as head coach, Foster has faced significant challenges, guiding the Bruins to a 4-6 record. However, UCLA has shown improvement, winning three of their last four games before losing to Washington.
Key Players to Watch
USC:
- QB Jayden Maiava: Taking over as starter, Maiava impressed in his debut against Nebraska, completing 25 of 35 passes for 259 yards and 3 TDs.
- RB Jo’quavious Marks: 1,024 rushing yards, 9 TDs, averaging 5.9 yards per carry.
- WR Zachariah Branch: 41 receptions, 445 yards, 1 TD.
UCLA:
- QB Ethan Garbers: 2,173 passing yards, 14 TDs, 11 INTs.
- RB TJ Harden: 384 rushing yards, 1 TD, 336 receiving yards, 1 TD.
- LB Carson Schwesinger: 109 tackles, 8 TFL, 3 sacks, 2 INTs.
Statistical Comparison
| Statistic | USC | UCLA |
| Total Offense (yards/game) | 438.1 | 320.6 |
| Passing (yards/game) | 288.0 | 235.2 |
| Rushing (yards/game) | 150.1 | 85.4 |
| Points per game | 30.3 | 18.8 |
| Total Defense (yards allowed/game) | 364.7 | 346.3 |
| Points allowed per game | 22.0 | 27.1 |
Keys to the Game
- USC’s quarterback transition: How will Jayden Maiava perform in his second start, especially in a high-pressure rivalry game?
- UCLA’s defensive strategy: Can the Bruins’ defense, which has been solid overall, contain USC’s potent offense?
- Turnover battle: Both teams have struggled with giveaways this season. The team that protects the ball better will likely emerge victorious.
- Running game: USC’s ground attack, led by Marks, could be the difference-maker against UCLA’s struggling rush defense.
Prediction
Despite UCLA’s recent improvements and home-field advantage, USC’s offensive firepower and need for bowl eligibility should give them the edge. Expect Maiava to build on his strong debut while the Trojans’ running game exploits UCLA’s vulnerabilities.
Final Score: USC 31, UCLA 24
This game could be a defining moment for both programs and their respective coaches. A loss for either could significantly increase the pressure on their job security heading into the offseason.
