Notre Dame football vs. USC Trojans: 3 bold predictions in Week 8

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SOUTH BEND, IN – SEPTEMBER 18: Kyren Williams #23 of the Notre Dame Fighting Irish celebrates with teammates after a touchdown against the Purdue Boilermakers during the first half at Notre Dame Stadium on September 18, 2021, in South Bend, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images) /

Notre Dame football vs. USC Trojans: 3 bold predictions in Week 8

Notre Dame wins by two touchdowns

The truth is, while this is a rivalry game, it is also a game where the Irish should show that there is a gap between them and their hated rival. The USC Trojans are in the middle of a tough season, as they have looked terrible at times, and have already made a move at head coach, firing Clay Helton after the second game of the season.

According to WynnBet, the Irish are only 6.5-point favorites against USC, but if the Irish can block the way they did late against Virginia Tech, it could be a long day for a Trojans defense that has allowed 40-plus points on three occasions this season. Jack Coan has to be better, and the defense has to stop the talented London, but in the end, a fired-up Irish team should be able to beat the Trojans easily.

Oct 9, 2021; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish place kicker Jonathan Doerer (39) makes the game winning field goal from the hold of Notre Dame Fighting Irish punter Jay Bramblett (19) in during the second half at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports

Notre Dame football at Virginia Tech: 3 Surprises in Week 6

Kicker Jonathan Doerer booted a 48-yard field goal in the final minute of Saturday's contest - giving the Notre Dame football program a much-needed victory.

In the end, I feel that the Irish have a lot more talent than the Trojans do, and have more stability up and down the roster, and within the coaching staff. Brian Kelly and company have had two weeks to prepare for USC, and while the Trojans have had the same time, coaching should win out in this matchup for the Jeweled Shillelagh.

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