Can USC Trojans Offense Take Advantage of a Poor Rutgers Run Defense?

USC Offense Hoping to Exploit Rutgers' Run Defense Woes

The USC Trojans will face off against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday in a highly-anticipated matchup. One of the key factors to watch in this game will be the ability of the Trojans' offense to take advantage of Rutgers' porous run defense.

Rutgers has allowed an average of 215.2 rushing yards per game this season, which ranks 126th out of 131 FBS teams. The Scarlet Knights have also allowed 4.9 yards per carry, which is tied for 122nd in the country.

USC's Running Game Led by Travis Dye

The Trojans have a talented running back in Travis Dye, who has rushed for 615 yards and five touchdowns this season. Dye is averaging 5.6 yards per carry and has been a key part of USC's offensive success this year.

In addition to Dye, the Trojans also have running backs Austin Jones and Raleek Brown, who have combined for 384 rushing yards and four touchdowns this season.

Rutgers' Defense Struggling to Stop the Run

Rutgers' run defense has been one of the worst in the country this season. The Scarlet Knights have allowed at least 200 rushing yards in four of their five games this season.

The Scarlet Knights' defense has been particularly vulnerable to big plays on the ground. Rutgers has allowed four runs of 50 yards or more this season, which is tied for the most in the country.

Trojans Offense Should Have Success on the Ground

Given the struggles of Rutgers' run defense, the Trojans should be able to have success on the ground in this game. Dye is a talented running back who has been productive all season, and Jones and Brown are also capable of making big plays.

If the Trojans can establish the run early, it will open up their passing game and make it even more difficult for Rutgers to stop them offensively.