The Trojans have lost seven straight, failing to cover the past six. The lone cover at the start of this skid came by a half-point in a seven-point loss at Ohio State. Host Washington destroyed USC 91-72 on March 4. This game is in Chicago, but I still like the Huskies to cover. The depleted Trojans are weak inside, and their defense has been collapsing after halftime.

USC’s primary vulnerability is turnovers, but Washington’s passive defense ranks just 326th nationally in forced turnover percentage. The Trojans have proven resilient in tight games, posting a 9-4 record in contests decided by six points or fewer, while Washington is just 1-6. Neither team excels from three-point range, but USC’s perimeter defense is among the nation’s best. Washington has beaten USC twice this season, including a commanding 91-72 victory on March 4, when the Huskies shot 48% compared to USC’s 38%. The Trojans have dropped seven straight games and are 0-6 against the spread in their last six outings. Despite enduring injuries all season, this could be an ideal scenario for USC to finally cover. They will be extremely motivated in this spot.