USC and TCU meet in the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, and both teams have key players opting out for multiple reasons. Some players are opting out because they have their eyes on the NFL draft, and others are opting out because they're entering the transfer portal, and that's one of the reasons I'm making my bet on USC. Jaden Maiava is the starting QB, and he's coming back to USC. He'll be missing his top three receivers, but the main point is the starting quarterback is still there, while TCU quarterback Josh Hoover is entering the transfer portal, which means former Vanderbilt starter Ken Seals is getting the nod. USC to win by 10 or more.

USC will take the field without some playmakers who are bailing, but at least gifted QB Jayden Maiava sticks around. The same cannot be said for TCU, with QB Josh Hoolver intending to transfer. A possible future NFL pick, he has started for the Horned Frogs for 2 1/2 seasons. Backup Ken Seals has throw only a half-dozen passes all season. The Trojans could be buoyed from signing the top-ranked recruiting class and should be eager to close the book on this year on a high note. Their depth could atone for the bowl's absentees.