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  • Preview: USC Trojans Excited And Ready To Face Texas A&M In The 2024 Las Vegas Bowl

Preview: USC Trojans Excited And Ready To Face Texas A&M In The 2024 Las Vegas Bowl

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Football

Las Vegas, Nev. (BCSNN) — The 2024 SRS Distribution Las Vegas Bowl is set to be a thrilling showdown between the USC Trojans and the Texas A&M Aggies at Allegiant Stadium on December 27th. This historic matchup will feature two powerhouse programs from the SEC and Big Ten, promising an electrifying atmosphere in the sports gambling capital of the world.

"We're excited for this opportunity to play in Las Vegas and showcase our team's talent," said Lincoln Riley. "Our players have worked hard all season, and we're ready to give it our all in this bowl game."

Scouting the USC Trojans
The Trojans, led by head coach Lincoln Riley, finished the season with a 6-6 record. Despite a challenging year, they managed to defeat three bowl-eligible teams: LSU, Rutgers, and Nebraska. USC's offense has been a bright spot, averaging 291.7 passing yards per game (10th in the nation) and 148.7 rushing yards per game. Quarterback Jayden Maiava, who took over mid-season, has thrown for 906 yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions on a 64.4% completion rate. Makai Lemon leads the receiving corps with 665 yards and three touchdowns on 46 catches.

Scouting the Texas A&M Aggies
The Aggies, under first-year head coach Mike Elko, finished with an 8-4 record, including victories over five bowl-eligible teams: Florida, Bowling Green, Arkansas, Missouri, and LSU. Texas A&M's offense has been more balanced, averaging 203.5 passing yards (94th in the nation) and 199.5 rushing yards per game (22nd in the nation). Quarterback Marcel Reed has passed for 1,572 yards, 12 touchdowns, and four interceptions on a 61.1% completion rate. Le’Veon Moss leads the rushing attack with 765 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Key Matchup to Watch
The game will likely hinge on USC's passing attack against Texas A&M's defense, which allows 226.9 passing yards per game. The Aggies' defense will need to contain USC's receivers and force turnovers to disrupt the Trojans' rhythm. On the other hand, Texas A&M will look to exploit USC's rushing defense, which gives up 140.8 yards per game.

Prediction
This matchup is expected to be closely contested, with both teams bringing strong offensive capabilities to the field. The final score prediction is Texas A&M Aggies 24, USC Trojans 21.