DraftKings · as of July 10, 2026
USC defeated Missouri State 73–13 in a dominant performance. USC covered by 25.5; Game went Over by 26.5. The market closed at USC -34.5 and the Blue Chip model made it USC -39.0 - a gap of 4.5 points toward USC, of which 3.4 points were beyond the model's measured factors. That was an information gap - the market pricing something the model does not carry - rather than a measured edge.
Missouri State allowed 73 points and 597 total yards to USC, including 42 points in the first half. The defense gave up big plays, such as a 64-yard touchdown pass and a 73-yard screen pass, and could not force a punt until late in the game.
Quarterback Jacob Clark threw for 147 yards and a 33-yard touchdown to Tristian Gardner. The Bears scored first with a field goal on the opening drive, showing some early offensive capability against a top-tier opponent.
This game marked Missouri State's first as an FBS program joining Conference USA. Coach Ryan Beard acknowledged the step up in competition, noting that facing a team like USC provides a benchmark for the level of play required in their new conference.
Coach Beard emphasized there is 'a lot to clean up' after the loss. The team will need to address defensive breakdowns and offensive consistency as they prepare for their next game at Marshall on September 6.
At kickoff, conditions at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum were Clear, 75°F with winds of 4 mph. Weather is not expected to be a meaningful factor in this game. Historical weather data for this game is preserved in the panel alongside. Weather data is sourced from WeatherAPI.com.
Clear
75°F

| Measure | Missouri StateAway | USCHome |
|---|---|---|
| This week | 1,421 miles | 0 miles |
| Last week | Bye week | Bye week |
| Season total | 1,421 miles | 0 miles |
| Body clock | 18:30 | 16:30 |
| Rest | Season opener | Season opener |