NBC featured a matchup between two up-and-coming quarterbacks in Week 2 of its ‘Sunday Night Football’ schedule. Now, it will turn back to a more proven duo in a battle of potential playoff contenders.

The Kansas City Chiefs are hitting the road to take on the Atlanta Falcons in a battle between teams trending in opposite directions to start the season.

The Chiefs have earned two close victories over the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals. Each contest came down to its final play, with Isaiah Likely’s toe denying Baltimore a chance to tie Kansas City at the end of regulation in Week 1 and Harrison Butker drilling a 51-yard field goal in Week 2 to give the Chiefs a one-point win over the Bengals.

The Falcons are also coming off a nail-biting win, as they earned a last-minute victory over the Philadelphia Eagles on ‘Monday Night Football’ in Week 2. Kirk Cousins continues to make strides in his return from a torn Achilles, and his ability to connect with Drake London and Darnell Mooney on the final drive should inspire hope among the Atlanta faithful as the team looks to pull off a second consecutive upset.

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

Here’s everything to know about the ‘Sunday Night Football’ matchup for Week 3.

Who plays on Sunday Night Football tonight?

Matchup: Kansas City Chiefs at Atlanta Falcons
Location: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Ga.

The Falcons (1-1) are hosting the Chiefs (2-0) in NBC’s third official ‘Sunday Night Football’ broadcast of the season. Kansas City enters the game favored to win, but Atlanta won’t be a pushover, as it showed during its 22-21 victory over Philadelphia on the road last week.

The Chiefs enter Week 3 dealing with some concerns at running back. Starter Isiah Pacheco was placed on IR after suffering a fractured fibula, while normal backup Clyde Edwards-Helaire is on the NFI list. That will leave Samaje Perine and Carson Steele as the top runners, so quarterback Patrick Mahomes will be relied on to carry the offense.

Mahomes hasn’t been as spectacular at the start of the season as fans are accustomed to seeing. He has tossed just three touchdowns compared to three interceptions across two games, and his 91.9 passer rating and 47.1 QBR ranks 15th and 19th in the NFL, respectively. That will do little to comfort the Falcons though, as the two-time MVP is bound to round into form eventually, especially with Rashee Rice, Travis Kelce, and Xavier Worthy at his disposal.

That said, the biggest advantage the Chiefs hold over the Falcons may come on defense. Chris Jones figures to get solid interior pressure on Cousins which could pose problems for the 36-year-old quarterback. He doesn’t appear to have his full range of mobility as he recovers from a torn Achilles, so he might not be able to scramble away from pressure up the middle as easily as usual.

The Eagles couldn’t take advantage of Cousins’ weakness; the Chiefs are better positioned to do so.

The good news for Falcons fans is that Cousins started to gel with his teammates Drake London and Darnell Mooney, so the passing game should only improve as he settles into Zac Robinson’s offense. Still, the Falcons figure to rely more on Bijan Robinson to catalyze their offense in Week 3, as the Chiefs are allowing 129.5 rushing yards per game to begin the season.

The Chiefs may be rightly favored, but they certainly can’t write off the Falcons as Atlanta looks to keep pace with the New Orleans Saints and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in a surprisingly competitive NFC South race.

What time is the NFL game tonight?

Date: Sunday, Sept. 22
Time: 8:20 p.m. ET

The Falcons vs. Chiefs game is set to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET. That will be the start time for most of NBC’s ‘Sunday Night Football’ broadcasts during the 2024 NFL season.

NBC will also begin showing its pregame show –’Football Night In America’ – at 7 p.m. ET. Maria Taylor will host that program alongside a host of NBC talents, including Jason Garrett, Tony Dungy, Devin McCourty and Matthew Berry.

What channel is Sunday Night Football on tonight?

TV Channel: NBC
Live stream: Peacock | Fubo

‘Sunday Night Football’ will air on NBC in 2024, just as it has since the network bought the rights to the program in 2006.

Cord-cutters will still be able to catch the game using NBC’s streaming service, Peacock, or with Fubo, which comes with a free trial.

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Kyle Larson smoked the field and conquered the concrete, high banks of Bristol Motor Speedway on Saturday night in dominant fashion, leading 462 of 500 laps to win the NASCAR Cup Series’ Bass Pro Shops Night Race in Bristol, Tennessee.

In the final of the three Round of 16 races, the No. 5 Hendrick Motorsports driver started second but ran one spot better for most of the night around the half-mile bullring in the Tennessee mountains.

Larson recorded his fifth win of 2024 by beating teammate Chase Elliott by 7.088 seconds in the most dominant showing in a points race so far.

Denny Hamlin, Bubba Wallace and Christopher Bell completed the top five.

Rounding out the top 10 were Ryan Blaney, Ryan Preece, Chase Briscoe, Alex Bowman and Ross Chastain.

Title hopes came to an end as the round trimmed out the bottom quartet of drivers.

Not advancing to the Round of 12 next Sunday at Kansas Speedway were Ty Gibbs, Martin Truex Jr., Brad Keselowski and Harrison Burton.

Denny Hamlin, who was below the cut line before the season’s 29th race, advanced above the cutoff, essentially swapping places with Gibbs, who was safely in before the 500-lap event.

Truex’s elimination put an end to any hope of him winning in his final season of full-time competition in the series.

Larson showed his strength early in Stage 1’s 125 laps, passing polesitter Bowman and putting championship contender Keselowski a lap down in the late portion of the segment.

The No. 5 Chevrolet stayed out front and Larson claimed his 11th stage win this season. Bowman and Bell followed in second and third, respectively.

Larson, the 2021 Cup champion, was dominant again in the second stage and made it a dozen segment wins by topping Truex and Hamlin.

In the race’s second half at Lap 329, Josh Berry’s No. 4 Ford turned the No. 7 Chevrolet of Corey LaJoie into the backstretch wall to bunch up the field with Larson and Hamlin up front.

Playoff implications arose on the ensuing pit stops as Truex was nailed for speeding on pit road and restarted back in the mid-20s. He never recovered, finishing 24th and failing to advance.

Things have gone from bad to worse for TCU football in its rivalry game against SMU on Saturday.

SMU fans waved goodbye as Dykes exited the stadium, which will likely be the last time Dykes appears at Ford Stadium for seasons to come, with the TCU-SMU rivalry ending for the time being after the 2025 season. Dykes coached at SMU from 2018-21 before taking the TCU job the next season.

TCU, two seasons removed from reaching the College Football Playoff national championship game, is 2-1 on the season, and would need to mount a big effort to avoid losing its second game of the season. Dykes has a 91-73 all-time head coaching record, with a 20-10 record with the Horned Frogs.

The matchup, which awards the winner with an iron skillet, is a battle of regional significance in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as both schools are located in the same metroplex in Texas.

All Lionel Messi needed was an open lane to deliver a pass up the field. Two quick passes later, Inter Miami found the back of the net. And the fans at a packed Yankee Stadium cheered loudly after the greatest player in soccer, not baseball, shine brightly.

Most of them, however, might go home remembering the last-minute goal and thrilling finish.

New York City FC’s James Sands scored a header from a corner kick in the 95th minute, resulting in a 1-1 draw against Messi and Inter Miami on Saturday afternoon. It was the first goal of Sands’ career, as the Rye, New York native picked the most opportune moment in the 117th game of his career to score.

The score spoiled what could have been a 1-0 victory for Inter Miami after Messi’s playmaking brilliance.

It wasn’t much, but Messi received an outlet from defender Federico Redondo about three quarters up the field, and the passing lanes opened for Inter Miami after being jammed with traffic for much of the afternoon.  

Messi passed ahead to Jordi Alba, who found a trailing Leo Campana for a goal scored in the 75th minute. It’s Campana’s franchise-leading 31st goal for Inter Miami. Messi trails behind with 27 career goals for the club.

Still, Inter Miami came away with a point, increasing its lead in the Supporters’ Shield standings at 64 points. Inter Miami needs at least three wins in its final four regular season games to challenge the MLS record for points in a season, 73 points set by New England Revolution in 2021.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino criticized officiating in the match following the game, including what he believed was a missed foul call on midfielder Yannick Bright before the final goal.

“I think we played a good game and we should have won,” Martino said. “If the referee had called the foul on Yannick Bright, we would have won.”

The match was a feisty affair even before it started, when NYCFC fans crowded the Inter Miami team bus with middle fingers and chants upon arrival to the stadium.

Messi and NYCFC defender Thiago Martins, a 29-year-old Brazilian centerback, appeared to get into a conflict of words which led to a flurry of yellow cards in the second half.

Inter Miami defender Jordi Alba pushed Martins for challenging Messi, and defender Tomas Aviles was persistent in engaging into the action as both received yellow cards.

Shortly after, an Inter Miami assistant coach received an instant red card and ejection from the bench after defender Noah Allen was shown a yellow card for a foul. The ensuing free kick from Sergio Rodriguez hit the wall of defenders, but Luis Suarez then picked up a yellow card for colliding into NYCFC’s Hannes Wolf.

Nine yellow cards (excluding the red card to the Inter Miami coach) were drawn during the match, with Inter Miami receiving five of them.

“The team didn’t lack anything, but the match lacked a good referee,” Martino said.

James Sands header goal: NYCFC 1, Inter Miami 1

James Sands’ header from a corner kick in the final minutes of this match have helped NYCFC tie this match late against Inter Miami.

Leo Campana goal comes from Messi’s push offensively: Inter Miami 1, NYCFC 0

Inter Miami has broken through, and Lionel Messi was the catalyst.

Messi found Jordi Alba streaking toward his left, and Alba found Leo Campana trailing down the middle to deliver the first goal of this match.

Inter Miami has a 1-0 lead over NYCFC, as Campana scores his franchise-leading 31st goal in the 75th minute.

Messi, NYCFC’s Thiago Martins get into rift, Inter Miami sees four yellow cards and a red card: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

Messi and NYCFC’s Thiago Martins, a 29-year-old Brazilian centerback, appeared to get into a conflict of words which led to two yellow cards.

Inter Miami defenders Jordi Alba pushed Martins for challenging Messi, and defender Tomas Aviles was persistent in engaging into the action.

Shortly after, an Inter Miami assistant coach received an instant red card and ejection from the bench after defender Noah Allen was shown a yellow card for a foul.

The free kick from Santiago Rodriguez hit the wall of defenders, but Luis Suarez then picked up a yellow card for colliding into NYCFC’s Hannes Wolf.

NYCFC’s Hannes Wolf misses shot: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

New York City FC is getting toward the net in the second half, but Hannes Wolf was unable to connect on his shot in the 61st minute.

Halftime update: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

It’s a scoreless affair in the Bronx, but the crowd at Yankee Stadium has been electric. They’ve shown out for Lionel Messi’s appearance at the venue, but haven’t experienced their Messi moment just yet.

Messi was close to scoring a free kick and a corner kick early, and Inter Miami missed a prime opportunity when Robert Taylor ran into the path of Luis Suarez’ shot during the first half. NYCFC’s Santiago Rodriguez has also missed two opportunities early.

The smaller pitch dimensions at Yankee Stadium appeared difficult for Messi and Inter Miami to navigate, but maybe they’ll get a better hang of it in the second half.

Messi dribbles toward goal area, but unable to get shot off: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

Messi had a window toward the goal, but he was unable to get a shot off after several dribbles in front of a NYCFC defender. It’s unclear if the grass surface where he was dribbling placed over the Yankees’ infield was a factor in Messi not winding up for the shot, or if the defender just got into Messi’s way to deliver a pass.

Inter Miami misses prime opportunity to score: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

Luis Suarez’ open shot was blocked as teammate Robert Taylor ran into the shot’s path during a thrilling sequence. Here’s the miss:

Lionel Messi nearly scores corner kick: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

After a missed strike by Robert Taylor in the 21st minute, Lionel Messi kicked a corner kick that NYCFC goalie Matt Freeze needed to catch in front of the net.

Messi has never scored an Olimpico, a goal from a corner kick, in a professional game. But he was close, considering the shorter field dimensions at Yankee Stadium.

NYCFC’s Santiago Rodriguez misses free kick: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

NYCFC’s Santiago Rodriguez missed a free kick off the right post, which then hit Inter Miami goalie Drake Callender’s head. But this match is still scoreless.

One thing you can say about the crowd at Yankee Stadium: It’s electric.

Messi misses free kick shot in 5’: Inter Miami 0, NYCFC 0

Just a bit outside.

Messi lined up for a free kick after a NYCFC handball, and his shot appeared on target. But it veered right of the net. Still, it was an early, electric moment during the match at Yankee Stadium.

Is Messi playing?

Yes, Messi is expected to play, Inter Miami assistant coach Javi Morales confirmed Friday. He’s in Inter Miami’s starting lineup.

Is Messi starting today? New York City FC vs. Inter Miami lineups

Messi is announced as a starter for Inter Miami’s match against New York City.

New York City FC vs. Inter Miami prediction

Messi scores a goal with an assist, Luis Suarez finds the back of the net and Julian Gressel scores a third goal in a 3-0 shutout for Inter Miami against NYCFC. – Safid Deen, Lionel Messi reporter

Messi returns to the New York area

While today’s game will be at Yankee Stadium, Messi is returning to the New York area after playing two Copa America matches at MetLife Stadium in late June/July.

Messi’s corner kick sparked the goal in a 1-0 win over Chile during the group stage on June 25, and Messi scored his lone Copa America goal against Canada in the semifinal on July 9.

Inter Miami leads MLS standings

Inter Miami remains atop the MLS Supporters’ Shield standings with 63 points. If Inter Miami wins the Supporters’ Shield before the MLS Cup playoffs begin, it will be the club’s second title of the Messi era. And it could be a catalyst for their third, after last year’s Leagues Cup title shortly after Messi’s arrival to the team.

Beckham talks Messi before NYCFC game

It’s been more than a year into the Lionel Messi experience in Major League Soccer, and Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham is still in awe of the club’s acquisition of the Argentine World Cup champion.

“I think speaking from my experience and my family experience, that was what, that’s what Leo was all about. He was, all he was interested in is a place where his family could come enjoy and have a great life. And, and that was, that was really important for Leo,” Beckham said, speaking at Stella Artois’ ‘Let’s Do Dinner’ event in New York on Thursday.

(Updated through games played Saturday, Sept. 21)

While the Baltimore Orioles are set to claim the American League’s top wild-card seed, the Kansas City Royals, Minnesota Twins, Detroit Tigers and Seattle Mariners were all within two games for the second and third seeds through Saturday. In the NL, the Arizona Diamondbacks, New York Mets and Atlanta Braves had just three games between them for the last two spots.

‘We’re having a blast,’ said Tigers All-Star outfielder Riley Greene, part of his first pennant race. ‘This is the most fun I’ve had playing baseball, I think in my life.’

Here’s a look at the latest MLB standings:

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

(Updated through games played Saturday, Sept. 21)

AL wild card standings

Top three reach playoffs

Baltimore Orioles (86-69): +4.5 games
Kansas City Royals (82-73): +0.5 games
Minnesota Twins (81-73)
Detroit Tigers (81-74) 0.5 GB
Seattle Mariners (80-75): 1.5 GB

NL wild card standings

Top three reach playoffs

San Diego Padres (89-66): +3 games
Arizona Diamondbacks (87-68) +1 game
New York Mets (86-69)
Atlanta Braves (84-71): 2 GB

AL East

New York Yankees (91-64) – clinched postseason spot Sept. 18
Baltimore Orioles (86-69) – 5 GB

AL Central

Cleveland Guardians (90-66) – clinched division Sept. 21

AL West

Houston Astros (85-70)
Seattle Mariners (80-75) – 5 GB

NL East

Philadelphia Phillies (92-63) – clinched postseason spot Sept. 20
New York Mets (86-69) – 6 GB
Atlanta Braves (84-71) – 8 GB

NL Central

Milwaukee Brewers (88-67) – clinched division Sept. 18

NL West

Los Angeles Dodgers (92-63) – clinched postseason spot Sept. 19
San Diego Padres (89-66) – 3 GB
Arizona Diamondbacks (87-68) – 5 GB

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

Week 4 of the college football season wrapped up with one of the most highly anticipated games on the 2024 schedule: No. 13 Oklahoma vs. No. 7 Tennessee.

And behind an impressive night from their defense, the Vols spoiled the Sooners’ SEC debut, defeating Oklahoma 25-15 at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma, on Saturday.

With the win, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel won his homecoming to Norman, while the Vols moved to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in SEC play. Heupel led the Sooners to the 2000 national championship, and spent the early part of his coaching career at Oklahoma.

Watch Tennessee vs Oklahoma football live with Fubo (free trial)

The Vols defense held the Sooners offense to a total of 222 yards, and forced Oklahoma’s first safety since 2010. Tennessee finished with 11 tackles for a loss of 45 yards, four broken-up passes, three sacks and an interception on the night. 

Vols quarterback Nico Iamaleava completed 13 of 21 passes on the night for 194 yards and a touchdown. Iamaleava, however, fumbled the ball twice.

One of the bigger storylines coming out of Saturday’s game for Oklahoma will be coach Brent Venables making a switch at quarterback before halftime, as Michael Hawkins Jr. replaced starter Jackson Arnold just before the half and led both of the Sooners’ touchdown drives. Hawkins Jr. completed 11 of 18 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown. 

With that, follow along here for a recap of updates, highlights and scores from Saturday’s top-25 matchup: 

Tennessee vs Oklahoma highlights

Tennessee vs Oklahoma score

Tennessee vs Oklahoma updates

(This section has been updated with new information.)

Final: Tennessee 25, Oklahoma 15

Tennessee picks up SEC road win at Oklahoma

Tennessee defeats Oklahoma won 25-15 in Josh Heupel’s return to Norman. Vols move to 4-0 on the season and 1-0 in SEC play, while the Sooners drop to 3-1 and 0-1 respectively.

Oklahoma scores late touchdown

OU converts on fourth-and-goal as Jovantae Barnes runs it in from the 1-yard line. Jackson Arnold replaced Michael Hawkins Jr. on the play, after Hawkins Jr. fell hard on the ground on an attempted touchdown run. The scoring drive was set up by roughing the passer penalty from Tennessee. Vols get the ball back with 1:09 remaining and up 25-15 after OU doesn’t convert on the 2-point conversion. 

Tennessee settles for field goal 

On a fourth-and-1, Josh Heupel sends out his special teams unit for the field goal. Max Gilbert hits the 32-yard field goal to put the Vols up 25-9 with 3:35 remaining in the fourth quarter. 

Tennessee forces turnover on downs

Oklahoma regains possession after stopping Tennessee, but the Vols force a turnover on downs on the ensuing possession. Tennessee takes over on Oklahoma’s 45-yard line.

Oklahoma scores touchdown

The Sooners have some late life as Michael Hawkins Jr. connects with Jovantae Barnes for a 2-yard touchdown reception. OU’s score snaps Tennessee’s 19-quarter streak without allowing an offensive touchdown. Tennessee now leads 22-9 with 8:25 remaining in the fourth quarter after OU’s Tyler Keltner does not hit the PAT. 

Tennessee’s Dominic Bailey hit with roughing the pass

Oklahoma moves further into Tennessee territory as Vols defensive lineman Dominic Bailey was hit with a 15-yard roughing the passer penalty. The penalty comes after Michael Hawkins Jr. found Zion Ragins for a 10-yard catch on third-and-2.

Oklahoma’s defense forces a punt 

The Sooners’ defense comes up with a stop on third down as Kani Walker tackles DeSean Bishop for a loss of a yard. Oklahoma takes over at its own 32-yard line, where it will look to score its first points since the first quarter. 

Third quarter: Tennessee 22, Oklahoma 3

Michael Hawkins Jr. dropped for 16-yard loss

Two plays after Oklahoma completes its longest pass of the night — 13 yards — Tennessee dials up the pressure and sack Michael Hawkins Jr. for a 16-yard loss to bring up third-and-28. The freshman QB gets 10 yards on the next play but that won’t be nearly enough for the Sooners. It’ll be fourth-and-18 to start the fourth quarter.

Nico Iamaleava, Bru McCoy connect for 42 yards

Tennessee has had a couple long plays called back tonight, but not this one: Nico Iamaleava connects with an outstretched Bru McCoy for a 42-yard gain down to the Oklahoma 28-yard line. That leads to a Max Gilbert 41-yard field goal to give Tennessee a 22-3 lead with 6:03 left in the third quarter.

Michael Hawkins Jr. back in for Sooners

Michael Hawkins Jr. is in for the Sooners out of halftime. Jackson Arnold still has his helmet on but is on the sidelines.

Tennessee starts with the ball

The Vols offense heads out to begin the second half.

First half: Tennessee 19, Oklahoma 3

First half stats

Here’s a look at first half stats between Tennessee and Oklahoma: 

Total yards: Tennessee 204, Oklahoma 82 
Passing yards: Tennessee 126, Oklahoma 54 
Rushing yards: Tennessee 78, Oklahoma 28 
First downs: Tennessee 7, Oklahoma 7 
Third downs: Tennessee 3 of 10, Oklahoma 1 of 7
Turnovers: Tennessee 2, Oklahoma 3

Despite two fumbles, Nico Iamaleava was 8 of 11 for 126 yards with a touchdown in the first half. Jackson Arnold was 7 of 16 passing for 54 yards. 

Tennessee leads Oklahoma at half

The Vols showed why they are a top-10 team in the country in the first half, as Tennessee dictated the pace and speed. Josh Heupel’s squad takes a 19-3 lead into halftime. 

Oklahoma makes change at quarterback 

Looks like Brent Venables has seen enough from Jackson Arnold this half. He brings in freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. in the Sooners’ likely last drive before halftime with Arnold committing three turnovers.

Dylan Sampson scores touchdown for Tennessee

Tennessee goes up 19-3 in the second quarter against Oklahoma as Dylan Sampson lunges backward into the end zone. Sneaky spin move from the running back to set up the score.

Oklahoma gives ball back to Tennessee

For the second time tonight, both teams turn over the ball to each other within seconds. This time, Jackson Arnold threw a lateral pass that was ruled a fumble after the OU receiver couldn’t gather it in. The call was confirmed on the field, giving Tennessee the ball on the Oklahoma 46-yard line.

Tennessee fumbles again 

Oklahoma blitzes and closes up the gap for Nico Iamaleava, leading the Vols quarterback to fumble the ball for the second time tonight. Trace Ford forced the fumble and Gracen Halton landed on it. 

Oklahoma’s Kendel Dolby has to be carted off the field 

Sooners defensive back Kendel Dolby had to be carted off the field after he went down with an apparent lower-leg injury. The entire Oklahoma team came out onto the field as he was carted off with an air cast.

Vols forces a safety

A false start penalty for Oklahoma ends up costing the Sooners, as Tennessee dials up the pressure on first-and-12 and picks up the safety as Jayson Jenkins tackles Jovantae Barnes in the end zone. Oklahoma continues to struggle on offense in this one.

Tennessee punts ball 

Vols can’t convert on the third-and-12 and are forced to punt. Oklahoma takes over at its 12-yard line with 9:17 remaining in the second quarter. 

Jackson Arnold fumbles the ball

Tennessee gets the ball back right away, as Jackson Arnold gets the ball stripped as he goes down on the run. Vols take over at their 7-yard line.

Tennessee turns over the ball with fumble 

Oklahoma dials up the pressure and the Sooners are rewarded for it, as Nico Iamaleava fumbles the ball on Tennessee’s 5-yard line. It is the seventh fumble recovery for the Sooners this season, per ESPN’s broadcast. 

First Quarter: Tennessee 10, Oklahoma 3

Tennessee scores first touchdown

The Vols don’t waste time in the winding seconds of the first quarter, as Nico Iamaleava connects with Dont’e Thornton Jr. in stride for a 66-yard touchdown pass. Tennessee leads 10-3 with three seconds remaining in the first quarter. 

Oklahoma ties it at 3-3 

Oklahoma evens the score at 3-3 as Tyler Keltner hits the field goal. Sooners weren’t able to convert on third-and-1. There are 33 seconds remaining in the first quarter. 

Tennessee takes a 3-0 lead 

Vols kicker Max Gilbert hits a 27-yard field goal to give Tennessee an early 3-0 lead vs. Oklahoma. It caps off a six-play drive for 42 yards for Tennessee. 

Jermod McCoy intercepts Arnold

Oklahoma forces a Tennessee three-and-out, but three plays later the Vols regain possession after Jermod McCoy intercepted a pass by Jackson Arnold. Not a lot of offense so far in this one.

Tennessee forces early punt

Vols getting plenty of pressure on OU’s offense, forcing another three-and-out. Tyre West recorded a sack on second down to put the Sooners at third-and-long.

Tennessee goes three-and-out

Vols can’t get anything going on their drive, going three-and-out and opting to punt. Sooners take over on their own 20-yard line after the punt went into the end zone.

Iamaleava had a nice scramble on second down, but Tennessee couldn’t pick up the third-down conversion on a run play with Sampson.

Tennessee forces fourth-down stop

Oklahoma opts to go for it on fourth-and-short at midfield, but the Vols are able to stop the Sooners on the pass play. Tennessee’s offense takes over with solid field position.

Pregame

Josh Heupel, Nico ready for kickoff 

Josh Heupel meets with his quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, just before kickoff in Norman. Tennessee is looking to pick up its second signature win of the season vs. Oklahoma after beating NC State in Week 2.

Sam Bradford in attendance for Oklahoma-Tennessee

Former Oklahoma quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford is taking in the Sooners’ SEC opener against Tennessee. Bradford won the Heisman Trophy in 2008 as he threw for 4,720 yards and 50 touchdowns that season.

Josh Heupel honored by Oklahoma pregame

Heupel was honored pregame for his return to Norman, as he won the 2000 national championship as the Sooners’ starting quarterback. Tennessee-Oklahoma is 20 minutes away from kickoff.

Jackson Arnold, Oklahoma take the field 

Kickoff is just around the corner. Sooners take the field for their first game in the SEC. 

Kirk Herbstreit’s dog, Ben, is at Tennessee-Oklahoma

Kirk Herbstreit, who is calling the game for ABC, brought his dog Ben to the game. He’s making his pregame walk on the field before sitting in the press box with Herbstreit and Chris Fowler during the game. 

Tennessee, Oklahoma updated injury report 

Tennessee injury report

DB Jourdan Thomas (out)
DB John Slaughter (out)
OL Shamurad Umarov (out)
OT Lance Heard (out)

Oklahoma injury report

WR Jayden Gibson (out)
WR Jalil Farooq (out)
DB Gentry Williams (out)
OL Geirean Hatchett (out)
LB Dasan McCullough (out)
OL Branson Hickman (game-time decision)
OL Jake Taylor (game-time decision)

Nico Iamaleava getting loose pregame

Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava is warming up on the field in pregame. It’s his first true road game as a starter.

Josh Heupel, Tennessee arrive to stadium

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel has arrived at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium for Saturday’s game. It is Heupel’s first game back in Norman after the former Oklahoma quarterback was let go as the Sooners’ offensive coordinator in 2014.

Oklahoma uniform vs. Tennessee drops

The Sooners are rocking with their classic crimson and cream home uniform for their SEC opener vs. Tennessee.

Tennessee uniform vs. Oklahoma drops

Tennessee will wear its all-white uniform for Saturday’s SEC road contest at Oklahoma.

Tennessee vs Oklahoma time today

Date: Saturday, Sept. 21
Time: 6:30 p.m. CT
Location: Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (Norman, Oklahoma)

Oklahoma and Tennessee will kick off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 21, from Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma.

What channel is Tennessee vs Oklahoma game on today?

TV channel: ABC
Streaming:ESPN+ | Fubo (free trial)
Radio: KRXO 107.7 FM (Oklahoma) | WIVK-FM 107.7 (Tennessee)

Tennessee vs Oklahoma history

Series record: Oklahoma leads, 3-1
Tennessee’s last win: 1938 (17-0)
Oklahoma’s last win: 2015 (31-24, 2OT)

Tennessee vs Oklahoma predictions

Tennessee 41, Oklahoma 24: ‘While Oklahoma is clearly the best team Tennessee has seen in 2024, I am buying what I have seen from the Vols. They go into a hostile environment led by a freshman quarterback and emerge as not only SEC title contenders but national championship contenders as well.’– College Football Network’s Colin Lynch

Tennessee 34, Oklahoma 20:‘OU’s offense has gone through a stretch of at least four straight drives without scoring a touchdown in every game this season. That can’t happen on Saturday if it wants to keep up with quarterback Nico Iamaleava and the Volunteers, who rank first in the nation in points per game (63.7). Wide receiver Nic Anderson could make his debut for the Sooners, and that would be a huge boost. But OU still doesn’t have much of a run game, and its short-handed offense line will struggle to fend off an elite Tennessee defense line that’s led by James Pearce Jr. The Volunteers will come out on top in this one.’– The Oklahoman’s Justin Martinez

Tennessee vs Oklahoma betting odds

Game lives and odds from BetMGM as of Saturday:

Spread: Tennessee -6.5
Over/under: 57.5
Moneyline: Tennessee (-250) | Oklahoma (+200)

Tennessee vs Oklahoma injury updates

Tennessee: DB Jourdan Thomas (out), DB John Slaughter (out), OL Shamurad Umarov (out), OT Lance Heard (questionable), DB William Wright (probable), OL William Satterwhite (probable) and LB Ben Bolton (probable)

Oklahoma: WR Jayden Gibson (out), WR Jalil Farooq (out), DB Gentry Williams (out), OL Geirean Hatchett (out), LB Dasan McCullough (doubtful), TE Cade McIntyre (questionable), OL Branson Hickman (questionable), OL Jake Taylor (questionable), WR Nic Anderson (probable), WR Andrel Anthony (probable), DB Kendel Dolby (probable) and OL Troy Everett (probable)

Tennessee vs Oklahoma weather update

According to The Weather Channel’s forecast, Saturday is expected to be partly cloudy in Norman, Oklahoma, with a high of 96 degrees. The winds are expected to be 12 mph south with a 2% chance of rain.

Tennessee football 2024 schedule

Here’s a look at Tennessee’s 2024 schedule, including available start times and TV channel information:

All times Eastern

Aug. 31: vs. Chattanooga (W, 69-3)
Sept. 7 (Duke’s Mayo Classic): at NC State (W, 51-10)
Sept. 14: vs. Kent State (W, 71-0)
Sept. 21: at No. 13 Oklahoma * | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo)
Sept. 28: BYE
Oct. 5: at Arkansas *
Oct. 12: vs. Florida *
Oct. 19: vs. No. 4 Alabama *
Oct. 26: BYE
Nov. 2: vs. Kentucky *
Nov. 9: vs. Mississippi State*
Nov. 16: at No. 1 Georgia *
Nov. 23: vs. UTEP | 1 p.m. | SEC Network+ (ESPN+)
Nov. 30: at Vanderbilt *
Record: 3-0

* Denotes SEC game

Buy Tennessee football tickets this season with StubHub

Oklahoma football schedule

Here’s a look at Oklahoma’s 2024 schedule, including available start times and TV channel information:

All times Eastern

Aug. 30: vs. Temple (W, 51-3)
Sept. 7: vs. Houston (W, 16-12)
Sept. 14: vs. Tulane (W, 34-19)
Sept. 21: vs. No. 7 Tennessee | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo)
Sept. 28: at Auburn *
Oct. 5: BYE
Oct. 12: vs. No. 2 Texas * | 3:30 p.m.
Oct. 19: vs. South Carolina *
Oct. 26: at No. 5 Ole Miss *
Nov. 2: vs. Maine | 2:30 p.m. | SEC Network+ (ESPN+)
Nov. 9: at No. 8 Missouri *
Nov. 16: BYE
Nov. 23: vs. No. 4 Alabama *
Nov. 30: at No. 17 LSU *
Record: 3-0

* Denotes SEC game

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What an encore for the Dallas Cowboys. Here come Lamar Jackson and King Henry. 

And desperate at that. 

This twist of fate for one of the NFL’s showcase matchups in Week 3 (records aside, naturally) is probably just what a reeling defense can do without. The Cowboys were shredded last weekend by the New Orleans Saints for six touchdowns and 190 rushing yards. Now they’ve got to contend with the thunder-and-lightning combination that lays the tracks for the NFL’s No. 1-ranked offense with the Baltimore Ravens.  

Jackson is only the NFL’s most dangerous quarterback runner, while Henry, who joined Baltimore as an offseason free agent, still has some stiff-arms left as the most bruising running back of this era. And Baltimore could have an extra edge as it tries to avoid its first 0-3 start since 2015. 

Can the Cowboys deal with this? 

NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.

“I think the mentality is to bounce back, stop this run and show people that you can stop the run,” Cowboys edge linebacker Micah Parsons told reporters. “I think it’s definitely a prove-it game when you get a game like this back-to-back.” 

That tough talk carries no weight, at least not until further notice. The Cowboys looked to revamp the defense that was undressed in the playoff embarrassment against the Green Bay Packers last season, bringing back Mike Zimmer to push the buttons and try to recreate the magic he had in coordinating Dallas’ defense a couple of decades ago. But after an impressive road opening against an injury-thinned Cleveland Browns offense (six sacks, two takeaways), the home crowd saw a defense that looked way too familiar in Week 2 at AT&T Stadium. 

Yep. Bad things tend to happen at JerryWorld for the Cowboys. At least lately. Dallas has been blown out in back-to-back home games, with the 44-19 loss against the Saints evoking the memory of the 48-32 collapse against the Packers in the first round of the NFC playoffs in January. That’s 92 points allowed at AT&T – one point shy of the most ever allowed in consecutive home games in franchise history. 

Last week, the Saints manhandled Dallas in the trenches, which unleashed a flood of criticism and inspired a derisive moniker as “The Red Sea” defense. Defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and nose tackle Mazi Smith took significant heat, but virtually no one was spared. Not Parsons. Not DeMarcus Lawrence. Not Zimmer, whose substitution patterns (promising linebacker DeMarvion Overshown played just 18 snaps) invited much scrutiny. 

Smith left practice on Wednesday with a back injury but is expected to play Sunday, which can be viewed either as good news or not, considering the first-round pick from 2023 didn’t log a tackle or sack in the first two games. Phillips went on injured reserve with a wrist injury, which is why the Cowboys’ signing of Carlos Watkins off Washington’s practice squad was seen as significant. 

The Ravens, meanwhile, used Henry for a bigger role last week (18 rushes, 84 yards) against the Raiders than in Week 1 at Kansas City, when Jackson rushed for 122 yards. That illustrates part of the challenge for Dallas as the Ravens bring a versatile offense that strikes in multiple ways with different weapons. 

“Obviously, presents a challenge, but … this is the NFL,” Eric Kendricks, who led Dallas with eight tackles against the Saints, told reporters this week. 

Kendricks signed as an offseason free agent to reunite with Zimmer, his former coach with the Vikings. 

“Every week’s going to be a challenge,” he added. “We get to play accordingly. We get to do our job and we’re going to play whatever we get.” 

The Cowboys will certainly get the tests to indicate whether their defense can measure up with contenders. The Ravens, who had the NFL’s top-ranked running game in 2023, are the first of three opponents over the next five weeks that fielded a top-five rushing attack last season. And before Dallas faces Detroit (5th) and San Francisco (3rd) in Weeks 6 and 8, they will also have to contend with a Steelers offense that has doubled down on its running game under new coordinator Arthur Smith. 

In other words, unless the Cowboys prove they can stop the run, there will be a tried-and-true blueprint to increase the misery.  

Drake London’s tone-deaf demonstration

“It’s a trend going around football to do that type of celebration,” London maintained to reporters this week. 

Really? That’s surely not an NFL trend. The NFL has banned such end zone antics for years, which includes throat-slash gestures and showboating with sexual connotations. 

That London hadn’t made his way to the end zone in 13 games before Monday night is no excuse. Rare or not, he should act like he’s been there before. And as a pro in his third NFL season, he should know the rules and consequences that can put his team in a tight spot. 

But that wasn’t the only reason London apologized to his team and then publicly. The celebration on national TV was probably so offensive to anyone who has been victimized by a mass shooting – and was especially insensitive considering the recent school shooting at Apalachee High in Winder, Georgia, where two students and two teachers, including an assistant football coach, were murdered.  

Days before the Falcons traveled to Philadelphia, they hosted the Apalachee football team at practice. Before their Week 1 game against the Steelers, many Falcons players wore Apalachee Football T-shirts during pregame warmups. And none of that resonated enough with London to deter him from that celebration. Apparently, he gets it now. 

“There’s a lot of stuff going around in the world with gun violence that I don’t think I should have displayed there,” London said. “So I’m not too happy with it, and probably won’t see that again from me.” 

Lesson learned. Good. Not so good that London thought it was cool in the first place to mimic an act of violence that hardly needs to be normalized in our society. 

Intense NFL education for Joe Alt

The battle of unbeatens in Pittsburgh on Sunday features an inviting matchup that pits Chargers rookie right tackle Joe Alt against Steelers All-Pro edge linebacker T.J. Watt. 

Alt, drafted fifth overall from Notre Dame, has impressed to the point that L.A. coordinator Greg Roman dared to mention Ravens Hall of Famer Jonathan Ogden when considering his package. 

“The potential is limitless,” Roman told reporters. “I was with Jonathan Ogden many years ago, and he has a chance to touch that stratosphere. But that’s a lot of work, a lot of time, a lot of knowledge and a lot of experience away.” 

We’ll see. In the meantime, the tests keep coming. In his debut, Alt matched against Raiders star Maxx Crosby (one sack, three QB hits, one tackle for loss). Now comes a player closing in on a milestone 100th career sack (98 ½). 

Noted Roman: “Crosby Week 1, now you’ve got T.J. Watt. Merry Christmas.”  

Quick slants 

Seven players across the league opted to use Guardian Caps in Week 2, an uptick from the six in Week 1, as the NFL has allowed players to use the foam protective covering over their helmets during regular-season games this season for the first time. The G-Caps, introduced in preseason practices in 2021 with usage gradually increased since, are designed to reduce the impact from collisions.

According to league data, there was an approximate 50-percent reduction in concussions diagnosed in cases from games and practices over the past two preseasons. It’ll be interesting to see whether more players opt for the extra protection, regardless of the lost style points with the aesthetics.

∎ What a start for Klint Kubiak as the new offensive coordinator in The Big Easy. The Saints have averaged an NFL-best 45.5 points per game, bolstered by revivals from Derek Carr (NFL-best 142.4 passer rating) and Alvin Kamara (NFL-best 290 yards from scrimmage). And here’s a staggering stat that really defines the roll: During the first three quarters in its back-to-back routs, New Orleans converted on 82.4% of its third downs. 

Kalel Mullings and the Michigan Wolverines beat the USC Trojans 27-24 after scoring on their final possession, retaking the lead late in the fourth quarter.

Mullings led the Wolverines with career-highs in carries (17) and yards (159). He also tied his career-high with two touchdowns.

USC (2-1) entered the game ranked No. 12 in this week’s US LBM Coaches Poll while Michigan (3-1) was ranked No. 17.

Quarterback Miller Moss and the Trojans were coming off a bye week and started the first half slow on offense before using a strong second half to keep the game close in the final period. The Wolverines were coming off a 28-18 victory over Arkansas State. The pair of wins now serves as a much-needed bounce-back following the 31-12 loss to No. 2 Texas on Sept. 7.

Coach Sherrone Moore decided to make a change earlier this week when he announced Alex Orji as the Wolverines’ starting quarterback.

Orji completed seven of 12 passes for 32 yards. He contributed on the ground with 15 carries for 43 yards.

USC vs. Michigan highlights

Michigan beats USC in Big Ten thriller

Michigan’s defense prevents USC from getting into field goal range to hold on to the lead and the Big Ten Conference victory at home.

Kalel Mullings, Michigan retake lead from USC late

Kalel Mullings puts Michigan back in front after a short-yardage touchdown run that capped off a 10-play, 89-yard drive. Dominic Zvada’s PAT is good.

The Wolverines lead the Trojans 27-24 with 37 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter.

USC football converts turnover into points for lead

The Trojans have taken a lead in the fourth quarter after Miller Moss found Ja’Kobi Lane for a 24-yard touchdown. PAT was good.

USC capitalized on the opportunity presented after linebacker Eric Gentry had forced running back Donovan Edwards to fumble on the first play of a drive on the Michigan 18-yard line. USC leads Michigan 24-20 with 7:06 left in the fourth quarter. Michigan’s offense has stalled out having been forced to a four-and-out on the two possessions prior to the fumble.

Will Johnson walks back to locker room

Michigan defensive back Will Johnson was seen walking up the tunnel toward the locker room. CBS sideline reporter Jenny Dell mentioned on the broadcast that Johnson’s family was also seen in the tunnel a few minutes later. It remains unclear what the injury could be.

USC’s Jay Fair scores shortly after wild double-fumble play

The Trojans have managed to stay in the game after Miller Moss completes a pass to Jay Fair for a wide-open 16-yard touchdown. PAT was good.

The Trojans trail the Wolverines 20-17 with 1:28 left in the third quarter.

USC had its drive briefly interrupted after Moss fumbled the football and had it recovered by Michigan lineman Kenneth Grant, who also fumbled it away. Woody Marks recovered the ball to give the Trojans a new set of downs.

Will Johnson scores for Michigan

Defensive back Will Johnson sets a new Michigan record for most career pick-6s after increasing the Wolverines’ lead when intercepting USC quarterback Miller Moss’ pass and returning it back for a touchdown with 5:31 left in the third quarter. Kicker Dominic Zvada missed the field goal.

Michigan leads USC 20-10.

Johnson is viewed as a highly touted NFL draft prospect, who could hear his name called in the first round in April.

USC, Michigan injury update

Tight end Lake McRee appeared to be visibly upset on the sideline without his helmet on the CBS broadcasts. McRee made a catch before a Michigan defender tackled McRee at his legs.

Michigan quarterback Alex Orji was spotted on the CBS broadcast with an athletic trainer, who was looking at his taped up right hand.

Miller Moss finds Duce Robinson in the end zone

Receiver Duce Robinson caught a nine-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Miller Moss. Michael Lantz made the successful field goal. The Trojans produced a 12-play, 75-yard drive to open the second half. Michigan leads USC 14-10 with 9:10 left in the third quarter.

USC makes changes along the offensive line

Coach Lincoln Riley appeared to make some adjustments on the offensive line to start the second half. Tobias Raymond enters the game at right tackle while Mason Murphy moves to left tackle, according to Orange County Register reporter Luca Evans. Elijah Paige, who was called for a false start in the first quarter, was benched. Alani Noa was also replaced during the game.

Michigan leads USC at halftime

The Wolverines returned to the locker room with a comfortable 14-3 lead over the Trojans.

Michigan had 199 rushing yards in the first half on 27 carries while USC was held to -16 yards on eight attempts.

Alex Orji completed just four of seven pass attempts for 21 yards for Michigan but had an impact on the ground with 47 yards on seven carries in his first career start.

Quarterback Miller Moss and the USC offense have been slow out of the gate. Moss completed 11 of 20 pass attempts for 134 yards. He was also sacked twice.

USC cuts into Michigan’s lead

Quarterback Miller Moss and the USC offense drove down the field looking to answer Michigan’s touchdown drive. The Trojans were unsuccessful on third-and-11 before Moss managed to avoid a sack and connect with receiver Zachariah Branch for a 42-yard gain.

The Wolverines manage to keep the Trojans out of the endzone and USC settles for a successful 29-yard field goal. Michigan leads USC 14-3 with 4:15 left in the second quarter.

Donovan Edwards’ touchdown helps Michigan increase lead

Michigan has continued to find success with the run game against USC during the first half. Running back Donovan Edwards had a 41-yard run result in a touchdown. The field goal attempt was good. Michigan leads USC 14-0 with 7:14 left in the second quarter.

Makai Lemon headed to hospital after injury

Makai Lemon was being driven in an ambulance from the stadium to a nearby hospital after suffering an injury in the first quarter, according to CBS sideline reporter Jenny Dell.

Michigan honors Greg Harden with helmet patch

The Michigan Wolverines honored Greg Harden, who died last week after complications from surgery. The Michigan alumnus served as a life coach and motivational speaker and has worked with other notable alumni such as 7-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Tom Brady and Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard. He also worked with Olympic gold medalist Michael Phelps.

Makai Lemon in the locker room after injury

Lemon was spotted going back to the locker room at the end of the first quarter for further evaluation.

Kalel Mullings’ touchdown gives Michigan an early lead

Coach Sherrone Moore made a huge decision to go with it on fourth-and-1 and it paid off for the Wolverines, who managed to pick up the first down. Michigan’s Kalel Mullings had a 53-yard touchdown run on the next play. The field goal was good. Michigan leads USC 7-0 with 3:10 left in the first quarter.

USC had a short-yardage situation on third-and-1 but running back Woody Marks was unable to pick up the first down after he was stuffed by defensive lineman Mason Graham. USC punts.

USC WR Makai Lemon injured in first quarter

Receiver Makai Lemon is down on the field after the Trojans punted. Looks like a Michigan player hit Lemon with what looked like a blindside hit. Athletic trainers were looking at him on the field. He managed to walk off the field and toward the sideline.

Michigan, USC defense stand out early

USC won the coin toss and decided to defer to Michigan. The Wolverines receive the ball.

The Trojans held the Wolverines scoreless on an opening drive that featured a solid backfield tackle from USC linebacker Mason Cobb on running back Donovan Edwards for a 3-yard loss on second down. Linebacker Easton Mascarenas-Arnold tackles quarterback Alex Orji on third down before Michigan is forced to punt.

Michigan’s defensive line gets the best of USC’s offense, as it was pinned deep near the goal line. USC offensive lineman Elijah Paige was called for a false start penalty that put the Trojans back on their three-yard line on second down.

Michigan and USC remain scoreless with five minutes left in the first quarter. USC punts the ball back to Michigan

USC vs. Michigan pregame

As expected, quarterback Alex Orji will make his first career start for the Wolverines this afternoon.

Orji will be without starting tight end Colston Loveland, who was listed as ‘out’ on the pregame injury report.

When is USC vs. Michigan?

Kickoff is Saturday, Sept. 21 at 3:30 p.m. ET from Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

It’s the first meeting between the two teams since the Rose Bowl Game on Jan. 1, 2007. It’s also the first meeting between the two teams in Ann Arbor since 1958 when Michigan beat USC 20-19.

How to watch USC-Michigan game

The game will be broadcast on CBS, and also on Paramount+ and Fubo.

College football Week 2 schedule, Top 25

All times Eastern

No. 17 Michigan 27, No. 12 USC 24

No. 16 LSU 34, UCLA 17

No. 3 Ohio State 49, Marshall 14

No. 8 Missouri 30, Vanderbilt 27

No. 10 Utah 22, No. 15 Oklahoma State 19

No. 8 Penn State 56, Kent State 0

No. 18 Notre Dame 28, Miami (Ohio) 3

No. 20 Louisville 31, Georgia Tech 19

No. 21 Iowa State 52, Arkansas State 7

No. 19 Clemson 59, North Carolina State 35

Louisiana-Monroe at No. 2 Texas: 8 p.m. on ESPN+, SEC Network+

Georgia Southern at No. 5 Ole Miss: 7:45 p.m. on SEC Network

No. 11 Miami at South Florida: 7 p.m. on ESPN

No. 23 Memphis at Navy: 3:30 p.m. on CBS Sports Network 

Bowling Green at No. 24 Texas A&M: 7:30 p.m. on ESPN+, SEC Network+

No. 14 Kansas State at BYU: 10:30 p.m. on ESPN

College football picks Week 4

USC vs. Michigan odds, lines

The USC Trojans are favorites to defeat the Michigan Wolverines in Saturday’s college football matchup, according to the BetMGM college football odds. Looking to wager? Check out the top college football betting apps in 2024 offering the top NCAA football betting promos and bonuses in 2024. 

Odds as of Saturday afternoon.

Spread: USC (-4.5)
Moneyline: USC (-210); Michigan (+170)
Over/Under: 44

USC vs. Michigan predictions

Detroit Free Press: USC 27, Michigan 16

Tony Garcia writes ‘It’s rare to have so much unknown in Week 4, but that’s what happens when there’s a major quarterback switch. It could go a few ways. Perhaps Orji unlocks the run element, it complements the defense perfectly and Michigan has found a new formula. Or, perhaps there’s a reason Orji wasn’t the starter originally and it shows. Or maybe there are just flashes, but not enough for a full game. In any case, USC just has too much talent and too solid of a scheme.’

Irish Breakdown: USC 27, Michigan 13

Bryan Driskell writes ‘Michigan’s defense will keep it close for awhile, but the Trojans are just too athletic and I just don’t think Michigan’s offense is just not good enough to win a game like this.’

ClutchPoints: USC 28, Michigan 10

Scotty White writes ‘The Trojans have simply looked a lot more impressive than Michigan this season, and when the Wolverines were similar underdogs against Texas, the Longhorns covered easily. Alex Orji isn’t going to be good enough in the passing game and USC will be able to score enough points for a comfortable win.’

USC vs. Michigan all-time record

USC 32, Michigan 18 (Jan. 1, 2007)
USC 28, Michigan 14 (Jan. 1, 2004)
USC 17, Michigan 10 (Jan. 1, 1990)
Michigan 22, USC 14 (Jan. 2, 1989)
USC 17, Michigan 10 (Jan. 1, 1979)
USC 14, Michigan 6 (Jan. 1, 1977)
USC 10, Michigan 3 (Jan. 1, 1970)
Michigan 20, USC 19 (Sept. 27, 1958)
Michigan 16, USC 6 (Sept. 28, 1957)
Michigan 49, USC 0 (Jan. 1, 1948)

Team Depth Charts

USC depth chart

·       QB: Miller Moss

·       RB: Woody Marks

·       WR-X: Kyron Hudson or Duce Robinson

·       WR-Z: Ja’Kobi Lane or Kyle Ford

·       WR-SL: Zachariah Branch

·       TE: Lake McRee

·       LT: Elijah Paige

·       LG: Emmanuel Pregnon

·       C: Jonah Monheim

·       RG: Alani Noa or Amos Talalele

·       RT: Mason Murphy

Defense 

·       DE: Anthony Lucas

·       DT: Gavin Meyer or Bear Alexander

·       DT: Nate Clifton

·       DE: Jamil Muhammad

·       MLB: Easton Mascarenas-Arnold

·       WLB: Mason Cobb or Eric Gentry

·       NB: Greedy Vance Jr.

·       LCB: Jacobe Covington

·       SS: Akili Arnold

·       FS: Kamari Ramsey

·       RCB: Jaylin Smith

Specialists 

·       Punter: Eddie Czaplicki 

·       Placekicker: Michael Lantz

Michigan depth chart

Offense 

·       QB: Alex Orji

·       RB: Donovan Edwards  

·       WR-X: Peyton O’Leary 

·       WR-Z: Tyler Morris 

·       WR-SL: Semaj Morgan  

·       TE: Colston Loveland  

·       LT: Myles Hinton 

·       LG: Josh Priebe 

·       C: Dominick Giudice  

·       RG: Giovanni El-Hadi 

·       RT: Evan Link  

Defense 

·       DE: Cameron Brandt 

·       NT: Kenneth Grant 

·       DT: Mason Graham 

·       LOLB: Josaiah Stewart 

·       MLB: Jaishawn Barham 

·       WLB: Ernest Hausmann 

·       ROLB: Derrick Moore 

·       LCB: Jyaire Hill 

·       SS: Makari Paige 

·       FS: Quinten Johnson 

·       RCB: Will Johnson 

Specialists 

·       Punter: Tommy Doman 

·       Placekicker: Dominic Zvada 

College Football Fix podcast

The Pac-12 is staying alive but will it matter? Are there legitimate concerns about Georgia? And how will a huge Saturday shake out?

Dan Wolken and Paul Myerberg of USA TODAY Sports discuss these topics and more in this week’s version of the College Football Fix.

US LBM Coaches Poll 

Both USC and Michigan are ranked in this week’s US LBM Coaches Poll. The Trojans are ranked No. 12 this week after falling one spot following a bye week for Week 3. Michigan is No. 17 this week after dropping one spot.

College football bowl projections 

There’s still a lot of time left in the season for teams to continue jockeying for position with the hope of landing a spot in the College Football Playoff and at the very least a bowl game. Here are Erick Smith’s USA TODAY Sports bowl projections following the result of Week 3 games.

College football Re-Rank 1-134 

Paul Myerberg provides this week’s USA TODAY Sports NCAA Re-Rank 1-134, where he ranks every team in college football, including USC and Michigan before they meet this afternoon.

College football overreactions from Week 3

Reporter Eddie Timanus is back to offer some big-picture perspective in response to a bit of the buzz from Week 3, much of which was generated by members of one conference in particular.

College football 2024 season predictions 

The experts at USA TODAY Sports offer predictions for the season ahead, including which 12 teams will make the College Football Playoff. Who wins the national championship? 

Scooby Axson: Ohio State 

Jordan Mendoza: Oregon 

Paul Myerberg: Georgia 

Erick Smith: Georgia 

Eddie Timanus: Ohio State 

Dan Wolken: Ohio State 

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