Crosstown rivals Southern California and UCLA meet for the historic 94th time, this time however with a twist. As the two colleges host their showdown on Saturday at Pasadena, California, there is an added layer of complexity in their age-old rivalry. This time, when UCLA and USC lock horns, it will be as counterparts in the Big Ten Conference.
The transition of both powerhouses to the Big Ten Conference is one of the biggest stories of the season, but as they gear up to face each other, it becomes clear that there is more at stake than just their pride. With USC sitting at a 5-5 record and a 3-5 Big Ten Conference standing, Chip Kelly's UCLA side, with a 4-6 record and identical conference standing, will be eager to capitalize on their opponents' vulnerability.
The significance of this match-up cannot be overstated, as two of California's most storied colleges take their battle to the national stage, ready to prove their worth as true competitors in their new conference home. UCLA and USC are more than just neighbors; they are longstanding adversaries with a rich history of producing some of the most thrilling contests the world of college football has ever witnessed.
This face-off, scheduled for this Saturday, marks a new beginning in the prolonged UCLA-USC rivalry. Given the change in conference dynamics and implications for both schools, fans can expect an electrifying display of determination and unrelenting passion as both sides gear up to solidify their positions in their new home. As these heavy-hitting Californian colleges gear up to battle it out for the 94th time, there can be no question that this new chapter in their storied rivalry will be an experience that will long be etched in their memories.