Michigan football is set for a big game on Saturday evening, with a West Coast trip to face USC for just the fourth time in the regular season and the second time in Los Angeles (not speaking of postseason games in Pasadena). And with the big game forthcoming between the 4-1 Big Ten foes, the analysts of ESPN College GameDay have some thoughts on how the contest will play out.
In Eugene, Oregon, Desmond Howard, Nick Saban, Pat McAfee, Kirk Herbstreit, Rece Davis, and guest picker Sabrina Ionescu chose who would win the game. Here is how they picked.
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Desmond Howard
Desmond Howard
“This is going to be a close game. I do not think that USC is going to win, so Go Blue.”
Pick: Michigan
Nick Saban
Nick Saban
“Yeah, I’m going with Michigan. I talked to Sherrone this week, and he was concerned about traveling to the West Coast. I think that’s elevated by the fact of what happened to Penn State last week, but I think the way Michigan plays defense and the way they can run the ball is going to be the difference in the game.”
Pick: Michigan
Sabrina Ionescu
Sep 17, 2025; Brooklyn, New York, USA; New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu (20) drives to the basket against the Phoenix Mercury during game two of round one for the 2025 WNBA Playoffs at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
“I got to go with the former Pac-12 school, so I’m going with USC.”
Pick: USC
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Pat McAfee
Pat McAfee
“I understand that USC’s offense has been prolific, but I think what Michigan brings to the table, especially with Bryce Underwood having his best game through the sky just last week, I think they’re just really starting to get going. I like this Michigan team a lot today. Sorry, Pac-12 members of the past.”
Pick: Michigan
Kirk Herbstreit
Kirk Herbstreit
I think Justice Haynes gets it going on the ground, makes SC have to collapse down, and I think that’s where I said earlier. I think Bryce Underwood’s creativity and vertical pass game, they’re going to have to outscore SC, but I think Michigan gets it done the road.
Pick: Michigan
Rece Davis
Rece Davis
You and me, Sabrina. Fight on. SC wins today.
Pick: USC
This article originally appeared on Wolverines Wire: ESPN College GameDay crew split on Michigan vs. USC winner
