Colorado vs USC Odds, Prediction: Bet Trojans to Roll

Just a few weeks ago, there was buzz surrounding the Colorado Buffaloes, as they had a real shot at contending for the Pac-12 title. However, going 1-4 in their last five games — including a 20-point loss to Arizona — has sent them tumbling down the standings.

On Saturday, they'll take on a USC Trojans club that's arguably been one of the biggest disappointments in the country this season. USC comes into this matchup on a high note after notching its fourth win in conference play over Utah, but are the Trojans the bounce-back opponent that Colorado needs?

Let's dive into the Colorado vs. USC odds and make a pick for Saturday's college basketball game in the Pac-12.

The Buffs have established a clear offensive identity, as they're going to play through the strength of their roster. Colorado boasts one of the most imposing lineups possible, essentially starting three big men: Cody Williams, Tristan da Silva and Eddie Lampkin Jr.

With that much size on the floor, it's no wonder the Buffs generate nearly 50% of their offense from inside the paint. They've done quite well in that area, as they're converting over 60% of their attempts from that range.

However, we may see KJ Simpson shine in this matchup. The Trojans are one of the rare teams that can match Colorado's size, but they've been susceptible from beyond the arc.

USC ranks 323rd in 3-point shooting percentage, and Simpson has been dynamite from deep, shooting nearly 43% from downtown.

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At other times I've covered the Trojans this season, the source of their struggles on the offensive end have stemmed from injuries and not having enough depth to make up for when their stars were out. However, over the last few games, we've seen them at full strength, as Isaiah Collier and Boogie Ellis have both been in the lineup.

The backcourt duo of Collier and Ellis has supplied the majority of the offense for the Trojans this season, and when they've been on the floor together, they complement each other well. Ellis is known for his range and has shown he can catch fire from beyond the arc.

Meanwhile, Collier uses his size and athleticism to drive and create on his way to the rim.

Fortunately for both of them, the Buffs haven't been elite in either of their hot spots.

Over 41% of the points Colorado has surrendered this season have come from shots in the paint, and the Buffs are 187th in 3-point percentage allowed. If the Trojans' backcourt can create openings, they should have success here.

While this is not a matchup that you would peg for the marquee, it should be highly competitive. Both teams have their edges on the offensive end of the floor, but when it comes to consistency, that favors the Trojans.

This is an excellent spot to back the Trojans as a short home 'dog. They should be able to clog the paint, as they match the Buffs' size on the defensive end.

Also, the Trojans' dynamic backcourt gives them the ability to space the floor and score on the offensive end.

This may be tough, but the Trojans are the right side.

Pick: USC +2