A win for USC would significantly bolster its credibility in the Big Ten and set a strong tone for its challenging upcoming schedule, including tough opponents like Wisconsin and Notre Dame. The game against Michigan is pivotal, acting as a barometer for the future trajectory of USC football in this new era.

But those wishes are about as valid as USC Trojans ’ the last two seasons of wishing for a defense, or Michigan’s newfound need of an offense. Wishing for it does not simply make it a reality. Santa Claus is still three-plus months away.