Who's Playing

USC @ Colorado State

Current Records: USC 9-3; Colorado State 8-4

What to Know

The USC Trojans will take on the Colorado State Rams in a holiday battle at 11 p.m. ET Wednesday at Footprint Center. The two teams each escaped (but just barely!) with wins against their previous opponents.

It was a close one, but on Sunday USC sidestepped the Auburn Tigers for a 74-71 victory. The Trojans can attribute much of their success to guard Boogie Ellis, who had 28 points.

Speaking of close games: Colorado State narrowly escaped with a win as the squad sidled past the Saint Mary's Gaels 62-60. It was another big night for Colorado State's guard Isaiah Stevens, who had 23 points and five assists.

Barring any buzzer beaters, USC is expected to win a tight contest. But bettors beware: they are only 2-6 against the spread when favored.

USC is now 9-3 while the Rams sit at 8-4. A couple numbers to keep in mind before tip-off: The Trojans have been holding their opponents to a field goal percentage of 38%, which places them 20th in college basketball. But Colorado State enters the contest with a 51.40% field goal percentage, good for third best in college basketball. We'll see which of these strengths -- offense or defense -- will win out.

How To Watch

  • When: Wednesday at 11 p.m. ET
  • Where: Footprint Center -- Phoenix, Arizona
  • TV: Pac-12 Networks
  • Online streaming: fuboTV (Try for free. Regional restrictions may apply.)
  • Follow: CBS Sports App

Odds

The Trojans are a slight 2.5-point favorite against the Rams, according to the latest college basketball odds.

The oddsmakers were right in line with the betting community on this one, as the game opened as a 2.5-point spread, and stayed right there.

Over/Under: -111

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Series History

This is the first time these teams have played each other within the last seven years.