USC Injury Report: Key Players Out for Big Ten Clash Against Illinois

CHAMPAIGN, Illinois — The University of Southern California (USC) Trojans will face a tough challenge this Saturday as they take on the No. 23 Illinois Fighting Illini. The team’s latest injury report reveals significant absences in their lineup, with wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane and left tackle Elijah Paige highlighted among the missing players.

Lane, a critical part of the Trojans’ offensive strategy, is listed as questionable after missing last week’s game due to a shoulder injury. Paige, regarded as one of the team’s strong offensive linemen, is officially out for the match after sustaining a lower body injury in the second quarter against Michigan State.

“Not having Lane and Paige would be a sizeable hit to the USC offense,” USC head coach Lincoln Riley said during a press conference. “However, we have depth in our roster that can fill these gaps.”

In their previous game against Michigan State, USC adapted by reorganizing their offensive line, moving Justin Tauanuu to left tackle and inserting Micah Banuelos into the lineup. This depth will be crucial as they face a formidable Illinois team.

Other players listed as out for the game include wide receiver Zacharyus Williams, defensive backs Prophet Brown and Alex Graham, among others. Williams, who has not played since Week 2 against Georgia Southern, is sidelined for several weeks due to an upper body injury. Brown and Graham continue their recovery from injuries suffered in fall camp.

Despite these setbacks, junior receiver Makai Lemon has emerged as a key player, leading the Big Ten in multiple receiving categories. “Makai has stepped up in a big way,” Riley noted. “We expect him to lead the charge as we navigate through injuries.”

The Trojans are currently a 6.5-point favorite against Illinois, prompting strong expectations from fans and analysts alike as the team prepares for a crucial matchup. The game kicks off at 9:10 a.m. PDT on Fox.