Although the coaching staffs are evenly matched, USC has the edge on defense.

Edge: USC.

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Special teams

USC's David Buehler has converted eight of 12 field-goal attempts and consistently kicked off into or through the end zone. However, he must regain his confidence after missing three field-goal attempts in the regular-season finale against UCLA. Ronald Johnson averages 28.2 yards a kickoff return. Stafon Johnson handles punts. Punter Greg Woidneck averages 36.6 yards a kick. Penn State kicker Kevin Kelly is 19 for 23 on field goals. Jeremy Boone averages 42.5 yards a punt. Williams has returned two kickoffs and a punt for touchdowns.

Edge: Penn State.

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Coaching

Joe Paterno, who recently celebrated his 82nd birthday, has a 383-126-3 record (74.8%) in 43 seasons at Penn State. He is 23-10-1 in bowl games. Paterno had hip replacement surgery in November and has said he will coach from the press box. Pete Carroll is 87-15 (85.3%) in eight seasons. He is 5-2 in bowl games, with four of the victories coming against Big Ten Conference opponents. USC offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian has prepared a game plan in the midst of recruiting and assembling a staff for his new job as Washington's head coach.

Edge: Even.

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Prediction

USC 27, Penn State 17.

-- Gary Klein