Usc-Penn State May Preview Roses

On Sunday, it’s No. 7 Southern California against No. 11 Penn State in the Kickoff Classic at sold-out Giants Stadium. On Saturday, it’s No. 13 Texas A&M at Brigham Young in the Pigskin Classic.

In what could be a preview of the 1997 Rose Bowl, the Trojans and Nittany Lions have similar strengths. Both have experienced quarterbacks, tough defenses and a stable of good running backs.

Wally Richardson completed 193 of 335 passes for 2,198 yards and 18 TDs for Penn State. USC’s Brad Otton, who shared time with Kyle Wachholtz, was 159 of 256 for 1,923 yards and 14 TDs.

Penn State is favored by 2-1/2 points … SOUTHERN CAL 28, Penn State 24.

In the Pigskin Classic, two other highly successful coaches, BYU’s Lavell Edwards (214-80-3) and A&M’s R.C. Slocum (68-15-2) are preparing for their second meeting. The Aggies clobbered BYU 65-14 in the 1990 Holiday Bowl.

For Texas A&M, Branndon Stewart, a transfer from Tennessee, replaces Corey Pullig at quarterback. Eight starters are back on a tough defense.

BYU returns 12 starters, including QB Steve Sarkisian, who threw for 3,437 yards and 20 TDs last year.

The Aggies are favored by 6-1/2 points. … TEXAS A&M 41, Brigham Young 24.