It's been said that Nebraska's game Saturday night at No. 4-ranked Southern California is a "measuring stick" game, but coach Bill Callahan insists it's not a "defining" game. Seems to me, both statements are true.

While the Huskers can certainly measure themselves with their performance against the Trojans, Callahan won't let the results of this one game define Nebraska's season. Maybe it's a NFL-type approach, but I think it fits well here. Whether Nebraska pulls off the upset, plays well and loses or even plays poorly and gets routed, it's still a long season and there's still plenty to play for.

Just like it was against Nebraska for many years, several programs have attempted to validate themselves with wins over USC. Not many have had much luck of late.

During the course of the Trojans' 27-game winning streak in the L.A. Coliseum, nine top-25 opponents have lost to USC by an average score of 40-15. Only three of those teams were ranked lower than No. 19 -- the spot where Nebraska sits in the major polls.

Nebraska is progressing. Quarterback Zac Taylor and a salty defensive line certainly give the Huskers a puncher's chance. But for now, we'll have to go with USC ... Trojans 37, Huskers 17.

However, Husker fans should take solace. The last two times we've predicted a Nebraska loss in this space (Colorado and Michigan), the Huskers have won, despite being double-digit underdogs. Maybe the trend will continue?

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