USC vs. Notre Dame: 5 Halftime Adjustments the Trojans Must Make

We should be in for a great finish as the 5-1 USC Trojans take on the 4-2 Notre Dame Fighting Irish under the lights in South Bend. In this 83rd meeting of this historic rivalry, the Trojans are looking to revenge last year's heartbreaking loss and get an important road victory. 

Here are five things the Trojans must do if they want to stop a ND comeback.

Matt Barkley in the Pocket

QB Matt Barkley has done a great job of getting the ball out quickly in the first half. The Trojans' short-perimeter passing game worked wonders in the first quarter as Barkley was able to go 6-6 with two TDs. If Barkley can continue to get the ball out of his hands, look for the Trojans' offense to continue to dominate. 

Robert Woods in Motion/Slot 

The Trojans need to continue to shuffle around WR Robert Woods by mixing up his placement in the second half. Woods has incredible speed, and the Trojans should look to give him more chances with room to run so he can make a big play. 

Don't Get Complacent 

Up until the end of the half USC had their way with the Irish. As the game winds down, it's important that the Trojans don't take their foot off the gas as there is no way Brian Kelly will let his team go down without a fight. If USC can withstand an early ND surge, they can lock down the outcome of this game.  

Follow the FBs 

The Trojans' FBs have been beastly in the first half. In the final two quarters, USC needs to continue to pound the run with RB Marc Tyler by having him follow the lead blocks of his FBs, in particular Rhett Ellison. 

Take a Shot

The Trojans have done a good job of balancing their offense throughout this game. In the second half, USC should attempt to deliver the big hit by letting Barkley take a shot deep to Woods.