Weekly Q&A — 11/26/15 Answers

Q: Does anyone remember who was favored in the 2012, 2013 and 2014 UCLA and USC football games?

A: According to the Odds Shark database, UCLA was a 3.5-point favorite last year, a 4.5-point underdog in 2013, and a 4-point underdog in 2012.

Q: What’s the injury report on our defense? Also, is Conor McDermott going to play Saturday?

A: Linebacker Isaako Savaiinaea (ankle) and cornerback Johnny Johnson (neck) both dressed and warmed up at Utah, but didn’t play. Mora said Johnson will return, and I’d bet on Savaiinaea playing too. Defensive lineman Matt Dickerson was being examined for an undisclosed injury near the end of UCLA’s win over Utah, and left Wednesday’s practice early. Not sure about his severity, but he wasn’t noticeably limping or anything. Defensive end Takkarist McKinley has been playing through some leg injuries for over a month now, but I expect him to be on the field.

I’d be stunned if Conor McDermott plays. He hasn’t practiced since injuring his knee on Saturday, and I wouldn’t expect him back until the bowl game — if he returns at all. Kolton Miller will almost certainly start at left tackle against USC. Devin Fuller played last weekend, so the wideout will likely be on the field again for the last rivalry game of his career. I’d call freshman receiver Stephen Johnson III doubtful; I didn’t see him anywhere on the field at Utah.