The big day is upon us, so let's take a look at what each unit will look to accomplish on New Year's Day.

Penn St. Offense - They cannot expect to make big plays, even though that's their strength.  They should think methodical ball-control offense and Daryll Clark needs to use his legs to pick up big 3rd downs.  If they have a turnover free game, it might not take more than 20 points to win, so there is no reason to be unrealistic against a defense that can send you back to reality in a hurry.

USC Defense - USC has always thrived in big non-conference games under Pete Carroll because of turnovers.  The Pac-10 teams are prepared for USC's ball-hawking style, but the Trojans can catch the Nittany Lions unaware.  If they contain Clark's running, he has not shown the ability to carve up a talented pass-defense from the pocket.

USC Offense - With all the time to prepare, Mark Sanchez and Co. should provide a nice preview for next season's senior-laden group.  I like PSU's speed on offense, but can they run with the Trojans on this side of the ball?  With Stafon Johnson and Damian Williams gimpy, USC will rely on Joe McKnight and Patrick Turner.  I'd look for them to take a couple shots deep with Ronald Johnson and at least one trick play.  It's all going to be a lot to handle for a Big Ten team that just does not see this kind of firepower often.

Penn St. Defense - It's kind of a no-name workmanlike bunch this year.  They usually have a linebacker that they hang their hat on, but I have not seen many of their names pop up on draft boards.  But if they stay solid and their offense does not put them in short fields, they can get some work done against a USC group that lacks efficiency.  If they force the Trojans to drive 10+ plays for every score, history will tell you that a penalty, turnover or some other miscue will derail most of those drives.

Breakdown - Despite their classic uniforms and antique coach, this is actually a pretty fresh-faced football team at Penn St.  In fact, it's similar to the Illinois team that USC dismantled in the Rose Bowl last year.  Assuming USC wants to be there and I don't expect that to be a problem, the Trojans will handle the Nittany Lions over 60 minutes.  Turnovers will be the difference and Mark Sanchez will springboard a 2009 Heisman campaign by exploiting the Nittany Lions secondary.  Not a blowout by any stretch, but USC 28, Penn St. 10 sounds comfortable enough.