USC has more than a “punchers chance” against Gonzaga. Compare schedules and wins.
We played a tougher Pac12 schedule vs their WCC schedule.
But against mutual foes:
USC beat up Kansas impressively in the intensity of the postseason (Gonzaga beat Kansas by only 12). USC beat Santa Clara (by slightly bigger margin). USC beat BYU by more than Gonzaga beat BYU.
Gonzaga beat some very decent "name" teams early… But so did USC…especially in the PAC12. Our 2-point loss to the Beavers, while “terrible then”does not look so bad now. Trojans are really peaking in their confidence. USC's cohesive play is so evident here in Tourney "crunch time" as their completely new team is jelling with confidence.
Other facts:
USC currently is 5-1 (only a 2pt loss to OSU) vs teams that made the Sweet 16 /Elite 8 this year. PAC12 is 12-2 in the Tournament...with AT LEAST 3 more games to play.
PAC-12 could possibly have had 4 teams in Elite 8 if Oregon was in different bracket than other 3 P12 teams.
It's a matchup issue for SC imho. Gonzaga has three lights out shooters from outside and they spread the ball extremely well. They are disciplined and unselfish. It's going to take the best game of the year to beat them, but it is March Madness. The type of zone that SC plays and the length on the perimeter gives SC a chance. Aside from Suggs Gonzaga is not particularly athletic. It will take a little bit of luck and some (b)all(s) out defense but it is possible. Gonzaga is laying nine for a reason.