USC vs UCLA

The winner of the USC versus UCLA crosstown rivalry game receives the Victory Bell. The teams have competed for this 295-pound bell since 1941, and the winning team traditionally paints it in their university colors (cardinal and gold for USC, or blue and gold for UCLA). It is one of the most intensely contested matchups in American college sports.

For decades, both universities shared the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum as their home stadium, meaning the game was always played there. Recently, UCLA moved their home games to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. Therefore, the rivalry game now alternates between the Rose Bowl (when UCLA is the home team) and the LA Memorial Coliseum (when USC hosts).

Historically, both USC and UCLA have been cornerstone members of the Pac-12 Conference (formerly the Pac-10) for nearly a century. However, in a massive shift in the college sports landscape, both universities are scheduled to leave the Pac-12 and join the Big Ten Conference starting in 2024. This ensures their longstanding competition will continue in a new setting.

The USC Trojans historically hold a significant lead in the overall series wins against the UCLA Bruins. USC's dominance, particularly in the mid-to-late 20th century, has kept them ahead in the head-to-head record. However, the intense proximity of the schools ensures that the "Battle for Los Angeles" is always highly competitive.