USC vs. Arizona score predictions

Photo by Chris Coduto/Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesThe Arizona Wildcats (15-6, 5-3 Pac-12) return home after a successful road sweep of the Washington schools to take on the USC Trojans (17-5, 6-3) in a battle of teams tangled at the top of the standings.

Tip off is set for 7 p.m. MT and the game will be broadcast on ESPN2. Head to our basketball section for complete coverage.

Below are our staff predictions:

Brian J. Pedersen — Arizona wins 71-65

As great as the road sweep was for Arizona, it will mean nothing if it fails to do the same at home this weekend. And for that to happen it’s going to require a tremendous effort on the boards. The Wildcats have gotten much better at rebounding,…