The USC Trojans are feeling optimistic about their chance to upset top-ranked Notre Dame Fighting Irish’s run at a national championship at their game this Saturday in Los Angeles.

A Sports Illustrated blog reports that USC quarterback Max Wittek, who is filling in for the injured starter Matt Barkley, told ESPN radio that the Trojans will be taking down the Irish.

Wittek said, “We haven’t got the full game plan yet, but from what I can tell, we’re going to play our offense, whatever coach (Lane) Kiffin feels comfortable giving me. If he wants to air it out, let’s air it out.”

“If he wants to pound it on the ground, let’s do that. Like I said, I’m going to go out there, I’m going to play within myself, within the system, and we’re going to win this ballgame.”

Some are skeptical about the Trojans, who are 7-4, taking down the top seed Fighting Irish, especially with their starter quarterback Barkley out with a shoulder injury. Saturday could be a make or break performance for replacement Wittek.