The USA faces off against South Africa on Wednesday.

Coverage begins on TV at 11am ET, 8am PT on Universal Sports Network, or also on the Universal Sports online platform.

Samu Manoa captains the USA for the first time, and kicking coach Chris O’Brien says it’s no surprise that he got that honor.

"Samu, since he’s stepped into camp, has been a leader and everybody looks up to him,” said O’Brien. “He’s worked really hard to earn that role. He’s brought so much to our team and our culture, our professionalism."

While Manoa, Phil Thiel, and Blaine Scully are regular starters who run on Wednesday, most of the rest of the USA lineup is players who have not started or not seen a lot, or any, action. 

Scrumhalf Niku Kruger grew up in South Africa, so playing against the Springboks has its own specialness.

"Obviously for me it's going to be an opportunity that I've dreamt of for a very long time,” said the former Kutztown University All America. “It's probably going to be pretty emotional at the same time. It's an opportunity to play against some guys that you know have made it big in the sport. It's an opportunity to just go out there and enjoy myself."

Meanwhile, Shalom Suniula will suit up at flyhalf alongside his brother, Andrew.

"That's something that doesn't come around very often so it's a moment I'll definitely relish; not only playing against the Springboks but to lace up next to him. When he's playing 12 that's something that's definitely going to last. It's a memory that'll last forever."

If he gets on as a sub, Joseph Tuefete’e will earn his first USA cap. meanwhile, if Mate Moeakiola gets on, he will become the third-oldest Eagle in a World Cup. This is Moeakiola’s third RWC. Eleven of the starting 15 are in their first Rugby World Cup.

This is all a huge contrast to the South African team, which is virtually unchanged from the team that beat Scotland just three days ago. 

Note: Twelve of the 23 USA players slated to play Wednesday played HS rugby in the USA, and ten played college rugby in the United States.