As the USC Trojans gear up for their Week 1 matchup against Fresno State, the excitement is palpable following their impressive season opener. USC, ranked No. 14, began the 2026 college football season with a commanding 42-26 victory over the San Jose State Spartans on August 29, 2026, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. With this win, they became the only ranked team to compete in Week 0, and while discussions about fan attendance dominated the narrative, the Trojans are focused on their upcoming challenge.
Fresno State will visit Los Angeles on Friday night, aiming for a 2-0 start for the fifth consecutive season. This matchup is particularly significant for the Bulldogs, as it marks their first game as a member of the Pac-12 Conference. The stakes are high for both teams, with Fresno State looking to establish itself against a playoff-contending opponent.
Jayden Maiava's Stellar Performance
Quarterback Jayden Maiava showcased his skills in the season opener, completing 25 of 29 passes for 286 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for another score. His performance not only led the Trojans to victory but also earned him the AP National Player of the Week honors, marking the first time he has received this accolade in his collegiate career. Maiava's completion percentage of 86.2% set a new program record for the highest single-game completion percentage by a USC quarterback since 1995, with a minimum of 25 attempts.
“We’re going to have to be really sharp on defense,” said Fresno State defensive coordinator Nick Benedetto, acknowledging the challenge of facing a potent Trojan offense that converted six touchdowns on seven red zone opportunities against San Jose State.
Freshman Talent Shines
USC's freshman wide receiver Trent Mosley made a significant impact in his debut, catching seven passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. His performance also included a 41-yard punt return that showcased his explosive playmaking ability. Mosley’s 118 receiving yards mark the highest for a USC true freshman in their debut since JuJu Smith-Schuster recorded 123 yards against Fresno State in 2014. His all-purpose yardage totaled 174, leading the Trojans and demonstrating his versatility on the field.
Additionally, the Trojans' freshman class, touted as one of the best in the nation, made a strong impression. Alongside Mosley, running backs Riley Wormley and Shaun Alston each scored touchdowns in their collegiate debuts. USC featured five true freshmen in its starting lineup, emphasizing the depth and talent of their recruiting class.
Coaching Connections
This matchup also brings a personal element, as it marks the second meeting between USC head coach Lincoln Riley and Fresno State head coach Matt Entz. Entz, who previously served as USC's assistant head coach for defense, is now in his second season leading Fresno State after guiding the Bulldogs to a 9-4 record and an Arizona Bowl victory in 2025. Riley praised Entz, stating, “He’s a really good football coach and took over a proud program that’s got a lot of great history and tradition in the way that they play.”
As the Trojans prepare for this exciting encounter, all eyes will be on how they build on their strong start and how Fresno State responds in its new conference home. The matchup promises to be a thrilling contest that could set the tone for both teams' seasons.
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