The USC Trojans are set to kick off their 2026 campaign at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum against the San Jose State Spartans. While the Trojans enter as heavy favorites, the matchup serves as a critical litmus test for a program desperate to secure its first-ever College Football Playoff appearance.
Lincoln Riley’s fifth year and the playoff mandate
As the Trojans enter their fifth season under head coach Lincoln Riley, the pressure to deliver has never been higher. Following a 9-4 finish in 2025 that included a 7-2 record in Big Ten play,the program is no longer satisfied with being a mere contender. According to the report, the primary objective for USC is to reach the College Football Playoff for the first time in the school's storied history.
With star quarterback Jayden Maiava emerging as a Heisman Trophy contender, the Trojans' high-powered offense is expected to be the centerpiece of this championship pursuit. The expectations in Los Angeles are massive, as the program looks to transition from a successful regular season to a national title contender.
Ethan Powell and Jabari Bates' path to an upset
The San Jose State Spartans enter the matchup as underdogs, coming off a difficult 3-9 season in 2025. However, the Spartans possess specific tactical advantages that could trouble the Trojans. Senior linebacker Ethan Powell, a veteran entering his fifth season, brings significant experience to the Spartans' defense with 90 career tackles, one interception, and one sack.
Additionally, running back Jabari Bates aims to capitalize on potential gaps in the USC front. Bates , who has rushed for 476 yards and three touchdowns over three seasons, will look to replicate his high-efficiency performances, such as his 131-yard outing against the Idaho Vandals last year. The Spartans' ability to win close games was evident last season, as their three victories all came by single digits at home.
The abseence of Jahkeem Stewart and Gary Patterson's new sceme
A significant variable in this opening contest is the health of the USC defensive unit. The Trojans will be playing without sophomore defensive end Jahkeem Stewart, who was recently sidelined by a foot injury. This absence could create vulnerabilities in the rush defense that San Jose State is eager to exploit.
To mitigate these risks, USC is relying on new defensive coordinator Gary Patterson to implement a scheme capable of neutralizing the Spartans' attack. As the report notes, Patterson's defensive unit will be tasked with containing a Spartans offense that relies on efficient quarterback play to stay competitive.
Can Luke Weaver exploit a depleted Trojans rush defense?
While the Trojans possess significant firepower, several questions remain regarding their ability to handle an opportunistic Spartans offense. It is unclear how effectively Gary Patterson’s new defensive system will integrate with a unit missing a key component like Jahkeem Stewart. furthermore,while Jayden Maiava is expected to lead a high-powered attack, the Spartans' ability to sustain drives against a Big Ten-caliber defense remains unverified.
The ultimate question is whether Spartans quarterback Luke Weaver can leverage his experience to exploit USC. Weaver, who completed 60 percent of his passes last season, has shown the ability to throw for over 200 yards in multiple starts, and his performance will determine if San Jose State can pull off a major upset in Los Angeles.
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