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The University of Southern California football program is poised to commence its 2026 season on August 29 against San Jose State University at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, with sky-high expectations surrounding the squad.
As head coach Lincoln Riley embarks on his fifth year at the helm, the Trojans boast a roster brimming with talent, spearheaded by standout quarterback Jayden Maiava, and possess the potential to secure their first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff. This milestone has eluded the team on two occasions during Riley's tenure, and optimism abounds that 2026 will finally be the breakthrough year.
With the Trojans competing in a formidable Big Ten Conference that features powerhouses like Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana, here is an examination of three critical areas where USC must elevate its performance.
Revitalizing the Ground Game
Following injuries to starting running backs Eli Sanders and Waymond Jordan last season, former walk-on King Miller emerged as a revelation in USC's 31-13 triumph over Michigan, spearheading the rushing attack for the remainder of the year. Miller amassed 972 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging an impressive 6.2 yards per carry. Now, he aims to surpass the 1,000-yard mark.
Miller will not shoulder the load alone, as Jordan is expected to return to full health after suffering a season-ending ankle injury in the Michigan contest. Prior to that setback, Jordan had shown promise with 88 carries for 576 yards and five touchdowns. Together, they aspire to form one of the Big Ten's premier running back tandems, a departure from Riley's historical offensive tendencies at Oklahoma and USC, which were not known for robust rushing efficiency.
Fortifying the Rush Defense
Defensive shortcomings have previously hindered USC's playoff aspirations, with the rush defense being a notable concern. This vulnerability was glaring in the team's four losses, particularly a 34-24 defeat at Notre Dame where running back Jeremiyah Love torched them for 228 yards and a touchdown. New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson, formerly of TCU, aims to instill a renewed toughness and physicality in the front seven, a quality that has been lacking in recent seasons.
Key figures to monitor on the defensive line include tackles Jide Abasiri and Alex VanSumeren, along with ends Jahkeem Stewart and Kameryn Crawford, who will be pivotal in shoring up this unit.
Bolstering the Offensive Line
The offensive line returns nearly intact, positioning itself among the nation's best. Left tackle Elijah Paige, guards Tobias Raymond and Alani Noa, and right tackle Justin Tauanuu are back, providing experience and stability. However, center Killian O'Connor suffered a season-ending injury early in fall camp, creating an opportunity for younger players to step up.
Additionally, the Trojans welcome Keenyi Pepe, a 6-foot-7, 330-pound offensive tackle from IMG Academy, rated as the No. 5 overall player and the top offensive tackle in the 2026 recruiting class by 247Sports. Given his elite pedigree, Pepe could quickly ascend to a starting role as the season unfolds.
USC ranked among the top teams nationally in protecting Maiava last year, a trend they hope to continue in a campaign that feels like a make-or-break for playoff contention.