No. 14 USC Opens 2026 Season in Style Behind Jayden Maiava, New Playmakers.

LOS ANGELES — No. 14 USC opened its 2026 season with a statement Saturday night, leaning on quarterback Jayden Maiava and an impressive group of new playmakers to defeat San Jose State 42-26 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Maiava accounted for three touchdowns in the victory, throwing for 286 yards and two touchdowns while adding another score on the ground. He completed 25 of 29 passes as the Trojans controlled the game for most of the night. USC entered the season with College Football Playoff expectations, and Saturday's performance provided an early look at why the Trojans believe they can compete at that level. "Really dominated the game there through three quarters," USC head coach Lincoln Riley said. "A lot of exciting ball. (Had) a lot of guys (in) their first games as Trojans make a lot of big plays out there." One of the biggest positives was the immediate impact of Trent Mosley. Making his USC debut, the Orange County product caught seven passes for 118 yards and a touchdown. He was targeted nine times by Maiava and consistently created opportunities in the Trojans' passing game. Mosley's longest reception went for 33 yards, and he finished with 52 yards after the catch. "He kind of just did what he does in practice," Riley said. "I don't think anybody here is very surprised. That's kind of what it looks like most days." Mosley also made an impact on special teams, returning a punt 41 yards and showcasing the speed and elusiveness that made him an intriguing addition to Riley's offense.

"That kid moves differently," USC running back King Miller said. "I mean, he's special. I love to see him play." Kayden Dixon-Wyatt also scored a touchdown in his USC debut, while Riley Wormley and Shahn Alston each recorded their first rushing touchdowns for the Trojans.

Six of USC's 10 players who caught a pass were making their USC debuts. Maiava set the tone early, scoring on the ground during USC's opening drive before continuing to find success through the air. Miller added a rushing touchdown just before halftime, helping USC take a 28-0 lead into the break. The Trojans continued to control the game through the third quarter, extending their advantage to 35-3. USC's defense also delivered a strong performance for much of the night under new defensive coordinator Gary Patterson. However, the unit struggled late after Riley turned to his backups. San Jose State quarterback Luke Weaver, a Hawaii transfer, helped the Spartans mount a fourth-quarter comeback attempt. Weaver threw touchdown passes to Jerry McClure and Jordan Anderson before rushing for another score. Weaver finished with 234 passing yards as San Jose State scored three touchdowns in the final quarter. "Fourth quarter, not up to our standards," Riley said. "A bunch of guys got opportunities, and we had several that did not play the way that we anticipated. There will be a lot to learn and grow from." The Trojans were also without several players expected to play important roles this season. Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart and projected starting receivers Tanook Hines and NC State transfer Terrell Anderson were among USC's notable absences. Despite the missing players, several newcomers stepped up. Defensive end Luke Wafle was particularly noticeable for USC. Wafle, one of the nation's most highly regarded recruits from last year's class, showed flashes of the potential that made him such a coveted prospect. Freshman quarterback Jonas Williams also received playing time in the fourth quarter. Williams, who could eventually succeed Maiava as USC's starting quarterback, threw for 55 yards but also recorded an interception.

The biggest takeaway for USC was the production from its new playmakers. With All-American receiver Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane now in the NFL, the Trojans entered the season with questions surrounding their receiving corps. Mosley's debut, along with the performances of Dixon-Wyatt and the other newcomers, provided an encouraging answer.

USC still has areas to address, particularly after allowing San Jose State to score 23 fourth-quarter points. However, the Trojans' performance through the first three quarters demonstrated the potential of a team entering the season with high expectations. USC will return to action Friday, Sept. 4, when the Trojans host Fresno State. San Jose State will travel to Eastern Michigan that same night.