Breaking: SJSU vs USC Opens 2026 Season at Coliseum

Image Source: Los Angeles Times

SJSU vs USC officially opened the 2026 college football season Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where No. 14 USC faced San José State in a highly anticipated noon kickoff. The Trojans entered the matchup carrying national expectations, a new defensive era and significant pressure on coach Lincoln Riley in his fifth season.

USC won the opening kickoff and elected to receive. The game was scoreless with 15 minutes remaining in the first quarter when the Los Angeles Times’ live coverage began, leaving fans waiting for the first major breakthrough of the season.

SJSU vs USC: Trojans Begin a Critical Season

Quarterback Jayden Maiava returned to lead the USC offense as he entered his third season with the program. The Trojans are counting on Maiava to take another step as a passer and become a more vocal leader in the huddle and on the practice field.

Maiava said during the preseason that he had worked to use his voice more often, a shift teammates noticed during camp. Running back Waymond Jordan and offensive lineman Elijah Paige both pointed to the quarterback’s increased communication as an important development ahead of the opener.

For Riley, the season represents a pivotal opportunity. USC went 35-18 during his first four seasons, a record that has intensified scrutiny around the program. The coach has repeatedly said the Trojans are better equipped to win consistently, but the results on the field will ultimately determine whether that optimism becomes reality.

Injuries Change USC’s Opening-Day Plans

USC was without presumptive No. 1 receiver Tanook Hines, who was not dressed because of an injury. His absence created an immediate opportunity for younger players, with freshmen expected to take on larger roles in the passing game.

One player drawing particular attention was Boobie Feaster, the 17-year-old receiver who rapidly moved up the Trojans’ depth chart during preseason practice. Feaster’s early involvement is one of the most intriguing storylines surrounding the USC offense, especially with Hines unavailable.

The Trojans were also expected to play without sophomore defensive lineman Jahkeem Stewart. Stewart had been seen using crutches and wearing a boot on his injured right foot. Riley indicated that Stewart could potentially return as soon as the following game against Fresno State, although reports had raised concerns about a longer absence.

• Tanook Hines missed the opener because of an injury.
• Jahkeem Stewart was expected to sit out with a foot injury.
• Freshman receiver Boobie Feaster was among the players to watch.
• Jayden Maiava started his third season as USC’s quarterback.

Gary Patterson Leads a Defensive Revival

The defensive side of the ball remains the biggest question surrounding USC. Riley hired veteran coach Gary Patterson as defensive coordinator, hoping his experience and aggressive 4-2-5 scheme can transform a unit that has struggled to meet the program’s standards.

Patterson spent two decades as TCU’s head coach and built a reputation as one of college football’s most respected defensive minds. His arrival, combined with an influx of highly rated talent, has raised expectations that USC could finally produce a reliable defense to match its offensive ability.

The San José State game provides an early test of that transition. The Trojans must establish discipline, limit explosive plays and create pressure without allowing the Spartans to remain within striking distance. A strong defensive performance would offer an encouraging first sign under Patterson.

USC’s High-Stakes Road Ahead

Although the opener is being played at home, USC’s broader schedule leaves little room for inconsistency. The Trojans are set to face several powerful Big Ten opponents, including Indiana, Oregon and Ohio State, as well as Washington and Penn State.

That demanding schedule is why the matchup with San José State matters beyond the opening score. USC needs to build confidence, develop its young players and avoid early setbacks before conference play intensifies. The Trojans also hope the newly opened Bloom Football Performance Center and nation-leading recruiting class signal a broader change in the program’s direction.

As the live game unfolded, the central questions were clear: Can Maiava guide an efficient offense without Hines? Will Feaster and other freshmen provide immediate production? And can Patterson’s defense show enough improvement to support Riley under mounting pressure?

The answers will develop throughout the afternoon, but the stakes of the 2026 opener are already unmistakable. USC is not simply beginning another season; it is attempting to prove that the program’s investment, talent and coaching changes can finally produce sustained success.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did SJSU vs USC begin?

The USC-San José State opener kicked off Saturday at noon at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Who is USC’s starting quarterback?

Jayden Maiava led the Trojans at quarterback as he entered his third season with USC.

Why was Tanook Hines absent?

Tanook Hines was not dressed for the opener because of an injury.

Will Jahkeem Stewart return soon?

Coach Lincoln Riley said Stewart could potentially return as soon as USC’s next game against Fresno State, though his recovery timeline remained uncertain.

Why is this season important for Lincoln Riley?

Riley entered his fifth USC season under significant pressure after the Trojans went 35-18 during his first four years.