Full Breakdown
USC Trojans to Open 2026 Season Against San Jose State Spartans
2/26/2026, 7:27:51 AM
Season Opener Details
The USC Trojans will commence their 2026 football season with a matchup against the San Jose State Spartans on August 29, 2026, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. This game marks the first time since World War II that USC will not face Notre Dame in their season opener, as the longstanding rivalry has been put on hold following unsuccessful negotiations to continue the series. The Trojans have a perfect record against San Jose State, winning all six previous encounters, including a 56-28 victory in their last meeting during the 2023 season.
Background on San Jose State
San Jose State, under the leadership of head coach Ken Niumatalolo, is entering its third season after a challenging 3-9 record in 2025. Niumatalolo, who previously coached at Navy for 16 years, led the Spartans to a Hawaii Bowl appearance in his first season but has struggled to maintain that momentum. The upcoming game against USC will be significant for San Jose State, as teams from the Mountain West Conference have historically faced difficulties against the Trojans, with a record of 1-1-39.
USC's 2026 Schedule Overview
USC's schedule for the 2026 season includes a series of home games, with five of the first six contests taking place at the Coliseum. Following the opener against San Jose State, the Trojans will host the Fresno State Bulldogs on September 5 and the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns on September 12. The complete schedule also features key matchups against Big Ten opponents, including Ohio State and Oregon.
Criticism & Opposition
While the decision to schedule San Jose State has been met with optimism from USC fans, some critics argue that the absence of Notre Dame diminishes the excitement of the season opener. The rivalry with Notre Dame has been a staple of USC's football tradition, and its absence raises questions about the future of such high-profile matchups.
Official Statements & Responses
USC officials expressed satisfaction with the addition of San Jose State to the schedule, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a competitive lineup. The Trojans aim to build on their previous season's performance, which ended with a 9-4 record and a loss to TCU in the Alamo Bowl.
What's Next
As the Trojans prepare for their season opener, attention will also turn to the ongoing recruitment and training efforts as they aim to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season. The scheduling of San Jose State is seen as a strategic move to ensure a strong start to the 2026 campaign.
Verbatim Quotes
“It will be the seventh all-time meeting between the two West Coast programs; USC is 6-0 all-time against the Spartans.” — Sports Commentator
