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USC Trojans Record First Shutout of the Season, 39-0 Over Fresno State

9/6/2026, 5:59:50 AM

Game Overview

The No. 14 USC Trojans defeated the Fresno State Bulldogs 39-0 in a non-conference matchup at the Los Angeles Coliseum. USC built a massive halftime lead and maintained defensive dominance throughout, preventing the Bulldogs from gaining more than 116 total yards. The victory marked USC’s first shutout since a 48-0 win over Utah State in September 2024 and improved the Trojans to 2-0 on the season.

Key Figures

  • Lincoln Riley – Head coach of USC, praised the team’s “complete” performance.
  • Jayden Maiava – Starting quarterback who completed 23 of 25 passes for 349 yards and three touchdowns before yielding to backup Jonas Williams.
  • Trent Mosley – Freshman wide receiver who logged four catches for 104 yards and two touchdowns, positioning him as a leading freshman receiver nationally.
  • Jide Abasiri – Defensive tackle who recorded one of USC’s five sacks and contributed to the defensive front’s effectiveness.

Data & Statistics

  • Final score: USC 39, Fresno State 0.
  • USC total offense: 349 passing yards; 88.9 % completion rate (48 of 54 passes through two games).
  • Fresno State total offense: 116 yards, including a final drive of just 56 yards.
  • Turnovers: USC fumbled three times, losing the ball twice; forced two safeties and one interception (Prophet Brown’s first career pick).
  • Attendance: reported crowd of approximately 53,014 spectators.

Official Statements & Responses

He also expressed confidence in the defensive staff, particularly new coordinator Gary Patterson, for positioning players effectively.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “We bit down on our mouthguards, had some grit and were able to finish,” — Trojans defensive end
  • “I thought our front and our back end really played well together and complemented each other,” — Lincoln Riley, USC coach