Trojans’ True Freshmen Show Out in Trample-Style Victory Over Spartans

The USC Trojans officially kicked off their highly anticipated 2026 season on a high note with a 42-26 opening-day win over the San José State Spartans. 

USC's 2026 freshman class, which was touted as the No. 1 recruiting class heading into the season, had its first go at collegiate ball at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. 

Out of the many names that etched their names on the field, none shone more than four-star wide receiver Trent Mosley. The 20-year-old native of Rancho Santa Margarita totaled 118 yards on seven catches and recorded one touchdown in the lopsided win. 

The Trojans came bursting out of the game for their home opener, putting up 28 first-half points. Fourth-year quarterback and captain Jayden Maiava rushed in the first Trojans touchdown of the season with eight minutes remaining in the first quarter. 

Subsequently, that started the offensive push led by the running back room of three-star Riley Wormley (five-yard rushing touchdown) and standout King Miller (four-yard rushing touchdown). For the receivers in the first half, touted Kayden Dixon-Wyatt recorded his first collegiate touchdown on a nine-yard reception.

For Maiava, he finished off his season debut by completing 25-of-39 passes (88%), totaling 286 yards and throwing one touchdown. He handed off the quarterback responsibilities to true freshman Jonas Williams, who went 5-for-7 on completions (71%) and totaled 55 yards. 

On the defensive end, the Spartans were unable to record a single first down, as the Trojans ' lockdown defense, with true freshman Luke Wafle highlighting some stops, denied every attempt by the San José offense. 

Junior defensive tackle Jide Abasiri lived in the backfield in the win. He recorded two solo tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. 

Fast forward to the second half, and it was a completely different ball game. 

The Spartans outscored the Trojans 26-14 through the final two quarters of the game due to some less-than-aggressive defense and misread secondary options. But luckily for USC, their 28-0 cushion in the first half ultimately gave them the edge to secure the victory. 

Despite the sloppy second half, USC came away with the expected victory on a hot day in Los Angeles. Still, plenty will be discussed as the Trojans look ahead to their next home game on September 4 against the Fresno State Bulldogs. 

USC ends the three-game home set to begin their season the following Saturday, September 12, against the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin' Cajuns before heading off to play the Rutgers Scarlet Knights to open Big Ten play.