Source: FOX Sports
Summary
USC will host Fresno State on September 4, 2026, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. USC won its season opener 42-26 over San Jose State, improving to 1-0. Fresno State is 0-0 on the season and has not beaten USC since 2022. USC is a 21.5-point favorite. Quarterback Maxime Maiava threw for 286 yards and two touchdowns in the opener, while receiver Jordan Mosley had 118 receiving yards and a touchdown. Fresno State is still determining its starting quarterback, with Jayden Mandal and Jalen Martin as candidates.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
USC’s offense is clicking early, with Maiava throwing for 286 yards and two touchdowns.
Mosley added 118 receiving yards and a touchdown, showing his versatility.
Fresno State’s defense, which carried the team last year, faces a tough test against USC’s high-powered attack.
This one felt like a mismatch from the start.
Author: Evan Null
Game Setup and Expectations
The Fresno State Bulldogs are set to face the USC Trojans on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The game is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. PT. USC enters the game with a 1-0 record after a 42-26 win over San Jose State. Fresno State, still 0-0 on the season, has not beaten USC since 2022. The Trojans are a 21.5-point favorite, with the total set at 51.5.
USC’s Strong Start
USC’s quarterback, Maxime Maiava, had a strong performance in the season opener, throwing for 286 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing score, finishing with 18 points. The Trojans’ offense, led by Lincoln Riley, is ranked first in the country in third down conversion rate and total yards per game.
USC’s Versatile Receiver
Receiver Jordan Mosley had a standout game for USC, leading the team with 118 receiving yards and a touchdown. He also added 56 punt return yards, finishing with 174 all-purpose yards. His versatility is key against a Fresno State defense that relies on its defensive strength.
Fresno State’s Quarterback Situation
Fresno State is still sorting out its quarterback room, with Jalen Martin and Jayden Mandal as the top candidates. Martin, one of the two, will need to protect the ball and extend drives. The Bulldogs’ defense, which carried them to nine wins last season, will be crucial in this game.
USC’s Dominance and Fresno State’s Challenge
Fresno State’s only Power Four loss in 2025 came by 24 points to Kansas. Against a USC team that scored at will in its opener, the Bulldogs will need to rely heavily on their defense. The margin for error is thin, and the Trojans are expected to dominate early.
