USC football fans, mark your calendars for August 29th, as the Trojans kick off their 2026 season against San Jose State University at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. With the longstanding Notre Dame rivalry on pause due to negotiation hiccups, USC has rounded out its nonconference schedule with this Week 0 matchup.
The Trojans and Fighting Irish have clashed almost annually since 1926, but with the series on hold until at least 2030, Notre Dame has pivoted to face BYU, a formidable Big 12 contender. Meanwhile, USC's choice of San Jose State, a Mountain West Conference team, offers a different kind of challenge. The Spartans may not have the clout of a Power 4 opponent, but they bring their own competitive spirit to the field.
Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen, in her State of Troy address last November, emphasized the importance of including at least one Power 4 opponent in USC’s nonconference lineup. This strategic move aims to ensure the Trojans face tough competition early on. While other Power 4 conferences mandate matchups against each other, the Big 10, to which USC belongs, does not have such a requirement, allowing for more flexibility in scheduling.
This flexibility means USC will also face Fresno State and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, both from non-power conferences. The Spartans, taking advantage of the "Hawai’i exception" by playing in Honolulu, are eligible for a Week 0 game. This makes them an ideal season opener for the Trojans, who will enjoy starting their campaign with a trio of home games.
So, get ready for an exciting season kickoff as USC looks to make a strong statement right out of the gate.