In today's college football landscape, the transfer portal and NIL deals have reshaped the way teams and players navigate their careers. It's not uncommon for programs to face off against their former players, a scenario the USC Trojans are set to experience throughout the pivotal 2026 season under coach Lincoln Riley.
Let's dive into the matchups featuring former Trojans who will be lining up on the opposite side of the field this year.
Former Trojans: DL Deijon Laffitte, OL Gino Quinones
Kicking off on September 4th at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Trojans will host the Fresno State Bulldogs, where they’ll encounter familiar faces in Deijon Laffitte and Gino Quinones. Both transferred from USC to Fresno State in 2024 and have since become integral parts of a Bulldogs squad that impressed last season with a 9-4 record, including a solid 5-3 in Mountain West play. Laffitte, in particular, has been a force on the defensive line, tallying 28 tackles, three sacks, and even snagging an interception over two seasons.
Week 4 Showdown: Bear Alexander's Return
Later in the season, USC will face the Oregon Ducks in a much-anticipated Week 4 clash. This game will see defensive lineman Bear Alexander back in the Coliseum, albeit on the opposing team.
Alexander, who spent two seasons with the Trojans, made a significant impact in his first year with the Ducks in 2025, racking up 50 tackles and a sack. His presence was felt last season when the Ducks handed USC a 42-27 loss at Autzen Stadium, with Alexander contributing four tackles.
The Trojans will need to find a way to neutralize his influence if they hope to reverse their fortunes.
Week 5: Kade Eldridge and the Huskies
In Week 5, the Washington Huskies come to town, bringing with them former USC tight end Kade Eldridge. Eldridge has seen limited action in his dual tenure with both teams, recording four receptions for 25 yards, but his familiarity with USC’s system could provide a strategic edge.
Bryan Jackson's Wisconsin Challenge
On October 24th, the Trojans hit the road to face the Wisconsin Badgers at Camp Randall Stadium. Here, they’ll meet Bryan Jackson, a running back who showed flashes of potential during his two seasons at USC before transferring.
Jackson amassed 311 yards and five touchdowns on 72 carries with the Trojans. The matchup offers an intriguing subplot as Jackson looks to make his mark against his former teammates.
Harry Dalton III Returns with Maryland
As the season winds down, USC's Senior Day on November 21st will see Harry Dalton III return to the Coliseum, this time with the Maryland Terrapins. Dalton, who appeared in four games during his freshman year at USC, is aiming to help lift the Terrapins from a 4-8 finish last season back into bowl contention. His development will be something to watch as Maryland seeks to turn the tide.
This season promises to be a rollercoaster for the Trojans, with familiar faces adding layers of intrigue to their schedule. Each matchup not only tests USC’s mettle but also highlights the ever-evolving dynamics of college football today.
In Other News...
Indiana Just Lost Another Experienced Arm To The Portal
USC kept adding to its pitching mix this offseason with another veteran arm, a move that should matter for a staff looking to keep building on back-to-back NCAA Tournament trips. The Trojans are trying to push deeper in 2027, and experience has been a clear priority as they piece together a roster that can handle the grind of a full season and give them more options on the mound.
Anthony Gubitosi arrives after stops at Delaware and Indiana, giving USC a left-handed option with a lot of college baseball behind him already. He spent last season in Indianas bullpen, where he was used in a limited role, and now gets a fresh start in Los Angeles for his fifth collegiate season as the Trojans continue to reshape the pitching staff. [Read more 🡒]
USC Freshman Elbert Hill Is Already Testing A Familiar Trojans Narrative
USC spent plenty of energy building out its cornerback future in the 2026 cycle, and Elbert Rock Hill is already looking like the most interesting piece of that plan. The freshman arrived with the kind of reputation that makes coaches pay attention, and he has backed it up quickly in spring practice, where his athleticism and knack for making plays have stood out in a crowded defensive backs room.
That room is no soft landing, either, with veterans and other highly regarded recruits all pushing for snaps when the season arrives. Still, USC has not hidden its preference for getting freshmen on the field early rather than parking them for a redshirt year, and Hills fast start is giving the program another familiar Trojans storyline to monitor: whether a gifted young corner can force his way into the rotation sooner than expected. [Read more 🡒]