USC enters the 2026 college football season as a significant favorite against San Jose State in Week 0, with oddsmakers setting the Trojans at 38.5 points. The matchup marks the start of a new era for both programs, with USC aiming for a national championship under head coach Lincoln Riley and San Jose State under Ken Niumatalolo.
Despite a roster that features a Heisman-caliber quarterback, USC's expectations are high, especially as they prepare to compete in the Big Ten. Anything less than a College Football Playoff appearance would be considered a disappointment for the Trojans.
San Jose State, conversely, is projected to be one of the weaker teams in the country this season. Head coach Ken Niumatalolo faced a challenging 2025 season marked by injuries to key players, including quarterback Walker Eget, who played on a torn ACL. The offensive line also struggled, and the running backs were plagued by injuries. This has led to a significant roster reset for the Spartans in 2026.
Niumatalolo will rely on Hawaii transfer Luke Weaver at quarterback to lead the offense, but the supporting cast is described as sparse. The defense is also a concern, with an inexperienced unit and a new coordinator, Bojay Filimoeatu. Facing USC in the Coliseum for Week 0 presents a daunting start for the remade San Jose State team.
Analyst Michael Leboff predicts USC could surpass 50 points in the game, despite the likelihood of Riley rotating his lineup in the second half. The recommended bet is USC -38.5.
USC quarterback Jayden Maiava is among the contenders for the Heisman Trophy this season.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley will lead his team into the 2026 season with high expectations.
