The USC Trojans kicked off their 2026 campaign with a decisive 42-26 victory over San Jose State on Saturday, but the sparse attendance at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum cast a shadow over the team's performance. Announced at 51,144, the crowd left large sections of the 77,500-seat venue empty, even as the Trojans built a commanding 28-0 halftime lead.
Factors contributing to the low turnout included the noon kickoff during a Southern California heat wave, with temperatures soaring into the high 90s and offering little shade within the stadium. Additionally, San Jose State's 3-9 record from the previous season and USC entering the game as heavy favorites played a role. However, resale tickets were reportedly available for as low as $6, making affordability a non-issue.
The timing of the opener offered USC a rare opportunity to capture the city's attention, with the Dodgers playing out of town and the Lakers, Rams, and Chargers yet to begin their seasons. Despite this opening, the low attendance underscored a perception that Los Angeles fans often wait for higher stakes before filling stadiums.
USC averaged 67,783 home fans in 2025, but Head Coach Lincoln Riley has previously acknowledged that historical success alone is insufficient to guarantee a full Coliseum. "You have to win. You have to give them something," Riley stated last season. While the Trojans delivered a win against San Jose State, the optics of the attendance suggest that rebuilding consistent fan engagement remains a significant task.
Optimism surrounding the Trojans' on-field potential is high, with strong performances from quarterback Jayden Maiava and the defense in the initial three quarters. Upcoming matchups against strong opponents like Oregon, Washington, and Ohio State are anticipated to draw larger crowds and alter the atmosphere within the Coliseum.