USC’s football program enters a pivotal stretch of the season, one that could determine whether the Trojans secure a spot in the College Football Playoff or fall short of expectations.
After a relatively light September that featured three consecutive home games, the team now faces a gauntlet of away and neutral-site battles that will test depth and resilience.
The first major test arrives against the Washington Huskies, a program that finished 9‑4 last year and returns a core group of starters. The Huskies’ defense remains among the nation’s best, making the upcoming clash a true measuring stick.
A week later, USC travels to State College, Pennsylvania, where Penn State’s iconic Beaver Stadium creates one of college football’s most intimidating atmospheres. The Nittany Lions could be 5‑0 or 4‑1 when they meet the Trojans, adding urgency to the matchup.
Key Matchups to Watch
Wisconsin’s Camp Randall Stadium presents another hostile environment. The Badgers’ ground game and physical style have historically troubled visiting teams, and USC will need to adapt quickly.
The climax of the month comes on October 31, when the Trojans host Ohio State in a primetime showdown. The Buckeyes, perennial contenders, could decide the Big Ten title, shape the playoff picture, and influence Heisman Trophy conversations.
Beyond the marquee opponents, the schedule also includes games against Oregon, Fresno State and San Jose State, each bringing its own storylines, from a former USC assistant coaching the Bulldogs to a 0‑6 all‑time record for the Spartans against the Trojans.
Coaching staff dynamics add another layer of intrigue. Lincoln Riley, now in his second season with the Trojans, will be under the microscope as will assistants such as Matt Entz, who returns to his alma mater with Fresno State, and Ryan Day, whose Ohio State squad could deal a decisive blow.
Quarterback Jayden Maiava, along with emerging playmakers like Demond Williams Jr., will have to navigate a schedule that could produce multiple top‑10 finishes and, potentially, a Heisman conversation for the quarterback or a Coach of the Year nod for Riley.