USC Trojans are poised to make a deep run in the 2026 College Football Playoff, thanks to a roster that many analysts describe as one of the most talented in recent memory.
A Recruiting Class That Stands Out
Head coach Lincoln Riley has assembled a class that tops national rankings, highlighted by the arrival of Keenyi Pepe, a 6‑foot‑7, 330‑pound offensive tackle who arrives as the No. 5 prospect in the 2026 cycle.
The offense returns a dominant line that allowed the fewest sacks in the country last season, featuring Elijah Paige, Tobias Raymond, Alani Noa, Justin Tauanuu and Killian O’Connor. Adding Pepe should give the unit even more stability as Jayden Maiava, who led the Big Ten in passing last year and is an Heisman Trophy contender, looks to extend his playmaking.
The defense will need to replace four linebackers — Matai Tagoa’i, AJ Tuitele, Anthony Beavers Jr. and Popo Aguirre — who entered the transfer portal. To plug the gaps, the program welcomed Washington Huskies transfer Deven Bryant, while returnees Desman Stephens II and Jadyn Waker, who combined for 122 tackles, one forced fumble and one sack last season, are expected to anchor the unit.
The season opens on Aug. 29 at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum against the San Jose State Spartans, a game that will serve as the first test of Riley’s revamped squad and a chance to gauge how quickly the new pieces click.