A rocky opening
The Trojans have opened the season winless, sitting at 0-2-1 after three contests that have pitted them against some of the nation's elite. Losses to top‑10 foes, including No. 2 Duke and BYU, have underscored the difficulty of the early schedule, while a narrow draw against an unranked opponent has left the team searching for answers.
Offensively, USC has managed just two goals in those three games, a scarcity that reflects both limited scoring chances and the absence of production from their most touted attackers. The lack of a reliable finisher has placed added pressure on the midfield and defense to keep the team competitive.
A spark in the second half
Junior forward Emma Hamberlin provided a rare bright spot, netting two goals in the second half of a 2-0 victory over BYU. Her breakthrough marked her first goals in 36 career appearances for the Cougars and hinted at untapped potential within the roster.
Freshman goalkeeper Josie Biehl earned her second collegiate start in that match, facing five shots and conceding two goals. While her inexperience showed, the young net‑minder’s willingness to command the box offered a glimpse of future stability between the posts.
Defensive vulnerabilities
The defensive unit has struggled to contain high‑caliber attacks, particularly when confronting elite opponents. Biehl’s early performances revealed gaps in positioning and communication that the coaching staff will need to address before conference play intensifies.
Compounding the issue is the team's top shot leaders, Rhea Moore and Jaiden Rodriguez, who have yet to register a goal this season. Their silence in the scoring column has left the offense without a secondary source of firepower, forcing reliance on Hamberlin’s emerging contributions.
Looking ahead
USC’s upcoming nonconference slate includes home fixtures against unranked New Mexico State and Saint Mary’s before a highly anticipated road test at No. 1 Stanford. The schedule offers a chance to build momentum, but the looming matchup with the nation’s top-ranked team will likely serve as a definitive gauge of the Trojans’ progress.
Recruiting classes had generated high expectations, yet the early results suggest a need for adjustment in strategy and execution. How the coaching staff responds to these challenges will determine whether the season can pivot from a rocky start to a resilient campaign.