USC is gearing up for the opening kickoff of its 2026 football campaign on August 29, when the Trojans will host San Jose State in a matchup that marks the start of a new era for the program.
Among the alumni being celebrated in the school’s daily countdown series is Claude Pelon, a defensive lineman who donned the cardinal and gold from 2014 through 2015.
During his two‑year stint at the University of Southern California, Pelon compiled 46 tackles and four sacks, numbers that barely capture the moments that defined his college tenure.
A brief but impactful college career
In 2014, Pelon’s defensive instincts shone when he swatted a field‑goal attempt against Arizona, a play that helped secure an upset victory for the Trojans.
A year later, he delivered a strip sack on UCLA quarterback Josh Rosen, forcing a turnover that set up a pivotal touchdown for USC.
Pelon’s professional journey began when he signed as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets, a move that took him to the NFL’s biggest stage.
He appeared in a single game for the Jets in 2017, registering two tackles before moving on to a brief stint with the Tennessee Titans.
Though his time in the league was short, Pelon’s college highlights remain a touchstone for fans who remember his knack for disrupting opponents at crucial junctures.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season
The upcoming clash with San Jose State will be more than a season opener; it will be a chance for the Trojans to showcase the depth built since Pelon’s era and to honor the contributions of players who laid early groundwork for the program’s recent resurgence.