USC is gearing up for the start of its 2026 football campaign, slated for August 29 when the Trojans travel to face San Jose State. As part of a daily countdown, the program is spotlighting former players whose numbers will soon be celebrated on the field.
Revisiting a Trojan Icon
One of the most revered figures in Trojan history is Anthony Muñoz, a Hall of Fame offensive lineman who anchored the USC line from 1976 through 1979. Despite battling injuries that sidelined him in three of those four seasons, Muñoz earned second‑team All‑American honors in 1978 and first‑team All‑Pac‑10 as a junior. He returned from a severe knee injury in time to help the Trojans secure a 17‑16 victory over Ohio State in the Rose Bowl, a win that denied the Buckeyes a perfect record and a potential national championship.
Enduring Influence
Muñoz’s collegiate success paved the way for a distinguished NFL tenure with the Cincinnati Bengals. Selected third overall in the 1980 draft, he went on to play 13 seasons, earning 11 Pro Bowl selections, nine first‑team All‑Pro nods, and the 1991 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award. His excellence was recognized again in 1998 when he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and in 2019 he was named to the league’s 100th‑anniversary All‑Time Team.
Countdown to Kickoff
Even decades after his retirement, Muñoz is still regarded as perhaps the greatest offensive lineman to ever play the game. His blend of durability, skill, and character continues to inspire current and future Trojans as they write the next chapter of the program. The excitement builds toward the season opener against San Jose State, a game that will mark the first step of a new era and set the tone for the aspirations of the 2026 Trojans.