USC enters the inaugural College Fantasy Football game on Yahoo Sports as one of the most anticipated teams, boasting the most returning starters in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
A Deep Returning Core
The Trojans will field 15 starters next season, the highest number among FBS programs, but they must replace nearly 2,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdown catches from their top two pass‑catchers.
Among the candidates to fill that void, sophomore wide receiver Tanook Hines has emerged as a breakout prospect. In 2025 he recorded 34 receptions for 561 yards and two touchdowns, and his late‑season surge has raised expectations for a larger role.
Riley's Fantasy Legacy
Coach Lincoln Riley's offenses have historically produced fantasy‑relevant quarterbacks and receivers alike, from Heisman‑winning signal callers to standout pass‑catchers. That track record adds intrigue to the Trojans' outlook, especially as they look to leverage multiple playmakers.
Draft analysts point to Hines and the emerging options at tight end and wide receiver — such as Tucker Ashcraft, Zacharyus Williams and Terrell Anderson — as potential value picks, while the presence of quarterback Jayden Maiava provides a stable foundation for offensive production.