USC enters the post‑spring college football rankings for the 2026 season at No. 14, a spot that places the Trojans behind traditional powerhouses such as Ohio State, Oregon and Indiana in the Big Ten.
The early rankings reflect a blend of returning talent, recruiting gains and the impact of offseason moves, setting the stage for a competitive conference slate.
In the previous season, USC captured nine victories but fell short of a College Football Playoff berth, a result that has heightened expectations for Riley’s second full year in charge.
Head coach Lincoln Riley, who compiled a 35‑18 record since taking the helm in 2022, posted double‑digit wins in his debut campaign but has yet to replicate that surge, a fact that adds intrigue to the Trojans’ trajectory.
Key Matchups Ahead
The upcoming schedule pits USC against several of the nation’s top teams, including regular‑season showdowns with Ohio State, Oregon and Indiana, each of which could prove pivotal for playoff positioning.
Betting markets already list Ohio State as the Big Ten favorite at +180 odds, while sportsbooks such as DraftKings Sportsbook are preparing for heightened wagering activity as fans anticipate these marquee matchups.
With the playoff picture still taking shape, the Trojans are focused on turning early‑season promise into sustained excellence, a goal that will likely be measured against the performances of the conference’s elite.