A Season of Challenges
USC football currently sits outside the top five of the Big Ten, a placement that reflects a season marked by narrow defeats and inconsistent performances.
The Trojans are slated to meet four of the conference’s elite programs this year, including the teams that occupy the top five spots, testing their mettle against the league’s strongest competition.
Penn State’s Recent Dominance
Across the state line, Penn State has carved out a reputation as a perennial contender, having secured a College Football Playoff semifinal berth and an appearance in the 2024 Big Ten Championship Game.
Ranked No. 5 in the conference, the Nittany Lions have demonstrated a depth of experience and recruiting success that keeps them ahead of USC, which sits at No. 7.
Coaching Landscapes and Rivalries
The strategic directions of both programs are shaped by seasoned coaches. Bill O'Brien, now at Penn State, brings a disciplined approach that has yielded consistent breakthroughs, while James Franklin continues to steer the Nittany Lions with a high‑octane offense.
Meanwhile, Matt Campbell’s Iowa State squad, though not directly in the Big Ten, exemplifies the kind of program building that USC hopes to emulate as it seeks to close the gap.
Looking Ahead to 2026
USC’s administration and coaching staff have publicly outlined a roadmap to elevate the program, targeting a decisive improvement that could see the Trojans surpass Penn State by the 2026 season.
Recruiting upgrades, facility enhancements, and a focus on defensive resilience are cited as key pillars of the plan, with the ultimate goal of translating competitive exposure into tangible wins on the field.
The upcoming schedule, which includes marquee matchups against the conference’s top tier, will serve as a litmus test for the Trojans’ progress and a preview of the ambitions that could reshape the Big Ten hierarchy.