
USC Trojans Eye First College Football Playoff Berth in 2026
A look at the key newcomers and strategic shifts that could propel the USC Trojans to a historic playoff run.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Elijah Paige across Football.

A look at the key newcomers and strategic shifts that could propel the USC Trojans to a historic playoff run.

Senior lineman Kilian O’Connor’s career‑ending injury during fall camp forces a reshuffle of the USC offensive line, opening the door for redshirt junior Tobias Raymond and a deep group of young players.

The Trojans are banking on a potent offense led by Jayden Maiava, a top‑ranked recruiting class and new additions to shore up the linebacker corps as they open against San Jose State.

EA Sports' College Football 27 brings a new generation of college football gaming, featuring USC's standout players and a roster that highlights both high ratings and notable omissions.

Jayden Maiava threw for 3,711 yards and ranked fourth in Pro Football Focus’s deep‑passing list, while USC prepares to replace top receivers but returns a solid offensive line and new playmakers.

Electronic Arts has released its newest set of team and venue ratings for College Football 27, showcasing the USC Trojans in the top fifteen and revealing insights into player projections and historic context.

Electronic Arts has published overall team ratings for the upcoming College Football 27, placing the USC Trojans in the top fifteen with strong offensive and defensive scores, while the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum fails to make the toughest venues list.

Ranked No. 5 nationally and atop the West, USC's offensive line returns all five starters, adds a five‑star recruit and aims to boost quarterback Jayden Maiava's development while targeting a College Football Playoff berth.

USC’s 2026 campaign hinges on the health and productivity of running back Waymond Jordan, whose 2025 flashes of explosiveness and a fully intact offensive line set the stage for a potential surge in the conference and beyond.