USC’s season is about to get real, here’s where things stand

The USC Trojans are currently in their second bye week of the regular season, using the time to prepare for the final stretch represented by a five-week gauntlet that will ultimately shape the narrative around the program heading into the postseason and beyond. Before we look ahead, though, let’s take a moment to evaluate how the Trojans have performed up to this point in the year.

The Trojans have more than doubled their win total compared to their losses through the first seven games, jumping out to a 5–2 record. However, after a strong 4–0 start, USC has stumbled in two of its last three matchups.

Both defeats came on the road against ranked opponents in Illinois and Notre Dame, and both felt avoidable. As a result, the Trojans now find themselves staring down a five-week stretch that will serve as a de facto play-in for the College Football Playoff.

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Each of USC’s five wins has come against FBS opponents: Missouri State, Georgia Southern, Purdue, Michigan State, and Michigan. The victory over then-No. 15 Michigan stands out as the Trojans’ signature win of the season so far and provides a strong anchor for their postseason résumé.

While the Trojans have performed well for the most part, there are still glaring issues that need to be addressed, particularly in the defensive secondary and the team has also been hit by unfortunate injuries to running backs Waymond Jordan and Eli Sanders.

The offense has been nothing short of electric. The passing game, in particular, has been lights out, with two likely NFL Draft selections in Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane leading the charge for quarterback Jayden Maiava, who has been historically efficient under center, even by Lincoln Riley’s lofty standards.

The Trojans have done a much better job this season of handling Big Ten play, and it’s clear the program is developing talent, particularly along the offensive line. So far, USC hasn’t shown any signs of potential decommitments and, in fact, has added two in-season commitments in the secondary.

With momentum continuing to build on the recruiting trail, the odds of the Trojans finishing with the nation’s top 2026 class are looking increasingly likely.

The Trojans have sustained perhaps one more loss than they would have hoped through the first seven games, but the final stretch offers plenty of opportunity for redemption. Four of USC’s remaining five matchups appear winnable on paper, though success will hinge on the team’s ability to finish drives and execute in high-leverage situations.

The toughest test comes in a road trip to Oregon, but if the Trojans can find a way to be more efficient and composed in clutch moments, a 5–0 or 4–1 finish to the regular season is well within reach.