USC lists five freshmen starters in opening depth chart

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Aug 27, 2026, 4:18 AM

Last updated Aug 27, 2026

USC lists five freshmen starters in opening depth chart
Summary

The USC Trojans revealed their first depth chart ahead of Saturday's season opener against San Jose State. Freshmen tight end Mark Bowman, defensive end Luke Wafle, and wide receivers Trent Mosley and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt are among the potential starters. Freshman cornerback Elbert 'Rock' Hill IV is in a competition for a starting role. Coach Lincoln Riley expressed confidence in the young players’ abilities to perform consistently on game day despite training camp injuries affecting some veterans. Other true freshmen, including wide receiver Ethan 'Boobie' Feaster and linebacker Talanoa Ili, were also included in the two-deep chart. Riley will address the media again Thursday morning for more insights on the team's preparations.

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Status Watch
  • USC reveals first depth chart for season opener on August 29.
  • Five freshmen listed as potential starters, showing team’s youth emphasis.
  • Injuries to veterans have led to rookie opportunities.
  • Coach Lincoln Riley praises freshmen's practice performance.
  • Tobias Raymond will start at center due to injury to Kilian O’Connor.
Latest Updates
  • 4:18 AMYahoo SportsUSC’s fabulous freshmen are well represented on first two-deep
What they're saying
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Freshmen rule! That could be an early slogan for the USC football team after the first depth chart released Wednesday evening ahead of the season opener showed five potential starters...

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