League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Country: United States Category: Coaching

USC Trojans seek to prove critics wrong before 2026 football season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 28, 2026, 3:06 PM

Last updated Aug 28, 2026

USC Trojans seek to prove critics wrong before 2026 football season

Summary

The USC Trojans look to address preseason doubts as the 2026 college football season approaches. Following 12 consecutive seasons without a College Football Playoff appearance, USC must improve this year, especially after being excluded from the USA TODAY Sports preseason All-America team. Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana received significant recognition, putting additional pressure on the Trojans to validate their potential on the field. USC faces a pivotal moment to reshape its narrative amidst rising frustrations within the program.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Key Details

•USC has not appeared in the College Football Playoff for 12 seasons.
•The Trojans were not represented in the USA TODAY Sports preseason All-America team.
•Programs like Ohio State, Oregon, and Indiana dominated preseason rankings.
•Lincoln Riley's coaching reputation faces scrutiny amid mounting frustrations.

Latest Updates

3:06 PMYahoo Sports — USC football gets fresh motivation before 2026 season begins

What they're saying

"
Ohio State, Oregon and Indiana have crowded USC out of preseason All-America teams. The Trojans simply have to make their statement on the field
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NCAAF College Sports