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No. 14 USC opened its season with a commanding 42-26 victory over San Jose State on Saturday at the Coliseum, with quarterback Jayden Maiava completing 25 of 29 passes for 286 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score. The Trojans built a substantial 35-3 halftime lead behind several standout debuts, signaling promise for a roster with College Football Playoff aspirations under coach Lincoln Riley.
Multiple new contributors made immediate impacts for USC’s offense. Receiver Trent Mosley caught seven passes for 118 yards and a touchdown in his first game with the program, while fellow newcomer Kayden Dixon-Wyatt hauled in a touchdown reception. Running backs Riley Wormley and Shahn Alston each recorded their first touchdowns as Trojans, demonstrating depth in Riley’s offensive scheme.
The Trojans played without several key contributors due to injuries, including star defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart and receivers Tanook Hines and Terrell Anderson. Despite these absences, the USC defense under new coordinator Gary Patterson dominated through three quarters before San Jose State mounted a fourth-quarter rally against backup defenders.
Hawaii transfer Luke Weaver orchestrated three late scoring drives for the Spartans, throwing touchdown passes to Jerry McClure and Jordan Anderson while adding a rushing touchdown. Weaver finished with 234 passing yards as San Jose State attempted to close the gap in the final quarter.
Freshman quarterback Jonas Williams, viewed as Maiava’s possible successor, appeared in the fourth quarter and completed passes for 55 yards alongside one interception. Defensive end Luke Wafle, rated the top overall recruit in last year’s recruiting class by some evaluators, impressed on the defensive line.
USC faces Fresno State on Friday, September 4, while San Jose State travels to Eastern Michigan for its next contest on the same date.
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