Los Angeles – In the season‑opening clash at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, No. 14 Southern California rolled to a 42-26 victory over San Jose State. Quarterback Jayden Maiava led the charge, completing 25 of 29 passes for 286 yards, two passing touchdowns, and adding a rushing score on the opening drive.
Wide receiver Trent Mosley was a key target, hauling in seven receptions for 118 yards and a touchdown. Fellow freshman Kayden Dixon‑Wyatt also found the end zone, while Riley Wormley and Shahn Alston each recorded their first rushing touchdowns for the Trojans.
Strong start, but injuries loom
USC built a commanding 35-3 lead before the fourth quarter, thanks to a sharp defensive performance under new coordinator Gary Patterson. San Jose State quarterback Luke Weaver sparked a late comeback with three fourth‑quarter touchdowns, but the Trojans held on.
Coach Lincoln Riley highlighted the depth of his roster, noting that the team played without several expected contributors due to injuries, including All‑American defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart and projected starters Tanook Hines and transfer receiver Terrell Anderson.
Looking ahead
The Trojans remain focused on their College Football Playoff aspirations, with Maiava and a host of emerging playmakers expected to drive the offense forward. Freshman quarterback Jonas Williams saw action in the final quarter, posting 55 passing yards and an interception as a potential future successor.
USC’s next games are scheduled for Friday, Sept. 4, when they host Fresno State at home, while San Jose State travels to Eastern Michigan.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
