USC opened its 2026 football season with a solid 42-26 victory over San Jose State, but the win was overshadowed by an unexpectedly thin crowd at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Fans and commentators took to social media to point out the empty seats, questioning whether the Trojans can generate the level of support expected of a top‑15 program.
Game recap and attendance snapshot
Despite the lackluster turnout, the Trojans displayed a balanced attack, scoring early and maintaining the lead throughout the game. Quarterback John Doe threw for 280 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Mike Smith added 110 rushing yards and a score of his own. The defense forced two turnovers, helping secure the win.
However, the atmosphere in the Coliseum was far from the raucous environment typical of a major college football program. At kickoff, only a fraction of the 77,000‑seat stadium was filled, leaving large sections of red seats empty. By the second quarter, attendance had improved modestly, but the stadium never approached a sell‑out level.
Why the crowd was small
Several factors contributed to the low numbers. The game took place on a Friday night just before a holiday weekend, a time when Los Angeles traffic is notoriously heavy. Many potential attendees cited the “traffic hellscape” as a deterrent. Additionally, the opponent, Fresno State, is a Pac‑12 member that does not traditionally draw large crowds to away games.
Local observers also noted a cultural element: Los Angeles residents often arrive fashionably late to events, and many who did show up waited until after the first quarter to find their seats. This pattern left the early‑game atmosphere feeling empty, even though the stadium filled out somewhat later.
Looking ahead for USC
The Trojans’ next home game will be a true test of fan engagement when they host the Oregon Ducks, a Big Ten opponent, on September 26. That matchup is expected to draw a larger crowd, given Oregon’s national profile and the rivalry potential.
USC’s athletic department has emphasized that the program is poised for a strong season, citing depth at key positions and a renewed focus on recruiting. While the opening crowd was disappointing, officials remain optimistic that the team’s on‑field performance will translate into higher attendance as the schedule progresses.
Community perspective
Local alumni groups and parent organizations have called for greater community outreach to bring families back to the Coliseum. They argue that a vibrant fan base not only supports the team but also reinforces the university’s role as a cultural anchor in Los Angeles.
In the meantime, USC fans are encouraged to plan ahead for traffic, consider alternative transportation options, and arrive early to enjoy the full game‑day experience. With a promising roster and a challenging schedule ahead, the Trojans hope to turn the early attendance dip into a rallying point for the season.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
