USC opens 2026 with 42-26 win but lingering questions

USC defeated San Jose State 42-26 behind efficient quarterback Jayden Maiava, who completed 25 of 29 passes, and an immediate seven-catch, 118-yard debut from freshman Trent Mosley. Additional freshman evaluations reinforce the impact of Mosley, Luke Wafle and other first-year players, but the offense's expected success, late defensive collapse and sparse Coliseum crowd continue to define the broader story.