USC football: The iconic program, its legacy, and the 2026 season

USC football is one of the most iconic programs in college football, carrying a tradition built on star quarterbacks, explosive offenses, legendary players, and some of the biggest moments in the sport. The Trojans have produced Heisman Trophy winners, NFL stars, and championship teams while making the cardinal and gold one of the most recognizable brands in college football. From the Pete Carroll era and the dominance of Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart to the modern Lincoln Riley era, USC has consistently been a program where expectations are sky-high every Saturday. The Trojans are also known for playing fast, aggressive football and putting elite talent on display. The Coliseum has hosted generations of unforgettable games, while USC's rivalry with Notre Dame remains one of college football's most famous annual matchups. The program's history includes national championships, legendary quarterbacks like Carson Palmer, Matt Leinart and Caleb Williams, and countless players who went on to become NFL stars. Few college football brands carry the same combination of history, Hollywood spotlight, and recruiting power. And USC is already making noise in the 2026 season. The No. 12 Trojans moved to 4-0 after defeating Rutgers 42-35 in their Big Ten opener on September 19, with Jayden Maiava throwing for 277 yards and two touchdowns and King Miller adding 102 rushing yards and a touchdown. USC also got a 99-yard interception return from Prophet Brown in the win. The Trojans now turn their attention to Oregon on September 26 in another major Big Ten test.