USC Trojans visit Rutgers in 2026: What Iowa fans should know
The 2026 college football season brings a notable matchup to the Big Ten when the USC Trojans travel to Piscataway, New Jersey, to face Rutgers in Week 3. For Iowa fans, this game offers a glimpse into the evolving conference landscape and a chance to size up a team that will visit Kinnick Stadium later in the season.
USC enters the 2026 campaign with the most returning starters in the nation, including quarterback Jayden Maiava, who led the Big Ten in passing yards last season with 3,711 yards and 24 touchdowns. The Trojans also bring back all five starting offensive linemen, giving them one of the most experienced front lines in the country.
Why this matters to Iowa
The Hawkeyes faced USC last season in a three-game win streak for the Trojans that included victories over Nebraska, Northwestern, and Iowa. That loss still stings for Iowa fans, and the 2026 matchup in Iowa City will be circled on the calendar.
USC's offense under head coach Lincoln Riley remains explosive, but the team has struggled against top-tier competition. Last season, the Trojans lost to Illinois, Notre Dame, and Oregon, exposing defensive weaknesses that Iowa's physical style could exploit.
USC strengths: Experience and offensive firepower
Beyond Maiava and the offensive line, USC returns running backs Waymond Jordan and King Miller, who combined for 6.3 yards per carry last season. The receiving corps will feature new faces, including Tanook Hines, Zacharyus Williams, and N.C. State transfer Terrell Anderson.
Defensively, the Trojans bring back linebacker Desman Stephens II, who led the team with 89 tackles last season. The pass rush duo of Kameryn Crawford and Braylan Shelby combined for 10 sacks, and Penn State transfer Zuriah Fisher adds depth to the front seven.
USC weaknesses: Defensive consistency and receiver losses
USC lost its top two wide receivers, Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane, who combined for 128 catches and 1,900 yards last season. Replacing that production will be a challenge, even with a veteran quarterback.
On defense, the Trojans ranked 49th nationally and allowed opponents to convert over 40% of third downs. New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson, a veteran coach, has been brought in to fix those issues.
What to expect in 2026
For Iowa, the key will be containing Maiava and forcing USC to sustain long drives. The Hawkeyes' defense, traditionally strong against the run, will need to pressure the quarterback and limit big plays. If Iowa can control the clock with its running game and win the turnover battle, the Hawkeyes have a real chance to flip last year's result.
USC enters the season with College Football Playoff aspirations, but a loss to Rutgers or Iowa would derail those hopes. For Iowa fans, the 2026 season offers a chance to measure the program against one of the Big Ten's newest and most talented additions.