Ohio State vs. USC: Big Ten Powerhouse Takes on Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Ohio State vs. USC: Big Ten Powerhouse Takes on Trojans at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Ohio State is set to face USC at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in a highly anticipated matchup on October 31, marking their first meeting as Big Ten opponents. The Buckeyes boast a formidable offensive trio with quarterback Julian Sayin, running back Bo Jackson, and wide receiver Jeremiah Smith, making them a tough challenge for the Trojans in 2026. While Oregon also poses a strong quarterback in Dante Moore, Ohio State holds the edge in the running back and wide receiver positions.

Julian Sayin, Ohio State's quarterback, had an impressive season last year, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 32 touchdowns with a remarkable 77.0% completion rate, setting a Big Ten record. Sayin, a Heisman finalist, is known for his accuracy and is considered a top prospect for the NFL Draft. Bo Jackson emerged as the standout running back for the Buckeyes last season, surpassing 1,000 rushing yards as a true freshman and showcasing his skills as a pass-catcher. Jeremiah Smith, a two-time All-American receiver, stands out among Ohio State's talented offensive players and aims to win the Biletnikoff Award.

Ohio State strengthened its coaching staff by hiring former NFL head coach Matt Patricia as the defensive coordinator, leading to a top-ranked defense last season. The addition of former head coach Arthur Smith as the offensive coordinator further bolsters the Buckeyes' coaching lineup. USC made a significant move by bringing in defensive coordinator Gary Patterson, a respected coach with a history of building strong defenses during his tenure at TCU. The clash between Ohio State and USC promises to be a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse programs.