The University of Southern California Trojans football team improved to 3-0 in the 2026 season with a 49-30 victory over the Louisiana Ragin’ Cajuns on September 12 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Trojans showcased a potent offense led by quarterback Jayden Maiava, who threw a career-high five touchdown passes.
Maiava completed 19 of 29 passes for 261 yards and one interception. Freshman tight end Mark Bowman made a significant impact, catching six passes for 83 yards and scoring two touchdowns, the most receiving yards by a USC tight end in a game since 2009. Freshman wide receiver and return specialist Trent Mosley contributed two touchdowns, including an 86-yard punt return touchdown, the longest by a Trojan since 2013.
Running back King Miller added 118 yards on 18 carries and scored a touchdown, marking his fifth career 100-yard rushing game with a touchdown. The Trojans’ defense forced critical stops, despite some troublesome penalties.
USC head coach Lincoln Riley expressed concern about the timing and quantity of penalties but praised defensive stops and the contributions from young players, highlighting the team’s developmental progress as they prepare for upcoming conference play. Louisiana head coach Michael Desormeaux commended his team’s effort and highlighted the toughness of quarterback Lunch Winfield despite the loss.
CSB Take
The Trojans’ ability to integrate impactful freshmen like Bowman and Mosley with established contributors such as Maiava and King Miller positions USC as a promising contender as they enter Pac-12 conference play. While the offensive production was impressive, the penalty issues flagged by Coach Riley warrant attention to sustain success. Maintaining discipline and continuing the growth of younger players will be vital for USC in facing more formidable conference opponents.
Source: Original report
