No. 14 Southern California (USC) defeated San Jose State 42-26 in its season opener on Saturday. The Trojans, led by quarterback Jayden Maiava, showcased a dynamic offense and a solid defense, building a 35-3 lead before the Spartans mounted a late rally. Maiava passed for 286 yards and two touchdowns, adding a rushing score. Trent Mosley caught seven passes for 118 yards and a touchdown in his debut, while Kayden Dixon-Wyatt also caught a TD pass. Riley Wormley and Shahn Alston rushed for their first career touchdowns. New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson's unit looked sharp until the fourth quarter, when San Jose State's Luke Weaver threw three touchdown passes against USC's backups. Weaver, a Hawaii transfer, finished with 234 passing yards and four total touchdowns. USC played without several key players due to injuries, including defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart and receivers Tanook Hines and Terrell Anderson. The Trojans' young receivers showed promise, and freshman quarterback Jonas Williams saw action in the fourth quarter. USC hosts Fresno State on Friday, Sept. 4, while San Jose State visits Eastern Michigan the same day.