Why USC will beat Fresno State in second game of 2026 season

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The USCTrojans have more football this week and more opportunity to build excitement about this team. The Trojans will face a familiar foe, as former linebackers coach Matt Entz will lead Fresno State into the Coliseum. Some key factors will cause Entz and the Bulldogs to come up short.

Here is how Friday's game will pan out for the USC Trojans against Fresno State:

Trojans' offense will be fueled by run game

The Trojans in the last game were dominant on the ground, but they did not put up as much production as they could have. The offensive line set the tone early, and they were able to rip off big chunk-play runs and get consistent success on the ground. The Trojans will have success through the air no matter what with their talent. In Game 2, USC's run game will be the big story of this game. Waymond Jordan and King Miller will have big days.

Tanook Hines will be the top-performing receiver

Tanook Hines is healthy for this upcoming game, and he is listed as one of the starters. Lincoln Riley and Jayden Maiava will make an effort to get him the ball. I think Hines will have 7 catches in this game for about 80 yards. He will not miss a beat in his season debut.

Mark Bowman gets heavily involved in the pass game

Last week, Mark Bowman was dominant in run blocking. Bowman caught the first pass of the game, and he did not contribute much else in the passing game. I think Bowman will be right behind Hines in receiving production. Bowman will finish the game with 6 catches for 50 yards and a touchdown. The freshman will show the weapon he is against Fresno State.

Trojans' defense will be the best unit in this game

Last week the offense put up 46 points, and the defense took their foot off the gas, surrendering 26 points in the second half. Gary Patterson will look to make a statement in this game. With the defensive line getting healthier, the pass rush will be a factor. The Trojans will get 4-5 sacks in this game. Multiple players on the defense will leave the game with an interception. The defense we saw in the first half last week will be present in all 4 quarters for this game.

Elbert Rock Hill will get an interception

Elbert Rock Hill showed some flashes in Game 1. He has earned his reps all camp long, and he did not disappoint in his debut. I expect him to keep up the good play and steal an interception against Fresno State.

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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Why USC will beat Fresno State in second game of 2026 season

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