Trojans predicted to contend for College Football Playoff spot in 2026

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Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans need to finally display dominance in the Big Ten, the best conference in college football. The talent gap between USC and other top teams in the Big Ten is not great. USC has the No. 1 recruiting class and made a huge improvement on the defensive staff with the hiring of Gary Patterson. This is the season for USC to match the standard the Oregon Ducks, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Indiana Hoosiers have set.

In a recent article, analyst Brad Crawford projects the national title winner to be a Big Ten team for a fourth straight season. He also names three other Big Ten teams that should be in contention for a playoff berth this season:

“USC, Washington and Michigan shouldn’t be ignored, either. It would not surprise me if at least two Big Ten teams reached the semifinals.”

The Trojans have a younger team this season, but they brought in some of the best young freshmen in the country. Names like Mark Bowman and Luke Wafle can be key contributors early. Starting quarterback Jayden Maiava should take a step forward from a stellar season last year. The Trojans’ run game will be elite with King Miller and Waymond Jordan, as will their passing game. Gary Patterson is leading a defense full of talent. The Trojans have all the resources necessary to make a College Football Berth.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Trojans predicted to contend for College Football Playoff spot in 2026

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