While we're deep in the college football offseason, the gears for the 2026 season are already turning. The Big Ten has officially unveiled the details for its 2026 Football Media Days, setting the stage for the conference's official kickoff to the new campaign.

Mark your calendars for July 28-30, as the event returns to the familiar backdrop of Chicago. The schedule will feature six teams addressing the media each day, with USC and head coach Lincoln Riley slated for the opening day, Monday, July 28. They'll share the spotlight with Illinois, Iowa, Penn State, Rutgers, and Wisconsin.

For the Trojans, this continues a tour of major cities for their Big Ten media appearances, following stops in Indianapolis (2024) and Las Vegas (2025). It's a prime opportunity for players, like potential attendee quarterback Jayden Maiava, to set the tone for a critical season ahead of the expanded College Football Playoff era.

With USC scheduled to open the 2026 season unusually early on August 29 against San Jose State, the timeline is tight. Fall camp will likely begin shortly after the media days conclude, making this Chicago event the true starting pistol for the Trojans' preparation. It's the first major signal that football is back, and the countdown to kickoff is officially on.