The USC Trojans are set to make history in 2026 with a schedule that will have them playing two games before most college football teams even suit up for their first. Fox Sports recently announced its Friday night lineup for the 2026 season, revealing that USC's Week 1 matchup against Fresno State will take place on Friday, September 4. But here's the kicker: that won't be the Trojans' season opener.

USC will kick off their 2026 campaign in Week Zero, just six days earlier, against San Jose State. This means that by the time the first real Saturday of college football rolls around, the Trojans will already have two games under their belts. It's a rare scheduling quirk that puts USC ahead of the pack in terms of game experience and preparation.

For head coach Lincoln Riley and his squad, this early start could offer a competitive edge. Playing two games before most teams play one gives the Trojans extra time to rest and recover during the middle of the season, potentially keeping key players fresher for the stretch run. While it's mostly a bizarre but noteworthy footnote in the schedule, it's the kind of advantage that could pay dividends in a long season.

As for the rest of USC's 2026 slate, kickoff times and TV details for the remaining 11 games are still up in the air. However, based on past seasons, fans should expect more announcements for the August and September games to roll out soon. Whether you're a Trojans fan or just a college football enthusiast, this early-season doubleheader is one to watch—and maybe even a reason to gear up early in your favorite USC apparel.