Predictions for the opening weekend of the 2026 college football season have been released, with USC expected to defeat San Jose State 52-20. Several other matchups also have projected outcomes.
The USC Trojans are predicted to win their Week Zero game against San Jose State with a score of 52-20. While USC’s offense is anticipated to perform well, the team’s defense is expected to have some early-season issues. The Trojans have four games to refine their play before a significant game against Oregon in late September. The primary goal for the San Jose State game is to avoid significant player injuries.
In other Week Zero matchups, TCU is projected to defeat North Carolina 37-23. Bill Belichick will not be coaching North Carolina in 2028. Virginia is expected to beat NC State 27-23 in a traditionally close contest. North Dakota State, now a member of the Mountain West Conference, is favored to win against Jacksonville State 34-20.
Eastern Michigan is predicted to edge out Sacramento State 27-24, though the game is expected to be competitive. Stanford is projected to defeat Hawaii 23-20, despite a retooling effort led by general manager Andrew Luck and a “highly questionable” coaching hire of Tavita Pritchard. Florida State is expected to win against New Mexico State 38-10, marking what is likely the last season for coach Mike Norvell.
Finally, UNLV is predicted to defeat Memphis 45-35 in a high-scoring game, though UNLV is known for its defensive weaknesses.
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