The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will host one of the most consequential games of the 2026 season when the No. 18 USC Trojans (3-1, 0-1) take on the Washington Huskies (3-1, 0-1) on Saturday, October 3. Both teams enter this matchup with their first Big Ten losses of the year—USC’s 41-27 defeat to Oregon last week and Washington’s 27-24 heartbreak at home to Minnesota—but neither can afford another setback. For USC, this is a chance to reclaim momentum after a season-opening 3-0 start, while Washington must prove they’re more than a one-hit wonder after three straight series wins over the Trojans.
The series history favors USC, which holds a commanding 51-32-4 edge over Washington, but the Huskies have won their last three meetings, including a 2025 contest that saw them outlast a Trojans defense that has been exposed late in close games. Washington’s Demond Williams Jr. has been the engine of their offense, amassing 1,129 passing yards and 165 rushing yards this season while accounting for nine touchdowns. His ability to extend plays and keep drives alive will be critical against a USC defense that has struggled to contain high-powered offenses. Meanwhile, USC’s Jayden Maiava will need to elevate his play after a disappointing performance against Oregon, where the Trojans’ offense was stifled by a stout Ducks defense.
The game carries weight beyond just conference standings. USC’s failure to reach the College Football Playoff since its inception in 2014 has fueled a sense of urgency, and a loss here could further delay their return to the national spotlight. Washington, meanwhile, is chasing a return to the playoff after a disappointing 2025 campaign, and a win would signal they’re ready to compete with the league’s elite. The Huskies’ three-game losing streak—including the Minnesota loss—has raised questions about their consistency, while USC’s late-game struggles have become a recurring theme.
With the game kicking off at 7:30 p.m. ET on NBC and streaming on Peacock, fans will have multiple ways to watch. For those seeking the best channel lineup, DIRECTV’s MySports Pack offers a comprehensive sports package, including ESPN, FS1, and the Big Ten Network, along with a free ESPN Unlimited subscription. Alternatively, Peacock’s Premium tiers provide live access to the game, though regional restrictions may apply. The atmosphere in the Coliseum will be electric, as both fan bases turn out for a clash that could reshape the rest of the season.
This isn’t just a game—it’s a test of character for both teams. USC must prove they can handle a Washington defense that has been a thorn in their side, while Washington must silence the doubters after a shaky start. The winner will take a significant step toward securing a Big Ten title and, more importantly, a playoff berth. The loser, however, will face an uphill battle to reclaim their footing in a league where consistency is king.
