USC · Big TenMatt Leinart sets 10-win playoff expectation for USC
The former USC quarterback says the Trojans need 10 wins to reach the playoff amid a schedule led by Oregon, Ohio State and Indiana.
AUG 28, 2026
Matt Leinart expects USC to reach the College Football Playoff in Lincoln Riley’s fifth season, but said the Trojans need to finish 10-2.
“10-2 is gonna make the College Football Playoff. 9-3 is not,” Leinart said.
USC enters 2026 No. 14 in both preseason polls after a 9-4 season. Leinart cited Oregon, Ohio State and defending national champion Indiana as major tests. Oregon visits USC on Sept. 26; the Trojans travel to Penn State on Oct. 10 and Wisconsin on Oct. 24.
Leinart made the comments in support of a Big Ten-Abbott blood-donation campaign and urged USC fans to participate more. “My school needs to step up,” he said.