USC Trojans Aim for Playoff Spot with Key Match Against Iowa

LOS ANGELES, California — The No. 17 USC Trojans are determined to secure their first College Football Playoff berth under head coach Lincoln Riley. With a solid 7-2 record this season, they have made a notable turnaround after a 7-6 finish last year in the Big Ten.

Star wide receiver Makai Lemon has been a significant contributor to USC’s success this season. In his third year with the Trojans, Lemon leads the Big Ten with 61 receptions, accumulating 937 yards and seven touchdowns. His performance positions him among the top wide receivers in college football, generating buzz about his potential first-round pick status in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.

In a commanding 38-17 victory over Northwestern, Lemon showcased his skills, recording a season-high 11 receptions for 161 yards and one touchdown. This performance was crucial as he had struggled in previous games against ranked opponents. The Trojans face their next challenge this Saturday against No. 21 Iowa Hawkeyes at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

The game against Iowa is pivotal for USC’s playoff aspirations. With only two losses this season, the Trojans are looking to maintain their winning streak, particularly with tough games ahead, including a pivotal matchup against No. 8 Oregon next week.

Trojan fans understand the stakes, especially after a second loss to Notre Dame. USC aims to secure a win against the Hawkeyes, which would further solidify their postseason chances. To do this, they need to pressure Iowa quarterback Mark Gronowski, who has more rushing touchdowns compared to passing touchdowns this season.

The Trojans enter this matchup with an undefeated record at home. Analyst Joel Klatt highlights the importance of USC’s run defense, which has struggled in recent games. He notes, “The Iowa defense is specifically suited to take a team like USC and frustrate them.”

However, linebacker Desman Stephens II remains optimistic, stating that the Trojans excel in games that require a strong defensive presence. “As backers, we always love a game where we can get in the box and get dirty. So, I mean, it’s a linebacker’s dream,” he said.

The USC Trojans take the field against the Iowa Hawkeyes on Saturday, November 15, at 12:30 p.m. PT, with the game broadcast on the Big Ten Network.