USC’s Talent Impresses Ohio State Coach Ryan Day, Who Delivers Evaluation of Trojans’ Recruiting
Day sees a major challenge
USC and No. 2 Ohio State meet Saturday night at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, their first matchup since both became Big Ten members. The Trojans enter after a 24-7 loss at Wisconsin, but Day said he expects a difficult test.
“This is as talented a team as I’ve seen on film,” Day said. He added that Ohio State would need its best effort against USC.
Quarterback plans remain open
Ohio State is preparing to start a new quarterback after Julian Sayin suffered a right shoulder injury. The Buckeyes had a bye week after beating No. 4 Indiana 19-15, and backups Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair have competed for the job.
Day said using both quarterbacks was possible, though the circumstances would determine whether that happens. Fahey and St. Clair were described as highly touted recruits.
Recruiting adds another contest
USC is ranked No. 1 in the 2026 recruiting cycle, with Ohio State at No. 4, according to 247Sports. The programs have also competed for sought-after recruits despite their first meeting as Big Ten opponents coming this weekend.
Day praised USC coach Lincoln Riley and his staff for their recruiting work, citing the Trojans’ speed and size. He said Ohio State’s players understand the quality of the team they will face.
Kickoff, odds and series history
USC is a 6.5-point underdog, according to the latest DraftKings Sportsbook odds. The Trojans are 2-6 against the spread this season, covering in wins over Fresno State and Penn State.
Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. PT on Saturday, with NBC broadcasting the game. USC leads the all-time series 13-10-1; Ohio State won their most recent meeting, the 2017 Cotton Bowl, 24-7.
Key points
- Ryan Day praised USC’s talent ahead of Saturday’s game at the Coliseum.
- Ohio State could use both Luke Fahey and Tavien St. Clair at quarterback.
- USC is 6-2 overall and 3-2 in the Big Ten.
- The Trojans lead the all-time series 13-10-1.