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USC's Empty Seats Show Fans Still Aren't Sold on Lincoln Riley's Hype for 2026
USC said extreme heat, a noon kickoff and San Jose State’s appeal helped drive the Coliseum’s lowest announced attendance since 2018.
- On Saturday, the Southern California Trojans defeated the San Jose State Spartans 42-26 at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, though the season-opening victory was overshadowed by an announced attendance of 51,144, the lowest figure under head coach Lincoln Riley.
- A noon kickoff during a Southern California heatwave, with temperatures reaching 94 degrees and a real feel of 104 degrees, combined with San Jose State's lack of marquee status to deter fans from attending.
- Despite $9 tickets, social media images revealed vast empty sections throughout the 77,500-seat Coliseum, with critics questioning whether the program could engage fans despite its blue-blood status and resources.
- On Sunday, USC issued a statement acknowledging the low turnout and reiterating "high expectations" for home crowds, expressing confidence that the Coliseum will feature a better atmosphere throughout the remainder of the season.
- The program faces a critical test against second-ranked Oregon on Sept. 26, when Riley must deliver results to sustain fan interest in a crowded Los Angeles sports market increasingly skeptical of the Trojans' relevance.
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Sad! – USC Football Was Bullied Into Releasing a Public Statement Addressing Poor Attendance at Their Home Opener vs San Jose State
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'It's an absolute disgrace': Dave Portnoy reacts to USC home opener
Sep 21, 2024; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; USC Trojans helmet on the sideline during the game against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn ImagesSaturday, the University of Southern California Trojans held their home opener against San Jose State, defeating the Spartans 42-26. The start of college football means the start of back-to-school, the start of the real college experience, and a chance for stu…
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Total News Sources19
Leaning Left3Leaning Right2Center10Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Center
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
67% Center
L 20%
C 67%
13%
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