The USC Trojans found themselves a focal point of discussion during Week 0 of the college football season, not primarily due to their on-field performance, but because of the crowd turnout at their home opener.
While the Trojans secured a decisive 42-26 victory over San Jose State, the noticeably sparse attendance at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for kickoff drew widespread commentary across social media platforms. This prompted observers to closely watch the subsequent home game to see if the team could attract a larger crowd, more aligned with a prominent program ranked 14th nationally.
Early Season Attendance Trends
The Trojans' next home contest pitted them against the Fresno State Bulldogs on a Friday night. Despite facing a formidable opponent from the Pac-12 conference, initial expectations for a sellout crowd were tempered; a major rivalry game would typically draw peak attendance, but the hope was for improved numbers compared to the season opener.
However, the scene at kickoff for the Fresno State game presented a familiar picture, with numerous empty red seats visible. While perhaps not as stark as the Week 0 turnout, the initial sparse appearance still raised questions about immediate fan engagement.
Factors Influencing Game Day Turnout
Several factors may have contributed to the initial low numbers at kickoff. The game took place on a Friday evening preceding a holiday weekend, a period often associated with travel plans for many. Furthermore, navigating the significant traffic congestion common in Los Angeles could deter early arrivals to the stadium.
Beyond logistical challenges, Los Angeles is also recognized for a cultural tendency where arriving fashionably late to events is not uncommon. This characteristic appeared to play a role, as by the second quarter of the game, the stadium had substantially filled, presenting a much more robust attendance figure for a non-conference Week 1 matchup.
Looking ahead, the team's first home game against a Big Ten opponent is scheduled for September 26, when they are set to host the Oregon Ducks.