Washington enters the season with a revamped skill group after losing top receivers and running backs to the NFL and transfer portal. Four-star freshmen Jordan Clay, Mason James, and Trez Davis are expected to play major roles at wide receiver, while running back Brian Bonner Jr. will be part of a young rotation. The offensive line returns four starters, anchored by 5-star left tackle Kodi Greene, providing stability for quarterback Demond Williams Jr. to develop chemistry with his new targets.

The Huskies' defensive line has been completely rebuilt with junior Elinneus Davis, 4-star freshman Derek Colman-Brusa, and transfers DeSean Watts, Darin Conley, and Kai McClendon. This group is expected to be stout against the run and effective at rushing the passer, which will be critical against Washington State's offense. The linebacking corps, led by seniors Jacob Manu and Xe'ree Alexander, is one of the nation's best and should help mask any early-season growing pains up front.

Washington addressed key special teams weaknesses by adding kicker Tyler Robles (91.3% field goal percentage at Texas State) and punter Hunter Green (47.0 yards per punt, 6th nationally). These upgrades could be decisive in a close rivalry game, especially if the offense takes time to gel early in the season.

After a brief transfer portal flirtation, Williams returns as the starter with a year of experience in Jedd Fisch's system. He struggled in big moments last season, but the coaching staff expects him to take a step forward. His ability to lead the young receiving corps and make plays under pressure will be key against a Washington State team that will likely test him early.

The Apple Cup is played at home for Washington, where they have a venue HFA of 2.7. The forecast calls for clear skies and 34°F, which could favor the Huskies' running game and defense. With a young offense, the home crowd and cold weather may help slow down Washington State's tempo and give Washington an edge in a typically intense rivalry matchup.

USC returns all five starters on the offensive line, a group that Lincoln Riley believes can be the most dominant he's had. The running back tandem of Waymond Jordan and King Miller averaged 6.3 yards per carry last season. Against Fresno State's rebuilt front, USC should be able to establish the run and control the game tempo, especially with a home-field advantage of 2.2 points.

Jayden Maiava returns as an elite quarterback (second in QBR last season), but his top three targets from 2025 are gone. The new group includes Tanook Hines, NC State transfer Terrell Anderson, and freshman Boobie Feaster. Early-season chemistry will be critical; expect some growing pains but also explosive plays as Maiava builds rapport.

New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson inherits a deeper defensive line with transfers like Zuriah Fisher (Penn State) and freshmen like Jahkeem Stewart. The secondary returns Marcelles Williams and adds Jontez Williams (Iowa State). Fresno State's offense is unproven, giving USC's defense a chance to set the tone and generate pressure.

USC has a new special teams coordinator (Mike Ekeler) and a new punter (Lachlan Carrigan). Kicker Ryon Sayeri is a reliable weapon, but the return game loses Makai Lemon. Hines, Mosley, and others will need to step up. Field position could be a factor in a game where USC is heavily favored.

USC plays at home with zero travel miles and a 2.2-point home-field advantage. The forecast is cloudy and 60°F with light wind, ideal conditions for Maiava's passing attack. Fresno State must travel and adjust to the environment, giving USC a clear situational edge.