USC Freshmen Shine in Scrimmage at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

Young pass catchers and defensive players impress in Trojans' spring practice session.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:50pm

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USC wrapped up its third week of spring practice with a scrimmage inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. With no spring game again this year, Saturday's session served as one of the most important days of the spring for the Trojans. Several young players, including freshman tight end Mark Bowman, receiver Trent Mosley, and safety Madden Riordan, stood out with impressive performances.

Why it matters

The scrimmage provided an opportunity for USC's new crop of young talent to showcase their skills as the team prepares for the upcoming season. With several key offensive weapons from last year's team now gone, the emergence of these freshmen pass catchers is crucial for the Trojans' success. On defense, Riordan's strong play could help solidify the safety position, which has been a question mark due to a lack of experience.

The details

Five-star tight end Mark Bowman, from nearby Mater Dei High School, has been as good as advertised and was referred to as someone who 'won the day' on Saturday. Freshman receiver Trent Mosley, fresh off a state championship run with Santa Margarita High, continued to impress and has a skill set similar to former Trojan Makai Lemon. Another freshman receiver, Tron Baker from Sierra Canyon High, also had a big day, catching an 'electrifying' touchdown. On defense, three-star safety Madden Riordan, who has been running with the first team due to injuries, stood out with an interception, playing much bigger than his 170-pound frame.

  • USC wrapped up its third week of spring practice on Saturday, March 29, 2026.
  • The scrimmage took place inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

The players

Mark Bowman

A five-star tight end from Mater Dei High School who has been highly impressive in spring practice and is expected to be a day one starter for the Trojans.

Trent Mosley

A freshman receiver from Santa Margarita High School who has continued to excel in spring practice, with a skill set similar to former Trojan Makai Lemon.

Tron Baker

A freshman receiver from Sierra Canyon High School who had another big day in the scrimmage, catching an 'electrifying' touchdown.

Madden Riordan

A three-star freshman safety from Sierra Canyon High School who has been running with the first team due to injuries and has stood out with his play, including an interception in the scrimmage.

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans, who is in his third year leading the program.

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The takeaway

The strong performances by USC's talented freshmen pass catchers and defensive players during the spring scrimmage suggest the Trojans have a promising crop of young talent that could help fill the void left by key departures from last season's team. These players will be crucial to USC's success as they look to build on their progress in the upcoming season.