Luke Perez

Joined: May 13, 2026

Luke A. Perez is a writer for USC Trojans On SI. Luke started his sports career as a recreational flag and tackle football coach. He continues his passion for coaching as a Youth Engagement Coach for the Los Angeles Rams where he serves the L.A. community. At Azusa Pacific University, where Luke received his BA in Journalism, he worked as the News Section Editor for the student-run media outlet. Shortly after graduating, Luke joined 247Sports as a Trending Sports Writer. Luke became a high school sports contributor for Southern California News Group to cover football in the San Gabriel Valley. When Luke isn't watching football or combat sports, he's at the movies, checking out new cafes, catching up on books, or enjoying a run at the beach.

Sep 26, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley walks off the field after the game against the Oregon Ducks at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

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Junior defensive lineman Jide Abasiri opens up on No. 12 USC Trojans' defense missing Jahkeem Stewart and how they're looking to contain No. 20 Oregon Ducks' offense.

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Cornerback Jontez Williams believes that No. 12 USC Trojans’ defense will get back on track in their top-25 matchup versus the No. 20 Oregon Ducks in Week 4 (Sept. 26).

Sep 4, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans defensive coordinator Gary Patterson during the game against the Fresno State Bulldogs at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

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Safety Prophet Brown reflects on film room sessions and reveals the moment he saw the opportunity for an interception in No. 12 USC Trojans' narrow Week 3 victory.

Oregon head coach Dan Lanning, left, and USC head coach Lincoln Riley shake hands before the game as the Oregon Ducks host the USC Trojans on Nov. 22, 2025, at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.

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After a narrow escape in Week 3, No. 12 USC Trojans will be back at home in Week 4 and host longtime rival No. 21 Oregon Ducks (Sept. 26).

Sep 4, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava (14) leaves the field after the first half against the Fresno State Bulldogs at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

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Despite a shaky offensive performance and inconsistent play from quarterback Jayden Maiava, No. 12 USC Trojans survive the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 42-35.

Sep 19, 2026; Piscataway, New Jersey, USA; USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley on the field during warm ups before the game against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at SHI Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

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No. 12 USC Trojans open up conference play with a win, but who gained or lost footing in the win?

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No. 12 USC Trojans will be entering conference play in Week 3. With less experimentation with rotations and lineups, these players need to capitalize the moment for a bigger role.

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Senior safety Christian Pierce believes the No. 12 USC Trojans defense can bounce back from Week 2 performance and neutralize Rutgers' star receiver.

USC Trojans freshman tight end Mark Bowman

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No. 12 USC Trojans' offense has been spearheaded by three true freshmen, in particular tight end Mark Bowman who had a breakout game in Week 2.

Jul 28, 2026; Chicago, IL, USA; USC student-athlete Jayden Maiava speaks during Media Days at Hilton Chicago. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

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No. 12 USC Trojans' quarterback Jayden Maiava is still not satisfied after a career-high performance and is setting his attention to the first Big Ten game of the season.

Aug 29, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans offensive lineman Elijah Paige (72) reacts during the game against the San Jose State Spartans at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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The No. 12 USC Trojans will be relying on veterans like offensive lineman Elijah Paige for their first road game and conference game of the season against Rutgers.

Sep 12, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley reacts after the game against the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns atUnited Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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The No. 12 USC Trojans will have their first road and conference game in Week 3 (Sept. 19) against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.

Luke Perez

Joined: May 13, 2026

Betting Odds for Paint the Picture for USC's Bounce-Back Game vs. Washington

USC Quarterback Jayden Maiava Shares Thoughts on Dante Moore's Injury

Six Winners and Losers From USC’s Devastating Loss to Oregon

Three USC Trojans Need Bigger Roles vs. Oregon to Avoid Transfer Portal Questions

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USC's Jide Abasiri Speaks Candidly on Impact of Jahkeem Stewart's Injury

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USC Cornerback Jontez Williams Clarifies Injury Status

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USC Safety Prophet Brown Provides Rare Insight on Game-Changing Play to Beat Rutgers

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Updated USC vs. Oregon Betting Odds Highlight Dramatic Shift Since Preseason

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Jayden Maiava’s Few Words Say Plenty About USC’s Offensive Performance

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Five Biggest Winners and Losers From USC’s Win Over Rutgers

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Which USC Trojans Need Bigger Roles in Week 3 to Avoid Transfer Portal Questions

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USC Safety Christian Pierce Shares Honest Opinion on Trojans Defense

USC Freshman Mark Bowman Fuels Rise With Latest Offensive Grade

USC Quarterback Jayden Maiava Offers Honest Response to Injury Concerns

Elijah Paige Gives Honest Review of USC's Offensive Line Play

USC Trojans' Interesting Betting Odds Released for First Big Ten Game