 1 ranked USC Trojans, bringing with them an 8–1 record, a ranking of No.16, and senior leadership and depth at key positions.The match up against USC turned out to be one for the ages as Fresno State quarterback Paul Pinegar continually drew against USC quarterback Matt Leinart, and Fresno State running backs Wendel Mathis and Bryson Sumlin exchanged touchdown runs with eventual Heisman Trophy winner Reggie Bush.