USC football plays defending national champion Indiana and 2024 national champion Ohio State this season. The Trojans face Oregon, Washington and Penn State, too. The schedule in the Big Ten is way too tough for USC to expect success from only its core returning players. USC will need newcomers such as tight end Mark Bowman to step up. ESPN has more:

"Need: Four of the Trojans' five leading receivers from 2025 left for either the NFL or the transfer portal, opening the door for Bowman to play as a true freshman. He'll benefit from having a veteran throwing to him in Maiava. Bowman is expected to be a day one starter in Lincoln Riley's offense and should be used creatively to fill voids given his rare size and pass-catching ability.

"Value: Bowman was the No. 2 H-back tight end in the 2026 class and he has a college-ready combination of size, fluidity and explosion. His suddenness and explosiveness allow him to separate from defenders in coverage and become a vertical threat with speed. Bowman has strong natural hands and consistently shows the ability to finish catches. Though he is a very good receiving tight end, he also plays with a great demeanor as a blocker."

Getting significant contributions from Mark Bowman will help Jayden Maiava and the rest of the USC offense to function more effectively, giving the Trojans a fighting chance in a stacked Big Ten. Bowman is a key piece to the puzzle in USC's attempt to make the College Football Playoff.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football newcomer Mark Bowman faces instant challenge in 2026