College football season began this weekend. Thousands of USC fans apparently didn’t get the memo.
Images from the Trojans’ home opener showed barely enough people in the stands to fit inside a wooden horse.
It was bad enough to prompt USC to issue a statement regarding the substandard showing.
“We understand the factors that impacted Saturday’s attendance,” USC said, via Jordan Mendoza of USA Today. “We have high expectations and a premier home schedule this season, and we know the competitive advantage an electric Coliseum atmosphere can provide our program. We thank our fans who showed up Saturday and look forward to seeing increased attendance the rest of the season.”
The announced attendance was 51,144, the lowest of coach Lincoln Riley’s time with the team. And it looked like a lot fewer fans than that.
In the defense of those who opted to stay home, it was hot. Very hot. The temperature was 94 degrees, with a “real feel” temperature of 104. The Coliseum has little or no shade.
It likely was an aberration. But it was still a tough look, especially in such an iconic venue. The Coliseum has hosted multiple Super Bowls. It’s been the home stadium of the Raiders, the Rams, and (in 1960) the Chargers.
On Saturday, it looked like the crowd for a spring game. Or for a sport other than football.
The first opportunity for redemption comes on Friday night, when Fresno State comes to town.