Game Day at USC: Tips, Traditions and Ultimate Fun for Trojans Football

Game day at USC is a thrilling experience, steeped in rich traditions and an electric atmosphere that captivates fans from kickoff to the final whistle. From the iconic Trojan Marching Band’s powerful performances to the passionate chants of “Fight On!” echoing through the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, every moment is charged with school spirit. This guide will help you soak in every bit of excitement that USC Trojans football has to offer.

Tailgating with the Trojans

All tailgating events start no earlier than six hours prior to kickoff on the USC campus. If you plan to host your own tailgate, you must register for a permit. Other tailgates that occur on game day include the family friendly Trojan Family Game Day Experience in Alumni Park, the Modelo Ultimate Tailgate on Christmas Tree Lane, Tommy’s Tavern (for Trojan Athletic Fund members only) and the REVELxp premium tailgating experience.

Come decked out in your best cardinal and gold and get ready for a day of festivities. Most tailgate locations are a short walk away from some of Los Angeles’ best food and beverage establishments: Harold & Belle’s, Baba’s Vegan Cafe, or Tacos Los Güichos, to name a few. There are also plenty of liquor stores close to campus, as well as local breweries such as Highland Park, Boomtown or Party Beer Co.

The Trojan Walk

The Trojan Walk is one of USC’s most iconic and beloved traditions. Occurring 2 hours and 45 minutes prior to kickoff, the Trojan Walk gives fans the opportunity to cheer on the players as they walk from their team buses off Figueroa Boulevard and to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Since the event is undeniably one of the most popular pre-game activities, fans are encouraged to arrive early for the walk to get a good viewing spot to welcome the team. Be prepared to cheer the team on and give out an abundance of high fives!

USC Trojan Band and Spirit Events

The game itself isn’t the only form of entertainment to be found on a game day at USC. The USC Trojan Marching Band, known as “The Spirit of Troy,” is an iconic and integral part the USC game day experience. The band plays a central role in rallying fans and inspiring the Trojan football team. Known for its renditions of fight songs — including”Fight On,” “Tribute to Troy” and “Conquest!” — the band is a key driver of the electric atmosphere at USC events. Complementing the band’s efforts are the USC Song Girls and Spirit Leaders, who lead cheers and engage with the crowd, further amplifying the excitement.

Game Day Essentials for an Unforgettable Experience

USC game days are as long as they are eventful, so be sure to come prepared for the day of festivities. Make sure you have your tickets, parking passes and ID secured before arrival. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun are all key items to remember if the day’s forecast is clear and sunny, which is commonly the case in Los Angeles. USC’s signature school colors are cardinal and gold, so don’t forget to show some school spirit by bringing your USC-themed attire and accessories! Read more about the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum’s policies to make sure you know what you can and cannot bring to a USC game.

Inside the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum

The USC Trojans have had a home at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum since 1923.  The venue has also played host to two Super Bowls, the 1959 World Series, a Papal Mass, visits from three U.S. Presidents and scores of additional sporting and social events — including the Olympics. The Coliseum was designated a National Historic Landmark on July 27, 1984, a day before the opening ceremony of the 1984 Summer Olympics. As a living memorial to all who served in the U.S. Armed Forces during World War I, the Coliseum has become an integral part of Los Angeles’ identity as a city. Learn more about the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

Cheering and Chanting for the USC Trojans

On game days, the stadium thunders with thousands of fans excitedly cheering for the Trojans on the field. At half time, the USC Marching Band takes the field to play fan-favorite covers. Several chants and traditions have helped create an electrifying atmosphere for fans to enjoy.

“Fight On!”

This is the most iconic USC chant. The words “Fight On” are chanted loudly by fans, especially during crucial moments in the game. The words are part of the official fight song, which is: “Fight On for ol’ SC / Our men Fight On to victory. / Our Alma Mater dear, looks up to you / Fight On and win for ol’ SC / Fight On to victory. Fight On!”

“We Are SC!”

This is a simple yet powerful chant where one side of the stadium shouts “We Are!” and the other responds with “SC!”

“U-S-C!”

Fans chant the letters “U-S-C” repeatedly, often while clapping or raising their hands in rhythm.

“Tribute to Troy”

This is a fan favorite played by the USC Trojan Marching Band throughout the game.

“Conquest!”

This is another instrumental piece played by the Trojan Marching Band. It’s traditionally performed after a touchdown or big play.

“SoCal Spell Out”

During the game, the band leads a chant where they spell out “S-O-U-T-H-E-R-N C-A-L-I-F-O-R-N-I-A,” with the crowd shouting along.

“One More Year!”

This chant is typically directed at key players who might be considering entering the NFL Draft, encouraging them to stay at USC for another season.

“That’s another USC First Down!”

After a successful first down, the announcer will lead the chant, and fans enthusiastically repeat it, celebrating the team’s progress on the field.

USC Trojans Game Day Schedule

Football season is in full swing in the fall, with games occurring almost every week. To catch one of the Trojans’ home games, view the football schedule.