USC football‘s most consequential game of 2026 is the Oregon game. ESPN looked at the tight end who will challenge USC‘s defense: Kendre’ Harrison.
“Oregon lost a key player at tight end in Kenyon Sadiq, who was selected No. 16 in the NFL draft. Though returning tight end Jamari Johnson provides stability after tallying 510 receiving yards and three touchdowns in 2025, Oregon also added the five-star Harrison, the No. 15 overall player in the 2026 recruiting class. Harrison, a two-sport star, gives the Ducks another high-upside and highly athletic option at a position of need entering the season.
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“A dual-sport athlete and ranked basketball prospect, Harrison brings a rare blend of size and athleticism. Even as an early enrollee, he stood out physically at Oregon’s spring game. On tape, he is a long strider who is deceptively fast for his size. He can high point the football effectively and create production after the catch. Though still developing and needing to adjust to the physicality of the college level, he projects as a major red zone option who can box out defenders on jump balls as if he is back on the hardwood.”
USC’s defense has been outflanked when it has played Oregon in recent years. The Trojans have not been able to hold the Ducks under 30 points. If USC can hit that benchmark, the Trojans would have a significantly better chance of winning a game they frankly cannot afford to lose. If USC wants to take a significant step forward as a program, it must beat Oregon. Beating Oregon includes containing Kendre’ Harrison when these teams clash.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Oregon football’s Kendre Harrison will force USC to be airtight on D
