This fall, USC football will step into the national spotlight a week early, hosting San Jose State on August 29 in what's known as "Week Zero." While most of the country is still in preseason mode, the Trojans will be kicking off their season, offering fans an early taste of game-day action and a chance to break in their new gear.

However, this unique early start might soon become a relic of the past. A significant proposal from the NCAA’s Football Oversight Committee could reshape the college football calendar starting in 2027. The plan would move the official start of the season up by one week, effectively absorbing Week Zero into a new, expanded Week 1.

The change is designed to create a more flexible and player-friendly schedule. Under the proposed model, the regular season would still conclude the Saturday after Thanksgiving, but teams would have 14 weeks to play their 12 games. This grants every program two valuable bye weeks during the season, providing crucial rest and recovery time—a major win for player safety and team management.

This structural shift isn't just about regular-season logistics; it's a forward-thinking move for the postseason. The added flexibility is seen as essential for the anticipated expansion of the College Football Playoff, ensuring the calendar can accommodate a larger tournament. The model also aims to preserve dedicated weekends for conference championship games and traditional rivalries like the Army-Navy showdown.

While the proposal makes practical sense, its adoption remains to be seen. For now, USC's 2024 Week Zero game is a special occasion. It’s a prime-time opportunity for the Trojan faithful to showcase their spirit before the full frenzy of the season begins. So, mark your calendar for August 29—it might be your last chance to experience a true Week Zero kickoff.