USC Names Jayden Maiava Starting Quarterback for 2024 Season

Jayden Maiava, USC's redshirt junior quarterback, has emerged as a vocal leader and starter for the Trojans in the 2025 season under coach Lincoln Riley, who praises Maiava's growth, leadership, and arm talent. After transferring from UNLV and initially serving as a backup, Maiava took over the starting role late last season, showing resilience despite some turnovers and mixed performances, including a key Las Vegas Bowl victory. Riley and offensive coordinator Luke Huard emphasize Maiava's increasing confidence, knowledge, and command of the offense, with Riley highlighting his unique decisiveness and toughness. Maiava's development is also supported by a strong quarterback room that includes highly-touted recruit Husan Longstreet and experienced redshirt senior Sam Huard, providing depth and competition. Critics have noted Maiava's challenges in stepping in mid-season and the difficulty of building chemistry, but the full offseason to prepare as the starter has been seen as crucial to his improvement and readiness for a successful 2025 campaign. Many believe that with Riley's mentorship and Maiava's maturing leadership, the Trojans' quarterback situation is strong and poised for continued success, potentially positioning Maiava for an NFL draft opportunity after the season.