USC Football Undefeated With Key QB Jayden Maiava, Coach Lincoln Riley Highlights Progress

The USC Trojans have started their 2025 football season strong, largely due to the impressive performances of their running backs Eli Sanders and Waymond Jordan, who have combined for 693 yards and six touchdowns. Quarterback Jayden Maiava has shown significant improvement from the previous year, leading the team with a 4-0 record, a 70.8% completion rate, 1,223 passing yards, nine passing touchdowns, and four rushing touchdowns without any interceptions. Head coach Lincoln Riley has praised Maiava's growth, emphasizing his humility, coachability, and steady leadership as key to the team's success and has urged him to maintain his current level of play as the team faces tougher competition ahead. Riley also highlighted the strong synergy between Sanders and Jordan, noting their unselfish approach and brotherly bond which positively impacts the entire team. Despite their early success and Maiava's standout play, USC has yet to face a top-tier pass defense, and the upcoming games against ranked opponents will be critical for their College Football Playoff aspirations. The coaching staff and fans have recognized the development and potential of Maiava and the running back duo as central to USC's promising season trajectory.