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By Sam Garcia
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USC quarterback Jayden Maiava has a big season ahead of him.
After deciding not to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft, this season will be Maiava's chance to increase his draft stock and lead the Trojans to their first College Football Playoffs.
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Maiava Impressed Big Ten Coaches Last Season
As a junior at USC last season, Maiava was one of the best quarterbacks in the Big Ten. Going into his senior season in the conference, multiple Big Ten coaches have praised Maiava's abilities.
One Big Ten coach compared Maiava to former USC quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. Williams became the Trojans' nation-leading eighth Heisman Trophy winner in program history in 2022.
"He has the ability to be a better runner than [head coach Lincoln Riley's] had," a Big Ten coach told ESPN's Adam Rittenberg. "He reminds me of Caleb [Williams] in some ways. He's a good passer, he can run, he can throw, he's accurate and I felt like he was pretty poised back there. Guys were teeing off on him, he got hit and came back and stood back up in the pocket and kept making plays. He definitely can do that."
A Big Ten defensive coordinator highlighted Maiava's composure on the field as one of his strengths.
"He did a really good job of managing the game, showed composure," a Big Ten defensive coordinator said. "He threw the ball really well. He's got that stature about him."
Maiava and the Trojans will open the 2026 season against San Jose State on Aug. 29 at the LA Memorial Coliseum.
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