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Big Ten coach questions Jayden Maiava's fit with Lincoln Riley at USC

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 12:08 AM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Big Ten coach questions Jayden Maiava's fit with Lincoln Riley at USC

Summary

As the USC Trojans prepare for the 2026 season, expectations are high following a 9–4 finish in 2025. Quarterback Jayden Maiava returns after a solid year, but a Big Ten coach has raised concerns about his fit with head coach Lincoln Riley. The coach emphasized the need for Riley to adapt his style to allow Maiava to thrive, especially after Maiava struggled with interceptions late in the past season. The Trojans will face tough competition, including Oregon and Ohio State at home. Maiava has a chance to improve his game and bolster USC's position in the Big Ten this year.

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By the Numbers

•USC finished 2025 with a 9–4 record and 7–2 in Big Ten play.
•Jayden Maiava returns after throwing for 3,711 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2025.
•A Big Ten coach expressed doubts about Maiava fitting into Riley's offensive system.
•Maiava is compared to former USC quarterback Caleb Williams in skill potential.
•USC's 2026 schedule includes home games against Oregon, Washington, and Ohio State.

Latest Updates

12:08 AMYahoo Sports — Big Ten Coach Questions Jayden Maiava-Lincoln Riley Fit With USC Trojans

What they're saying

"
As the USC Trojans get ready to start the 2026 season, the program has some big expectations on its shoulders.USC finished the 2025 season with a record of 9–4, going 7-2 in Big Ten play. The Trojans were one of the more fascinating teams in college football a year ago, and many people view them […] The post Big Ten Coach Questions Jayden Maiava-Lincoln Riley Fit With USC Trojans appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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