Lincoln Riley Gets Real About Jayden Maiava's Growth at USC

Now in the midst of spring practice, Maiava’s leadership for the Trojans has continued to grow and has gotten the attention of USC coach Lincoln Riley. Here’s what Riley had to say about Maiava’s leadership growth in spring practice, as the Trojans continue to gear up for a pivotal 2026 season.  

What Lincoln Riley Said  

On Jayden Maiava’s Leadership:

“Overall, he’s just had a fantastic spring. He’s just been much better than he has been in any practice period that we’ve had. His comfort level, combined with having to do it with a lot of new skill guys. Pretty much everybody but King [Miller], he hasn’t played with. To be able to come out and produce and be consistent like he’s been the entire spring. Hasn’t had bad days. He’s taken care of the ball. He’s commanded. I think his confidence in leading,” Riley said. 

“I think also knowing that some of these other guys that were leaders are gone, and the team and the offense are looking at him to be a leader and to have that presence. It’s growing just like his game is, like it’s right in sync with his game. It’s just more confidence and more personality, more swagger, more attitude, and our guys feed off that when he does, and he’s been like that all spring,” Riley continued.

Maiava Looks To Guide USC Through Difficult 2026 Schedule

For the Trojans to accomplish their goal of making the CFP, Maiava will have to play at his best at quarterback for the Trojans. Cutting down on turnovers in the Trojans marquee matchups both at home and away from the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is the key.

After losing three road games last season against the Illinois Fighting Illini, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and Oregon Ducks, USC is set for tests against the Penn State Nittany Lions and defending national champions, the Indiana Hoosiers, on its 2026 away schedule. 

USC will also play host to the Oregon Ducks and Ohio State Buckeyes at the Coliseum, two games that could decide the Big Ten title race and which teams from the conference earn a spot in the CFP.  

After four years of coming up short of making the CFP with Riley, Trojan fans are desperate for 2026 to be the year that USC finally gets over the hump. Maiava looks to be the reason why next season is a memorable one for USC’s passionate fanbase.

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