Full offseason with USC HC Lincoln Riley will be needed difference for Jayden Maiava

If there is anything that coach Lincoln Riley knows, it is how to coach up the quarterback position. Now heading into the season with Jayden Maiava as USC's starter, a lot of eyes will be on how the junior will perform and operate within the offensive system.

For some, the past mistakes of Maiava are too much to overlook. These opinions, however, are missing out on a critical factor. Coach Riley will now have spent months helping Maiava, knowing that he will be the most likely starter for the upcoming season. And if there is anyone who is a quarterback whisperer, it is coach Riley.

When looking at the track record that includes the likes of Caleb Williams, Baker Mayfield, and Kyler Murray, the blueprint is clearly there for Maiava to obtain the highest possible levels of success in Los Angeles.

Increased time together will only strengthen their relationship. That familiarity will only lead to a greater amount of confidence and familiarity in terms of how both coach Riley and Maiava read the game and look to attack the opposing defense.

Potential avenues for USC QB

From the end of last season, there are, of course, areas that will need to be improved. That gap is not, however, so drastic that there is a need to panic and pretend that the Trojans are approaching an impending doom scenario. A lot is going right in Troy. Maiava, too, is now a year older and has valuable experience in the system that will prove useful in 2025.

Giving coach Riley a full offseason with Maiava will yield the best possible results and scenario for Maiava. A good upcoming year will also see the junior able to declare for the NFL draft at the conclusion of this season. That is a possibility that is certainly possible at the starting quarterback for USC.

When looking across the landscape of college football, there are not too many situations that are better than that of USC at QB. Bet against coach Riley and Maiava at your own risk.