Future in USC QB room looks spectacular following second half from young talent

Coach Lincoln Riley has made it clear that Jayden Maiava is QB1 for USC. By the time the Trojans exited the locker room coming out of half, however, the head coach had seen enough from the starters. Coach Riley gave the backups and third string ample opportunity to get in on the action and contribute to the win over Missouri State.

True freshman Husan Longstreet took over for Maiava after two quarters and kept the scoring going for the Trojans. An aspect that immediately stood out was Longstreet's ability to use his legs. In something that the coaching staff likely collectively held their breath for, the freshman also showed a willingness to initiate contact and fight for extra yards.

Most likely, the Trojan staff will look to have Longstreet be far more selective about when to use this ability. Still, it is good to see that Longstreet is unafraid of the moment and is willing to dish out punishment himself.

Adding the mobile quarterback element to coach Riley's offense makes it so that the defense will have an additional dynamic element to deal with. When looking at the running back room and talent that will be joining Troy in the upcoming recruiting classes, it is a highly encouraging thought to think of Longstreet's added dimension that he brings and the possibilities that would exist for when he does take over from Maiava eventually.

Tons to look forward to from USC freshman

Longstreet is going to have an excellent Trojan career. He entered the game against Missouri State and did exactly what fans would hope to see of him as a freshman.

Like any other freshman, Longstreet has areas that he will need to improve in for when he is the Trojans' starting quarterback. When taking his work ethic and talent into account, it is clear that the future is going to be exceedingly bright for the USC QB room.