Todd McShay gives USC fans yet another reason to believe in Jayden Maiava

Jayden Maiava will be one of the most-watched quarterbacks in college this year. After throwing for 3,711 yards and 24 touchdowns in his first year as the Trojans' full-time starter last season, he could have opted in for the NFL draft. Instead, he stayed another year, potentially a sign that, even in a light 2026 quarterback class, the NFL had concerns. With all the question marks around him, Todd McShay gave fans a reason to be excited about this season.

Analyst Todd McShay shares insight on Jayden Maiava

On Todd McShay's podcast, he talked about what he was hearing about Jayden Maiava.

"Some people were really excited about the level of commitment that he's put in this offseason. And I really encourage that we might see a noticeably more advanced quarterback this year," McShay said. "I heard about what he's doing this offseason, and we should be prepared. It could be an even better version than what we saw last year."

He shared that the information didn't come from Maiava's camp or anyone who was trying to hype him up. Also, McShay talked about how he's been "really grinding" and is even traveling this offseason to get the best training.

McShay's comments will certainly get Trojan fans hyped. Last year, USC had a 9-4 record, an improvement from its 7-6 record the year before. As the team is getting used to the Big Ten football, Maiava has been growing as well.

Jayden Maiava will need to make a jump in year three

Maiava's numbers were solid last season, but there is still room for improvement. He's not the best quarterback when he's under pressure. In his defense, though, he had a lot of pressure last season from a shaky offensive line, as he was sacked 14 times.

His completion percentage dropped to 50.8% when he was pressured last season, revealing his biggest flaw. He often gets happy feet when pressured, leaving him off balance. When he doesn't do well under pressure, he forces throws that lead to interceptions. Last season, he had 10 interceptions, which was one less than his freshman year at UNLV. Still, he was able to make magic happen on some plays.

There is still a lot that Trojan fans should be excited about, though. He is clearly working hard this offseason, and he does have great strengths, like throwing deep balls. He led the FBS with his 37 completions on passes of 20 or more air yards.

Whether it's deep passes or short throws, he can get it off with precision. He is known for having a nice touch on throws and getting the ball out of his hands even through tight spots. The biggest adjustment for Maiava this season will be that he's not throwing to Biletnikoff winner Makai Lemon or Ja'Kobi Lane, two seasoned receivers. So, there could be some growing pains as he gets on the same page with a revamped receiver corps at the beginning of the season.

While Maiva has a huge upside, it's time for USC fans to witness it this season, especially because of who they're up against. The Trojans have to take on reigning national champions Indiana as well as Ohio State, Oregon and Penn State. It won't be an easy season, but if Maiava can hit new strides this year, he can improve on the Trojans' record from last year.

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