USC coach Lincoln Riley opens up possibility of seeing Husan Longstreet play a role

The main reason as to why there is a degree of apprehension among USC fans is due to the unknown of what the Trojans will get from the quarterback position this year. While Jayden Maiava is the opening starter to the year, many would happily welcome the sight of Husan Longstreet as the day one starter.

Speaking during the Big Ten Media Days and as shared by The Trojan Blade on X, coach Lincoln Riley opened up the possibility of some of those Trojan fans receiving their wish.

While not saying in what role or necessarily putting a percentage on the likelihood of Longstreet's stepping foot on the field for significant snaps, there does appear to be a chance of this happening.

Anymore, it is difficult to ask anyone to sit due to the role of the transfer portal. With that in mind, it is entirely possible that coach Riley is simply trying to encourage his freshman QB and make it so that Longstreet feels like a strong part of the roster and team's plans.

By the same token, coach Riley is also letting Maiava and really all Trojan members know that there is not truthfully anything in terms of 'job security.' Regardless of where someone is entering the year, there will always be a chance of seeing someone notable being benched.

Important factors to play out at USC

He knows that a lot is on the line in 2025. If someone is not performing up to the needed standard, then coach Riley will be forced to turn to the second option at any position.

For Maiava, there is a great opportunity to play well and enhance his stock at USC. If, however, the mistakes begin to pile up, then coach Riley has made it clear that he will not hesitate to go with Longstreet.