USC needs Jayden Maiava to embrace the challenge of being the Trojans' QB1

It will often be said that pressure is a privilege. There are not too many people under more duress this season than USC quarterback Jayden Maiava. Last season, Maiava stepped in as the starter, replacing Miller Moss and going 3-1 as the Trojans' QB1.

Even in the loss, it came against the national runner-ups in Notre Dame and was a game that could have gone either way down the stretch.

Turnovers will doom any team and offense. This is an area that he will look to clean up. Playing better disciplined football will allow for the Trojans to reach their full potential and have a legitimate chance of making a push for the College Football Playoffs.

On the other hand, if turnovers become a featured part of games, it remains to be seen how far coach Lincoln Riley would potentially go before turning to Husan Longstreet.

With this in mind, USC quarterback Cody Kessler shared on The Victory Podcast with Keely Eure what he views as the needed approach as the Trojan QB.

According to Kessler, the amount of anticipation and build-up as a starter for USC can be a lot. Being the offensive leader for the biggest brand in the sport does put a lot of weight on someone's shoulders. For Kessler, this is something that Maiava needs to own.

Needed from USC quarterback

Embracing the challenge and not shying away or backing down are elements that are absolutely critical for USC to find success in 2025.

There is a difference between someone being afraid of the moment, playing it safe, and then acting and operating full of confidence.

This upcoming season will determine a lot for Maiava and the program as a whole. If USC sees the version and approach from Maiava that Kessler is speaking of, the Trojans will be in for a great 2025.