The University of Southern California (USC) kicked off its 2026 college football season with a solid 42-26 victory over San Jose State at the iconic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. This win not only marked the Trojans' first game of the year but also set the stage for what they hope will be a successful season ahead.
In a notable achievement, USC quarterback Jayden Maiava was recognized as the Associated Press National Player of the Week for Week 0 of the college football season. This accolade is particularly significant as Maiava is the first player to receive this honor in the current season, highlighting his impressive performance during the season opener.
Maiava's performance was nothing short of remarkable, especially considering he played just three quarters of the game. He completed 25 of 29 passes, amassing 286 yards and throwing two touchdown passes, while also contributing a rushing touchdown. His accuracy and decision-making on the field were key factors in the Trojans' success against San Jose State.
After practice on Tuesday, Maiava expressed his thoughts on his performance, stating, "I think there's a lot of room for me to stay patient as well as a quarterback. Just continue making the right winning-decision plays and getting the ball in the playmaker's hands." His focus on improvement and teamwork reflects the leadership qualities expected of a senior quarterback.
While it is worth noting that fewer teams participated in Week 0 compared to a typical week, Maiava's performance still stood out in the college football landscape, showcasing his potential to lead the Trojans this season. The recognition from the Associated Press serves as a confidence booster for Maiava as he navigates the challenges of being a starting quarterback.
Looking ahead, Maiava and the Trojans will face off against Fresno State on Friday at the Coliseum, with kickoff scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Pacific time. This matchup will provide another opportunity for Maiava to build on his early-season success and further establish himself as a key player for USC in the 2026 season.
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