The 2026 season looms as a pivotal year for the USC Trojans, who are poised to translate a strong 2025 foundation into a legitimate College Football Playoff contender. Under head coach Lincoln Riley, the program has cultivated continuity on both sides of the ball, but it is the offense that promises the most immediate fireworks.
At the heart of that offense is quarterback Jayden Maiava, whose 2025 campaign featured 3,711 passing yards, 24 touchdowns and just 10 interceptions. Adding 157 rushing yards and six ground scores, Maiava offers a dual‑threat skill set that could keep defenses guessing and open up the field for the Trojans' playmakers.
The Offensive Line Returns Whole
A key ingredient of USC's offensive resurgence is the return of all five starters from the 2025 line. That continuity not only preserves chemistry but also reinforces a unit that allowed only 15 sacks last season, ranking 12th nationally. The line's stability is expected to give Maiava the pocket time needed to exploit the Trojans' deep receiving corps.
Running back King Miller emerged as a workhorse in 2025, logging 156 carries for 972 yards and eight touchdowns. Complementary back Waymond Jordan added 88 attempts for 576 yards and five scores before injury, and both are expected to be fully healthy for the upcoming campaign. Their ability to grind out yards will be crucial in controlling the tempo against Big Ten powerhouses.
Wide receiver Tanook Hines also figures prominently in the Trojans' plans. He recorded 34 receptions for 561 yards and two touchdowns in 2025, and he capped the season with a 163‑yard, six‑reception performance in the Alamo Bowl against TCU. Alongside him, emerging talents such as Makai Lemon, Ja’Kobi Lane, Julian Sayin and Dante Moore add depth and versatility, ensuring that USC's aerial attack remains dynamic and unpredictable.