Maiava Bounces Back as No. 18 USC Edges Washington in Second-Half Rally
USC quarterback Jayden Maiava struggled early against Washington but regrouped in the second half to lead the No. 18 Trojans to a 25-21 victory. After completing just 12 of 18 passes for 143 yards with an interception in the first half, Maiava settled down and completed 9 of 17 passes for 102 yards and a touchdown in the second half. The senior credited returning to routine plays and maintaining composure as key to overcoming Washington's aggressive pass rush.
The Trojans faced significant roster challenges entering the matchup, with multiple receivers sidelined due to injury. Trent Mosely, the quarterback's primary target, missed his third consecutive game, while Mark Bowman and Corey Simms were also unavailable. This depleted receiving corps forced the team to rely on alternative options, including Tanook Hines, who returned from injury and became the leading receiver with five catches for 51 yards and a touchdown.
The running game proved instrumental in the second-half turnaround. King Miller led the ground attack with 18 carries for 81 yards, while Waymond Jordan added 11 carries and scored a touchdown. The balanced offensive approach helped reduce pressure on Maiava and contributed to USC's ability to sustain drives and control the game's tempo in the second half.
This victory may have significance for USC's divisional standing and bowl eligibility prospects for the season. The team's demonstrated resilience despite injury setbacks could influence recruiting perceptions and fan confidence heading into conference play. Additionally, Maiava's performance recovery may impact playoff seeding discussions if the Trojans continue winning, affecting which postseason opportunity the program receives and potentially influencing the career trajectory of the senior quarterback entering the professional evaluation period.