Jayden Maiava Compared to Caleb Williams by Rival Big Ten Coach Ahead of USC's Season

Jayden Maiava had a promising 2025 season as USC's quarterback, and there are aspects of his game reminiscent of a particular star who came before him.

"He has the ability to be a better runner than [head coach Lincoln Riley's] had," a Big Ten coach told ESPN's Adam Rittenberg. "He reminds me of Caleb [Williams] in some ways. He's a good passer, he can run, he can throw, he's accurate and I felt like he was pretty poised back there. Guys were teeing off on him, he got hit and came back and stood back up in the pocket and kept making plays. He definitely can do that."

Nobody expects Maiava to be the second coming of Williams, a top overall pick in the NFL draft who led the Chicago Bears to the playoffs last season. But Maiava had a strong 2025 season as the starter, throwing for 3,711 yards, 24 touchdowns and 10 interceptions while completing 65.8 percent of his passes and rushing for 157 yards and six scores.

"He did a really good job of managing the game, showed composure," a Big Ten defensive coordinator said. "He threw the ball really well. He's got that stature about him."