QB Jayden Maiava uncovers massive reason why USC Trojans return was inevitable

USC Trojans quarterback Jayden Maiava made his team's immediate future a lot easier upon recently announcing to return to the program for next season.

Maiava's reasoning, though, could almost be described as old-school. While NIL valuations are a huge part of the sport these days, Maiava may have redefined what loyalty in sports should truly mean. Maiava revealed to reporters this past Friday that coach Lincoln Riley remaining part of the program was the biggest factor.

“Coach Riley. The staff, obviously, too, and my brothers," Maiava said.

Maiava's brief remarks were echoed by Riley earlier this fall when discussing how Maiava has grown as a starter.

"Jayden has done a really nice job leading our team and leading our offense this year," Riley told reporters. "Certainly one of the most improved players on our roster, grew a lot throughout the offseason, and has done a really nice job here in his second year with us. Just command of the offense, becoming a leader. He’s a guy that can make some plays with his legs as well, and just has really improved."

Maiava said he wants to write his own story without letting outside distractions get in the way.

“I’m really not [thinking long-term]," Maiava said. "I’m just kind of focused on one day at a time,” Maiava said. “Keeping level headed and keeping my focus where it needs to be."

Maiava's team will attempt to win their 10th game when they play the TCU Horned Frogs, with kickoff set for 9 p.m. ET Dec. 30.