RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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For another year, there is a lot of excitement surrounding another Lincoln Riley offense. USC has some returning players who should be in for big seasons, including starting quarterback Jayden Maiava. However, Maiava will also have to bring young playmakers up to speed to help this offense be even more explosive.
Here are my X-factors for the Trojans this season on offense:
Jayden Maiava, quarterback
All eyes will be on Jayden Maiava. How successful can he make this offense this season? Maiava does not have Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane anymore, two guys he could just throw the football to in any coverage. This season, it will be more on Maiava to get the most out of a younger supporting cast. With all the buzz surrounding Maiava, it appears he is more than ready to take on that challenge. While his supporting cast may not be as experienced, it is still a deep and super talented group. Many different, versatile skill sets are on this year's offense. He has an exceptional running back tandem, coupled with an experienced offensive line. It is only going to get better for Maiava. I believe last season was just the start, and he will be in for a big year.
Waymond Jordan, running back
Waymond Jordan is returning from injury, but it looks like he hasn't lost a step. He has had a great camp, and he is fully healthy. Jordan will be sharing the workload with King Miller, but I believe when it comes down to finishing drives, Jordan will be the back they look to. Jordan is a bruising and physical back, so when it is time to put the ball in the end zone, that is where Jordan will specialize. I think Jordan will post double-digit touchdowns and become a very pivotal asset for the Trojans offense.
Tanook Hines, wide receiver
The Trojans do not have Makai Lemon anymore, but that does not mean they do not have a good replacement for Lemon's impact. Tanook Hines showed shades of being that type of weapon last season in the bowl game vs TCU. 6 catches for 163 yards gave great confidence that he can step up and be the number 1 target for Jayden Maiava. Maiava and Hines already have a connection, and that will be seen all season long. I think Hines will be a big reason for Jayden Maiava having a big year and the Trojans' offense to be explosive again.
Terrell Anderson, wide receiver
The Trojans' offense has their big physical threat in Terrell Anderson. he will be a great complement to Tanook Hines and take some pressure off of him. He will also be a very secure target for Jayden Maiava and make the game easier for him. He posted 637 yards and 5 touchdowns last season at N.C. State last season. This year, he will outproduce that production and have 800 yards, becoming the outside weapon this offense needs to be successful.
Elijah Paige, offensive tackle
The offensive line will be one of the most experienced units on this year's team. Elijah Paidge leads that charge, being the most pivotal player on that unit. He has the talent to be one of the best linemen in college football. This will be a big year for him, and if the Trojans want offensive success, running behind him will give them their best shot.
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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Micah Huff's biggest X-factors for Trojans' offense in 2026 season
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