How Three USC Trojans Could Impact Iowa's Big Ten Title Hopes

The USC Trojans are preparing for a pivotal 2026 season under head coach Lincoln Riley, with three standout players determining their trajectory in the Big Ten. Quarterback Jayden Maiava, offensive tackle Elijah Paige, and defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart are the core of this roster. Their ability to perform in crucial conference matchups will directly shape the Big Ten standings, the College Football Playoff race, and any potential clashes with the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Can Jayden Maiava Beat the Big Ten's Best?

Quarterback Jayden Maiava holds the key to USC's 2026 campaign. Competing in the Big Ten requires a signal caller who can deliver consistent performances and elevate the team in crucial matchups.

Last season, Maiava was remarkably efficient. He led the nation with a 91.2 QBR, throwing for 3,711 yards, 24 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while completing 65.8 percent of his passes. However, he struggled in critical moments against Illinois, Oregon, Notre Dame, and TCU, failing to secure wins that would have clinched a College Football Playoff spot.

Maiava has proven he can win big games, having led the Trojans to victories over ranked opponents like Michigan and Iowa. The challenge moving forward is consistency on the road and limiting turnovers. Seven of his 10 interceptions came in losses, directly costing USC a chance at the playoff. The transition to the Big Ten is no small feat for a West Coast program. Traveling to hostile environments like Iowa City requires immense mental toughness and disciplined football. If Maiava can protect the football and win tough road games, USC will be a formidable opponent for anyone in the conference.

Will Elijah Paige Protect the Trojans' Blind Side?

Offensive tackle Elijah Paige is essential to keeping Maiava upright and the offense balanced. In 2025, Paige appeared in seven games and was a dominant force when healthy. Injuries sidelined him for five games, including a critical road loss to Oregon where the Trojans were forced to shuffle their offensive line.

Health will be the defining factor for Paige in 2026. The Trojans face some of the most aggressive pass rush units in the country, including Oregon, Ohio State, and Indiana. Big Ten football is historically known for winning in the trenches. If USC wants to compete with physical teams like Iowa and Michigan, they need their big men up front to control the line of scrimmage. Paige has the talent to neutralize elite edge rushers, but his availability is the real concern. A healthy Paige gives the Trojans a fighting chance against the most physical defenses in the country.

How Jahkeem Stewart Transforms the USC Defense

Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart is poised for a massive role in 2026. As a freshman in 2025, Stewart was one of the most explosive players on the field. He recorded 18 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, one interception, and one fumble recovery. His knack for making impactful plays suggests he will be a primary difference maker for Gary Patterson's defense.

At 6 foot 5 and 289 pounds, Stewart possesses rare versatility. He can line up at nose tackle, defensive tackle, or defensive end. This flexibility is a massive asset in pass rush situations, allowing Stewart to hunt favorable matchups. It also gives Patterson the freedom to position the rest of the defensive line advantageously.

In a conference built on punishing running games, having a versatile defensive lineman like Stewart is a game changer. Big Ten offenses pride themselves on establishing the run, and Stewart's ability to disrupt the backfield directly counters that strategy. By forcing opposing offenses behind the sticks, he puts them in difficult third down situations, which plays right into USC's ability to attack the quarterback. If Stewart continues to develop his versatility, he could emerge as one of the best defenders in the Big Ten.

Why did USC struggle in big games during the 2025 season?

USC struggled in big games primarily due to turnovers and injuries. Quarterback Jayden Maiava threw seven of his 10 interceptions in losses, and the absence of key offensive linemen like Elijah Paige disrupted the team's rhythm against top opponents.

How does Jahkeem Stewart's versatility help the USC defense?

Jahkeem Stewart's versatility allows him to line up at nose tackle, defensive tackle, or defensive end. This flexibility enables defensive coordinator Gary Patterson to create favorable matchups across the line and force opposing offenses into difficult third down situations.

Did Jayden Maiava play well against Iowa?

Yes, Jayden Maiava played well against Iowa. He helped lead the Trojans to a key victory over the ranked Hawkeyes during the 2025 season, proving his ability to perform in crucial Big Ten matchups.