When the Nebraska football team takes the field on November 1 against the USC Trojans, they now have a much better idea what quarterback they'll be facing. Unfortunately, it's the same quarterback in Jayden Maiava who did just enough to beat them in the Rose Bowl last year.
During Big Ten Media Days, Nebraska coaches and players shed lots of light on their thinking. Fans of the Cornhuskers found out who might be starting at positions that will involve some fights. And as it turns out, fans also found out some of the players they'll be going up against in the Big Ten.
Jayden Maiava’s return forces Nebraska football to prep for familiar USC threat
It wasn't a huge surprise, but as part of the Big Ten Media Days announcements, USC head coach Lincoln Riley let it be known that for now, there isn't a quarterback controversy with the Trojans. Maiava will get first crack at the starting job after handling it quite well in 2024.
Maiava started USC’s final four games last season, including USC's win over Nebraska. Against the Huskers, the quarterback's first start, he completed 25 of 35 passes for 259 yards and 3 TDs while throwing just one interception. He also had 5 carries for 20 yards and a TD.
Maiava went 3-1 as a starter to end the season, which was enough for Riley to anoint him the starter for 2025. Another quarterback being considered was freshman Husan Longstreet.
During the same Big Ten Media Days event Rhule was asked about his rival coach.
"No matter what, Lincoln's gonna find the way to utilize his talent, score points on offense," the Nebraska football head coach said. "Obviously, they made a big jump last year on defense. It will be a great game (in 2025). They'll be a top-25 team, and we play later in the year -- I hope it's really cold. I hope it's at night, and I hope it's really cold."