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Riley Defends QB Amidst USC's Ranks
13 Nov
Summary
- Coach Riley highlights QB's adaptation with young receivers.
- USC rebounded strongly by defeating No. 2 Ohio State.
- USC is now ranked No. 18 and in contention for championships.

USC football coach Lincoln Riley is vocal in his support for quarterback Jayden Maiava, particularly concerning his performance with a young and evolving wide receiver group. Riley pointed out the difficulty Maiava faces adapting to new and inexperienced players, suggesting he deserves more recognition for his efforts.
Riley acknowledged Maiava's struggles against Wisconsin but highlighted USC's subsequent dominant win against then No. 2 Ohio State. This victory significantly quelled doubts about Riley's coaching tenure.
With the team now ranked No. 18, USC is in strong contention for a spot in the Big Ten Conference Championship Game and has not been eliminated from the College Football Playoff race. The team's next challenge is a game against Indiana, a defending national champion, in Bloomington.
Riley expressed confidence that Maiava is prepared for a strong finish to the season.